The onset of the winter season signals the commencement of the boys’ basketball team at our school in their bid to reclaim the State Championship title. As Brady Dunlap ’23 and Jacob Huggins ’23, prominent players, transition to college, there exists a collective optimism in the team’s potential to once again emerge victorious.
Their season debuted with a resounding 76-31 victory against Palos Verdes High School on Nov. 14, setting the stage for a string of triumphs, including commanding wins against Palisades High School, Carlsbad High School, and Polytechnic High School, each culminating in an impressive 30-point lead or more.
Head Coach David Rebibo has expressed satisfaction at the team’s performance, an outcome that defied his initial expectations of more contested games. He stresses the paramount importance of continuous improvement, attention to detail, and unwavering dedication, irrespective of the game’s outcome. This emphasis on rigorous evaluation and commitment to hard work is evidently bearing fruit.
Forward Nik Khamenia ’25 concedes that maintaining consistency as a team stands as the foremost challenge for the season, demanding resilience in the face of fluctuating circumstances. Sustained focus and prioritisation of health emerge as pivotal needs as they gear up to confront closely-ranked opponents such as Sierra Canyon High School and Notre Dame High School in the subsequent weeks.
A prestigious invitation beckons the team to compete in the Hoophall Classic in Massachusetts, featuring an assembly of the nation’s leading high school basketball teams. Coach Rebibo acknowledges the requisite strategic adjustments prompted by travel and stiffer competition, yet remains steadfast in the belief of the team’s capability and resilience.
Guard Trent Perry ’24 prophesies an intense tussle against Perry High School in Arizona as one of the most formidable encounters of the season. Overcoming a sluggish start, the team rallied to secure a hard-fought 61-53 victory. Perry and his comrade, Guard Robert Hinton ’24, credit their collective teamwork and composure for guiding them to a remarkable comeback.
In tandem with the spotlight on Dunlap and Huggins, Rebibo underscores the invaluable contributions of wing Christian Horry ’24, who has evolved into a pivotal leader for the team. Seniors Josh Engelberg ’24 and Niccolo Kalischer-Stork ’24 also earn commendation for their competitive spirit and indispensable depth to the team, underscoring their significance.
Hinton underscores the robust chemistry within the team, both on and off the court, which fosters a positive and unified environment that transcends the confines of the gym.
As the season progresses, the boys’ basketball team’s mettle will be tested by more formidable challenges. Nevertheless, their determination, resilience, and formidable camaraderie stand as the bulwarks that position them to confront any adversity in their relentless pursuit of back-to-back championships.