For defending Class 3A state champion Milford Mill boys basketball team, last year's success "has become the elephant in the room -- a good elephant to have around," said coach Albert Holley.

With expectations at a noticeably higher level this season, Holley said it has been his team's hard work that has them back at the state tournament. That's where the positive senior influence of guard Isaiah McCray and forward Tevin Hanner come into play. The No. 3 Millers (23-2) will take on Friendly (23-3) in Thursday's state semifinals set for 3 p.m. at the University of Maryland's Comcast Center.

As for McCray and Hanner, they don't come with staggering numbers -- just consistent ones across the board. McCray averages 10.5 points, four rebounds, 2.5 assists, two steals and 1.5 blocks. Hanner also is at 10.5 points with 7.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.5 steals and 2.5 blocks. Holley is most impressed with the intangibles his two standouts bring to the court each time out.

"They bring winning," he said. "Everywhere they go they just win. They know how to win and have won everywhere they've played, so you put your trust in them when the game starts and take your chances."