Boys Varsity Basketball Overcomes Injuries in Competitive Season

The UHS Boy’s Varsity basketball team has had a challenging, yet successful season so far, facing the obstacles of a new coach and going against harder teams. 

    Coach David Bailey took the responsibility as the new head coach for the team, this being his first year at University. “It feels great stepping in as the boys basketball coach here at University High School. It is challenging because we lost 3 starters in December to injuries. While this was disappointing for everyone, the rest of the team has worked really hard to have a winning team. They have taken advantage of their opportunities as we prepare for the district tournament next week,” said Coach Bailey. 

 The UHS vs. Titusville game on January 26th, came out successful for the boys, winning 56-51. “Titusville was a pretty far drive but it helped us get locked in. When we got there our main focus was on winning. We had 3 JV players that stepped up and played really good, giving us a leading stretch in the third quarter. It helps when we communicate and know what we need to do individually and as a team. If we continue like this we could win a lot of games,” said senior Bermhan Pyram. 

   On Friday January 27th, the basketball team fought a well-played game against Ocoee on their senior night, losing 78-70. Aside from losing, many of the players enjoyed their Senior Night, reminiscing on their memories of being on the team for multiple years. “Senior Night was surreal, having all the memories of 4 years of being on the basketball team between JV and Varsity. I was more than grateful to have had the opportunity to play and even more grateful having the younger guys with us as well,” said senior Lucas McMillion.

     Having a 10-11 ratio season, the boys were up against tough competition this year. “The most challenging team we have had to play is Winter Park because of the way they play the game and connect with each other on the court. I feel like as a team we seem to fold when we feel like we are under a lot of pressure,” said senior Paul Doghor. 

  This season however was a year of growth for the team, especially for rising upperclassmen. “One thing I learned this season was how to play more with a team because of getting moved up from JV to varsity.” said sophomore Braylen Jones, one of many players anticipating next year’s season as a chance to improve their abilities.