During the winter sports season, boys’ basketball is front and center. Their games attract big crowds and for good reason. As of Jan. 25, the varsity team had an impressive record of 7-1 for the month, an exciting feat on top of multiple wins from November and December.

This year is different from past years due to COVID-19 and its impact on sports. When players are quarantined, they miss out on games and practices.  These players are susceptible to falling behind and a lack of opportunities to play. 

“You have to expect the unexpected,” varsity boys basketball coach Mike Cuff said. “I never know who will be able to play in the games until I get to school. Very frustrating for sure.”

Despite these setbacks, the 14-man team has still managed to shine. They have been able to grow closer through extra practices and activities on and off the court. 

“Our team has been able to bond through practicing hard and being there for each other when someone messes up,” sophomore Eric Vandendriessche said. “We also have things we do after school such as Jeremiah’s after practice.”

On Jan. 13, the team faced the Lake Mary High School Rams, making the game one of the biggest of the year. It ended with the Patriots on top with a score of 68-54.

“Lake Mary has always been our biggest rival and every time we play them we know it’s going to be a tough game,” Cuff said. “Our crowd that night was awesome. The boys absolutely love playing in front of a loud crowd.”

The win against the Rams was a contributing factor to arguably one of the greatest achievements of the season so far. It played into a 5-game winning streak the team had in early January.

“The boys have really taken interest in playing defense and it’s showing on the court,” Cuff said. “Always fun when we are on a winning streak for sure.”

With only a few games left in the season, the team will continue to strive and push themselves towards more wins.

“We are not as selfish this year,” Vandendriessche said. “We all play together for a common goal.”