As winter rolls around, the boys’ basketball team is ready to play. Behind senior captains Riley Miller and Joe Dunn, the team hopes for a State appearance. With a tough schedule that includes Wayzata, DeLasalle, and Columbia Heights, the team will look to use these games as a way to get ready for their difficult Section.

This year, the team lost their top three scorers and three seniors. However, this gives everyone the opportunity to contribute to the team and step up. “I am very confident that we have guys who are more than ready to step up and take on some extra work,” Dunn said.

Even though they have lost some main key players, they have many returning seniors, and the team has become well-rounded team with bench production. They have also gained some new players they believe have the potential to make up for those losses. “I think the team will be pretty good this year. Although we lost some key pieces, we have a lot returning guys ready to step into bigger roles,” Miller said.

In the offseason, the team had been training and preparing for the upcoming season. They have VBAP, which is a camp that focuses on strength, conditioning, and basketball skills. Also, starting this year, the players have used 8th hour wellness to train with Coach Snell— whose workouts include running, lifting, and pilates. During the seasons, the players get out early and use this time to practice or watch film. “The offseason workouts have been great, I feel like our team has been in the best shape ever going into a season,” Miller said.

The team’s goal this year is to win their Conference, and win their Section, resulting in a State appearance. However, the team knows it will be difficult. DeLaSalle, a fierce rival and a talented team, will be their toughest game. “Our Section proves to be the toughest in Class 4A year after year, but I think we have the talent and chemistry to compete,” Miller said.

There is not one player that will help them achieve their goals, but rather, the team as a whole. “Riley and I being the captains, and all the seniors, we are the leaders on the team, and this is our last chance to play here. We’ve got to all step up and work together,” Dunn said.