WICHITA, Kan.—
Looking forward to the 2012-2013 basketball season, the Northwest boys’ team is confident in their play. Despite losing eight seniors from last year’s team, senior Gavin Darr has positive thoughts after the first few weeks of practice.“I think we look pretty good,” Darr said. “We have people that can do their job at every position.”
The Grizzlies play Friday November 30 against North at Northwest to start the season. Not many people expect much from this inexperienced team, but Coach Chris Collins and the players have high expectations despite doubters. Their plan is to take the season game by game in order to compete as one of the top teams in the city.
“[Coach Collins] lets us know that we have to focus on one team at a time, and that North is the most important game because it’s the next game,” junior Brett Johnston said.
One specific benefit for the team is its continuity. Most of the players have played together for the past couple years so it is easy for them to understand each other’s abilities and work together.
“We know each other’s strengths and weaknesses,” Darr said. “We also know what someone is going to do before they actually do it and we are all on the same page.”
Progress for the team is steady and has potential to continue to develop. Friday’s game will determine the Grizzlies’ abilities with a completely new starting lineup and varsity roster.
“We just need to get better with each practice and game,” Johnston said. “If we do that, I think we will be in store for a good season.”
