After a successful season last year, the boys’ basketball team is back on the court, and ready to dominate and showcase their skills. Making it all the way to the Bergen County Jamboree last year, the Tigers are determined to build on their achievements from last season and make it even further. Losing five key seniors from last year is definitely a challenge for the team, but that makes the team ready to rise to take over and make a mark this season.
Reflecting on last season’s challenges, Coach Koehler identified key areas for improvement: “If we create shots a bit on our own, we will understand about setting screens, play tough defense, run when we can, that will be very good.” The boys are determined to get stronger to defeat top contenders.
As said by Coach Koehler, the boys are not safe. They are not guaranteed to walk onto the court and win every game. The truth behind it is being in the right mindset and pushing hard, and that is what will lead the boys to victory. That was exactly what the boys needed to succeed at the Jamboree, which is a single elimination tournament in which only the top 24 teams in the county make it. The Tigers last year were seeded number 20, and ended up beating the number 13 and number four seeds.
A lack of offensive creation against strong defenses proved particularly problematic challenges last year. “Injuries disrupted our ability to create scoring opportunities,” Koehler explained. This season the team must prioritize skills such as setting screens and tough defense, which will be crucial for the season.
Many teams focus on skill more than attitude and effort. Jake Yanofksy (’25) believes that effort and attitude are more important. “If we all give it our all every game, we will win,” Jake Yanofsky said. “We have enough talent and skill so effort is our main factor in dictating the amount of games we win this year.” This highlights the importance of a strong work ethic and a positive mindset in achieving success, showing that even the most experienced and skilled teams can benefit from prioritizing effort and attitude.
The importance of team chemistry is also needed to bring the team to victory. Coach Koehler believes that the players have developed a solid bond, which he views as a significant advantage, “I think the guys get along really well. I think it’s something that we all see some of our weaknesses, and if we work on that and get that to not be a weakness, we could be exceptional,” he noted. With the loss of the five seniors last season, the ability to form new leaders and maintain a supportive atmosphere is necessary.
Long seasons can be grueling, but the coach finds excitement in strategizing against opponents. “It’s fun figuring out how to outplay teams that we’re not expected to beat,” he said. This mentality creates an atmosphere within the team that gives them even more confidence, which can inspire players throughout the demanding season.
Expectations for the boys basketball team are higher than last season. Coming off a spectacular season, the boys are ready to make it further in the competition. With many returning players, the team is poised to build on last year’s success. Coach Koehler is set on leading the boys to victory. “Well, I’m very excited about the basketball season. I think that we could be very good,” he said. “If the guys buy into the defense, hustle, buy into their role, …that’s a huge thing. And then I think we could do very well.”
As the season approaches, the team is prepared for the new opportunities and challenges that come ahead. With the right mindset and the commitment to grow as better players, the Tigers are ready to take on their contenders, aiming not just for victory but a memorable season as well.
