Concluding an impressive district run, the varsity boys lost by a final score of 58-42 against Springport in the district finals. This put them in the third spot in the Big 8 to conclude the year. Going into the game, the team felt confident and strong in their ability to win. With such a young team, the players, coaches, and fans could not be prouder of the boys. The boys had a great season and finished with a record of 18-7. But unfortunately, just like last year, they just fell short of regionals.
The boys started their season off with an impressive 7-0 record, but finished off going 11-7. They plan to do nothing less than work very hard to get further into the tournament.
“I was really excited and was looking forward to playing in the championship game,” Coach Nate Lott said.
Lott had excitement for the young team.
“It was the six freshmen’s first High school tournament, and I was excited for them to play in the championship game,” Lott said.  “I feel the whole team played hard and left everything they had on the floor against a really good basketball team.”
Lott wishes they could’ve shot better.
“I wish we could have had a great shooting night, because when we shoot it well, we are tough to beat,” Lott said. “This offseason will be a lot of working on our bodies and shots.”
Lott is ready to prepare his team for a tough summer and expects nothing but hard work.
“The June schedule will have anywhere from 42-50 games and a lot of team bonding with trips to Tawas City, Boyne, Big Rapids, Albion, a couple of shootouts at Stockbridge, and much more,” Lott said. I have always said the team and players are made in the offseason.”
Freshman Bradley Buddenborg felt strong going into the game, but knew they needed to play well.
“I definitely had confidence going into the game, but I knew we would have to shoot well and play good defense. Freshman Bradley Buddenborg said.
Bradley was super proud of his team and the way they played this season. “In the end, we tried our best, but it just wasn’t enough this year.”
“I think we had a great season overall. We went 18-9 and had four freshmen starting. So I’d say we did very well for being such a young team.” Bradley said.“This offseason, I am going to be playing AAU basketball, and I will be lifting to try to gain strength for next year.”