Senior Jack Valasek and Team Manager Cole Walker reported that the primary focus of this year’s basketball season is team building and growth, along with winning. Their record at the time of the interview was 9-6. 

“We play good teams. We don’t get blown out,” Cole said. 

The boys’ basketball team recently lost junior Ian Olsen, who is now attending IMG Academy in Manatee County, Florida. Senior Isaiah Brown has also been unable to play due to an injury. 

“Me and Zai motivate the bench,” Cole joked. As the Team Manager, his responsibility is to support the team during practices and games. 

Jack and Cole are joined by captains Isaiah Riggle and Isaiah Brown and senior Eli Wiles. 

They described the team as close, although there are lots of new players this year. Jack is closest with the starting five. 

Jack’s favorite memories from playing basketball were the freshman year tournament in Maryland and the playoffs at Franklin Regional. His favorite part is winning because it “brings the team together.” 

Jack joined the team in third grade because his father, a current volunteer coach, played and because he’s always enjoyed the sport. 

Jack does not plan to continue playing basketball. He will be attending the University of Pittsburgh to major in finance. 

Next year, Jack and Cole agreed that the team is “gonna have a lot of growing to do.”

Jack emphasized the importance of working hard, having a positive attitude, and paying attention to the coaches. 

They encourage people to attend the Senior Night game on Feb. 9 against Plum Senior High School.