Varsity Boys’ Basketball closed out its season with a mixed record of 10-17. The team is entering a defining chapter built upon both success and trust.
After stepping into the head coaching role in December, Head Coach Elijah Gaines brings values that will lead the team to flourish as a team and their performance. For him, success extends beyond the scoreboard.
“Success is growth,” Gaines said. “From the beginning of the season to the end, as long as there’s growth, then we’re successful. It’s not necessarily about wins and losses.”
This mindset set the tone early. Gaines believes communication, discipline and character are essential both on and off the court.
That mentality has already begun to resonate throughout the team, especially among its younger players.
Sophomore Chris Longo describes the environment as one that encourages “working together and collaborating with teammates,” as varsity basketball calls for constant communication and trust. The captains are a major part in communication and guiding younger players. Senior captain Carson Ellis emphasizes the importance of unity and team chemistry.
“We all get along really well, and we trust each other,” Carson said. “If we all play together and listen, we have the potential to be one of the top seeds in the league and make a run in the playoffs.”
Beyond chemistry, this team’s defining strengths have been its energy and senior leadership.
“I see a lot of energy across the whole team. Everyone brings high energy on the bench and on the court, and there’s a strong connection between teammates,” Senior Nathan Dagger said.
Nathan and other seniors contribute to his team’s discipline and momentum by setting examples for the younger players on how to collaborate and push oneself, qualities that align with Coach Gaines’ emphasis on growth and accountability.
Carson sees this season as an opportunity to mentor younger teammates on the pace and expectations of varsity basketball, empowering them to step confidently into future leadership roles.
“It’s definitely been a shift going from one coach to another, but we’ve been under Coach Elijah for the past couple of years. I’ve been able to grow and apply what I’ve learned over the past three years,” Carson said. “If you have a problem you want to talk about with a teammate, be direct. Give constructive criticism by actually giving insightful information on how to improve and be better.”
As the season comes to a close, Boys’ Basketball is focused not only on competing at a high level, but on cultivating a unified vision as a team. Players support one another on and off the court reflects the foundation built by Gaines.
Nathan highlights this collective mindset and positive attitude saying, “Everyone brings such high energy on the bench and on the court, and there’s a strong connection between teammates.”
