Mays boys basketball coach Floyd Mack knew this season would be tough.

 After losing nine seniors, including Colin Cook, Kendall Leslie,  Devarick Houston, Homer Causey, Aryay Strong,  Eric Clemons Jr., and Derrick Long, Mack knew the team was in rebuilding mode.

Only six players, Bryant Lawrence, Samuel Grundy, Delante Warner, Jonathan Williams, Ayinde Russel, and Jaylen Smith returned.

Of the returning players, only three had any varsity experience, Mack said. The Raiders also have five freshmen.

``We had three returning seniors who didn’t get a whole lot of time last year,’’ said Mack, the Raiders coach for the past 15 years. ``It’s just like they’re starting from scratch, especially in pressure situations.’’

The Raiders have struggled to a 5-12 start with a record of 3-7 in region play.

In its last eight games, Mays has gone .500, posting a 4-4 record after a 1-8 start. 

``They’ve gain some experience,’’ the coach said. ``The chemistry has gotten better, and they’re just maturing, hopefully, at the right time.

The Raiders have upset three strong teams, Lithonia, Alatoona and Dunwoody.

``Everyone thought they would blow us out,’’ Mack said.

This year’s team doesn’t have the size of some Raider squads in recent years and is relying on speed, athleticism, and discipline.

Last year, Mays had 10 players taller than 6’0, including Cook who is 6’8.

Last year’s team entered the season with high expectations, after finishing the previous season as state runner-up.

Cook was an All Region performer was surrounded by a line-up of talented and experienced players, including Strong, Causey, Leslie and Houston.

This year, the team’s freshmen are playing a role, the coach said.

``We have five freshmen,’’ said Mack. ``But they are five good ones.’’

Even though the record doesn’t reflect the team’s growth, Mack is still confident the Raiders have a shot at the state playoffs as the Region 6AAAA tournament opens on Feb. 13.

We want them to finish strong and play hard,’’ Mack said. ``There is still a chance for the playoffs.’’

The region favorites are 2-time defending state champion Miller Grove and Southwest DeKalb. Behind those Big 2, a playoff slot is fair game for everyone, Mack said.

``We have as good a chance as anybody to make the playoffs, even in a rebuilding year,’’ said Mack, who won state championships in 2004 and 2005. 

Last year’s team reached the quarterfinals of the state playoffs before losing by a point in overtime.