It happened fast. Okoro has changed from freshman impact player to sophomore star to junior who needs to assume even more responsibility for the young Lions - seemingly in the time it takes the speedy athlete to race down the court.
Almon has changed from unpolished sophomore to promising junior to senior whose leadership might be as important to his team as his rebounding, defense, and improved shooting touch.
"It seems like yesterday I was a freshman practicing with the JV," Almon said before practice Thursday in Gloucester's gym. "Now this is it. That's why we have to make the most of this year."
Few teams are likely to rely on two players as much as the Lions will rely on Okoro and Almon, especially early in the season. That's because they are the only two players on the roster with vast varsity experience, although junior point guard Justin Smith played a few meaningful minutes last season.
The 6-foot-2, 180-pound Okoro is one of South Jersey's most talented juniors. He averaged 12.5 points as a freshman and 17.5 points last season.
The 6-4, 180-pound Almon is a 12th grader who is just beginning to scratch the surface of his ability, according to Hagan. Almon averaged 11 points and 10 rebounds last season.
Both players are top athletes who should have the Lions in contention for the Tri-County Conference's Classic Division title and in the mix in the South Jersey Group 1 tournament.
But Hagan says his team needs more than just points and rebounds from its top two players. The Lions need leadership.
"I've stressed to them that it's their attitude, more than their skills, that are going to determine whether we win or lose," said Hagan, whose team opens the season Friday night at home against Tri-County Classic rival Clayton. "They have to realize that we go as they go, and that's in practice, in games, in every aspect of this team."
