Zaineh Saleh
Crimson Chronicle Editor-in-Chief
The boy’s basketball team experienced various challenges this season, with tough losses and resilient comebacks that ended with a 12-13 record and a fourth placement in the central league.
Earlier this season, the team battled many difficulties, including a completely new coaching staff, multiple player injuries, and issues with team chemistry.
“We struggled with a lot of injuries and people trying to fill up roles,” said Justin Gonzalez, the varsity captain. “During [the] second semester, we recovered a lot of our players and completely improved our team chemistry.”
The team’s overall improvement can be characterized by their performance against the Bernstein Dragons. Earlier this season, the Sheiks fell to the Dragons with a tough score of 77-27. However, last month, the Sheiks held a strong battle and lost to a close score of 50-46.
“My favorite game of the season was the Bernstein game,” said Maxwell Harvell, a senior on the varsity team. “Even though we lost, it was a good game for us and showed our capabilities and hard work.”
This season marked the first year Chord Hicks coached the varsity team. His coaching style has been described by players as organized and effective.
“Coach Hicks helped develop me into a better player,” said Maxwell. “He helped me reach my full potential and improve as a player.”
The Sheiks were able to display their strength as a team during their senior night last Monday against RFK. They secured a blowout victory with a score of 73-39, showcasing their resilience and full capabilities. The top scorers of the game were Jai’son Turner with 23 points, Justin Gonzalez with 17, and Jose Almanza with 11.
“I am proud of all the players,” said the assistant coach of the varisty team. “We want to point out that we are becoming a better team each day, and everyone is doing their part.”
The team ended their season with losses against Roybal 62-57 and University High 78-35 .
“I look forward to [next] season as we will be playing with almost the same team,” said Justin. “We will run it back to be a great and successful season.”
