After starting the season 5-0, the varsity boys basketball team faced some tough competition, leading to multiple close losses. However, on Jan. 13, the team defeated Cypress Creek 77-52, improving their overall record to 10-7. 

Coach Joshua Kohn believes that the recent losses, although not ideal, have played a positive role in the team’s development. 

“All five losses have been against really good teams,” Kohn said. “When you play good teams, you get better. We have seven new players, and they need time to gain experience. To me, it has all been good.”

Sophomore Ewan Winkler credited Tuesday night’s success to a strong mindset, clear communication and composure on the court, allowing them to cruise by easily.   

“We try to tell ourselves to be calm,” Winkler said. “Other teams try to pressure us.” 

Senior Greg Weatherington, who led the team with 17 points and five assists, agreed that composure and communication are important, especially when the team is trailing. He also identified a recurring issue leading to past losses: “Shot-making and shot selection.”  

Winkler said another issue in past losses has been players trying to boost their stats or playing “hero” ball, rather than playing as a team. He also stated that in their game against Cypress Creek defense played a major role. 

“We need to start playing more as a team and playing to win, playing less hero ball, and make sure we are not playing to boost our stats,” Winkler said. 

Additionally, a new practice schedule has helped the team. Typically, they stick to half-court drills during practices, but as of late, they have been doing full-court drills, helping them gain more exposure to game scenarios. 

 Next up, the team will travel to Lake Buena Vista High School on Jan. 16. Following that, they have a home game on Jan. 20 against the Lake Mary Rams at 7 p.m. Tickets are sold on GoFan.