The Star Valley Braves traveled to Casper on the weekend of March 13th, hoping to secure their first 4A basketball title in school history and their first basketball championship since the 2012-2013 season. Entering the tournament as the 4th seed from the west, they faced a tough opening matchup against the top-seeded team from the east, the Sheridan Broncs, on Thursday night. The Braves finished the season with an overall record of 13-11, including a 5-1 record against western opponents.
Before heading to the tournament, Bryson Nield discussed what he was most looking forward to and how he planned to contribute to the team’s success. He said, “I’m excited to spend one last weekend with all the boys. It’s been a long and challenging season, and we’re all ready for this. We’ve prepared well, and I’m excited for that part of it. As for my role in helping us win, I need to play strong defense, and I think we have a good chance to get it done.” Nield, a two-year varsity player, has been an impactful presence on the court for the Braves.
This season, the Braves adopted a new motto—One Team, One Mission—which they proudly displayed on their warmup long-sleeve shirts before every game. This new mindset fueled their determination as they approached the challenges of the state tournament, an opportunity they had been preparing for all year. Their final mission began Thursday night.
During the fourth quarter of their opening game against Sheridan, the Braves remained competitive, trailing by just a few points. They fought hard, hoping to gain momentum and take the lead. However, when they needed a break, the ball didn’t bounce their way. Late in the game, both senior Bryson Nield and junior Cooper Lancaster fouled out, leaving the Braves struggling to keep up. The Broncs capitalized on the shift in momentum and pulled away with a 55-47 victory, sending Star Valley to the consolation bracket. The loss was a heartbreaking blow, especially for the seniors, as their championship hopes were dashed in the first round.
The following day, Star Valley faced Kelly Walsh for the fourth time this season. The Trojans had also suffered a first-round loss, falling to the eventual state champions, Campbell County, which placed them in the consolation bracket alongside the Braves. Earlier in the season, Star Valley had won two of their three matchups against Kelly Walsh, but in the regional tournament, junior guard Mason Eager hit a buzzer-beater to give the Trojans the win. Friday’s rematch was another tough battle, but the Braves came up short once again, falling 57-48. With the loss, their season came to an end.
Looking ahead to next season, the Braves aim to return stronger and more confident, led by a group of experienced seniors determined to make another run at the state tournament
