The basketball team competed in two early-season tournaments on December 11-13th and December 18-20, gaining valuable experience and momentum as the season begins. After six games, the team currently holds a 3–3 record, a result that reflects both growth and areas still being developed. While the wins showed the team’s potential, the losses highlighted lessons that will help shape the rest of the season.

Following the first two tournaments, senior Will Linford shared insight into what he has learned about the team so far. “I’ve learned the togetherness that we all have, and when we all have the same goal, we can be very successful,” Linford said. He remains optimistic about the season ahead while acknowledging room for improvement. “I think we played two good tournaments but still have some work to do,” he explained. Looking ahead, Linford believes the season has a strong outlook. “I think the rest of our season can be very successful if we keep working hard.”

Head coach Matt Shumway also reflected on the team’s early performance and goals. According to Shumway, the objectives set before the season began have not changed. “Our goals remain the same. We want to improve each day, which we refer to as ‘stacking days,’” he said. In addition to daily improvement, the team is focused on bigger achievements. “We also want to win a regional championship as well as win a state championship.”

Coach Shumway emphasized that success will depend on unity and selflessness. “The biggest key for this team is being willing to sacrifice for each other and play together as one on both ends of the court,” he said. As the season continues, the team will look to build on what they’ve learned from these first tournaments, using togetherness, hard work, and shared goals to push forward.