WICHITA, Kan.—
In preparations for the upcoming basketball season, the Trinity Academy Knights already know what to expect this season. This year is quite unique compared to others based on the height of the team.
“Our tallest guy is 6’1”,” said head coach Steve Miller. “So I know they’re [opposing teams] probably gonna try and pound it down on us on the post. We’re basically a team full of guards.”
The team is preparing for a tougher year due to the differences in height.
“We realize that we are short this year and that we have to work harder than others to compete,” said sophomore Matthew Jones. “A saying that I always grew up knowing was from Michael Jordan. ‘Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard,’”
Miller knows how to deal with his smaller team and get them to the level they want to be at.
“[We will] try to work on the fundamentals, drill work, help out on the low post, and play as a team and really try to help one another,” said Miller.
Jones thinks that having a coach like Miller can improve skills to help the Knights win.
“Mr. Miller is an awesome coach,” said Jones. “He knows how to encourage and criticize you to make you better. He cares and believes in all of us. Having a coach that believes in you makes a big difference in the game.”
Despite the main issue of the season, there is optimism through coaches and players.
“I think the sky is the limit for our team this year,” said Jones. “We know we have talent to go as far as possible. It all depends on our work ethic and mental preparation.”
“There’s a bond and chemistry there. I’m really pleased with their effort in practice. They come to play hard and they’re very competitive,” said Miller.
Even with a huge weakness like having a smaller team, the Knights will do their best for the season.
