The winter sports season is underway and the boys basketball team has started off with an 0-3 record for season games. 

This year, seven of the 13 boys have returned to the varsity team, including Trenton Oglesby, a notable returnee. Even though some things have remained the same, like the boys’ love of basketball, there have been many changes.

“This season there weren’t as many people compared to last year,” junior Nikhil Contractor said. “Last year and the year before that there were quite a lot of people.”

Even though the turnout for tryouts has changed, the boys basketball team is still confident. Many of the boys have trained and practiced throughout the summer to work on individual skills. The drive to do the extra training and to have the extra practices comes from the team’s love to play basketball. They want to improve for themselves but also for the fans. With last year’s record being 1-13, this year’s team is looking forward to improving their record.

“I think it’s improved a lot,” Contractor said. “We’ve gotten better players, our coaches improved with new drills and new plays, and in general, all of us in the basketball program are excited to get back on the court.”

Current practices are going well for the players. The team has gotten new jerseys that they are excited about. They also seem to have a new found energy and dedication to the game. Each practice they come with energy, they want the best possible outcome to happen as much as possible.

“I feel like people are more excited and actually dedicated to this season,” junior Jaiden Jones said. “Everyone on the team has the same goal — to win.”

As far as for this season’s future, the team is optimistic about winning. With all of the hardwork and dedication this season many on the team are already planning to bring more wins and even more excitement to the student section. Most importantly, they boys just want to have fun.

“I like being with my friends and having fun,” junior Brandon Reale said. “I also like to win and compete.”