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And despite falling 46-35 to Walt Whitman Thursday in a Montgomery County Liberty Conference Summer League at Clarksburg, the Patriots' court general still considers the contest and the league an invaluable tool.
"Basketball players are made in the summer time," Manley said. "Teams are made in the winter."
Mediocre, possibly sub par, that's how many would describe TJ's winter season. The Patriots recorded ended at14-12 after falling to Baltimore County's Dulaney, 67-52 in the Class 4A North quarterfinals. They finished fourth in the Monocacy Valley Athletic League's Chesapeake Conference and graduated six.
Leading 21-18 at the half, TJ fell victim to a 15-3 Whitman run midway through the second half. Victor Walker paced his side with 11 points while Brian Healy added nine.
"We need to look at what works and try to get better," Manley said.
Though disappointed with the result, TJ showed flashes of strong performance. Jacob Parks snagged an inbounds for an easy put back early in the second half. Moments later Healy and Walker combined for a textbook give and go, with Healy finishing the play.
Arguably the most important moment of Thursday evening did not occur on the court, but rather on the patio outside Clarksburg's gym. Manley spoke to the eight players in attendance for no less than 30 minutes. Commitment and teamwork were discussed as phrases such as "battle- tested" were tossed around.
Summer leagues are the first step in atoning for the sins for yesteryear. TJ has participated in two this season, and also participated in a tournament at Messiah College in Pennsylvania. Unofficial open gyms and weight lifting sessions are also scheduled.
The Patriots finished at 8-2 in Frederick and is currently 5-6 in Montgomery County. The Patriots' playoff destiny is yet to be determined.
Though he wants his players to log significant hours playing and lifting, Manley is conscious of, and intents to avoid burnout.
Midsummer pails in comparison and does not compare to midseason when it comes to form. Rough around the edges, Manley sticks by his decision to travel south on Interstate 270.
"I think it's a great league," Manley said. "Part of my decision was to play better competition and different teams and see different guys. I think that benefits everyone."