Thompson High School boys’ basketball coach Patrick Davis knew the Warriors would have a learning curve early in the 2009-2010 season after losing four starters to graduation from last season’s Sweet 16 team.

Davis saw exactly how much room his players have to improve, as Thompson fell Thursday night 58-45 at defending Class 6A champion Vestavia Hills.

“The biggest thing is our lack of experience is very evident,” Davis said. “We have very few players with any varsity basketball experience, and it’s showed so far. We’ve got a chance to be good.”

Jaylon Jones led the Warriors (1-1) with 11 points in the loss. Kenny Johnson and Josh Neville added nine points each. Bernard Smith finished with eight points.

The Warriors had a difficult time containing Vestavia Hills center William Truss. Truss, a 6-foot-6, 250-pound mammoth in the post, dominated the smaller Thompson squad and finished with 19 points and 20 rebounds.

Thompson did feature it’s trademark stifling full-court pressure, which led to 29 turnovers by the Rebels. The Warriors struggled from the field, making only 15-of-56 field goals in the game.

Vestavia Hills 41, Thompson 32 (Girls)

KaDeisha Stowes led the Warriors (0-2) with 10 points. Asia Anchrum added seven points and Courtnie Moncrief finished with five points.