Varsity Basketball Storms Barclays

Maxwell B. ’20 (#24) drives the ball at the Barclays Center against Brooklyn Friends, Nov. 26, 2019. The Panthers won the game, 42-41. (Al Pareira)

The varsity basketball team is making good on their promise to defend their title as league champs with an impressive start to the season, winning the LREI tip-off tournament as well as the annual Barclays Center game.

“This year, our goals are to repeat as NYCAL champions and to return to NYSAIS,” Coach Michael Cohn said.

This season’s Panthers have hit the hard court running with a record of 2-0 in league play and 5-2 overall. Most of the players are returning seniors with the experience and leadership needed to compete in the postseason. Alexander L. ’20 and Jesse S. ’20 are the captains of the team. Alexander, in his fifth year as a starter, and Jesse, a four year member, are experienced role models for their new teammates.

“Our seniors have been a great group to learn from this year,” Coach Cohn said. “Alex has really brought the team together.”

Alex has committed time during the offseason to improve his skills. This work is paying off as he is averaging 26 points per game and is striving to reach the 2,000 point club.

“It is important that everybody brings intensity to each game to help us win at the highest level,” Alex said. The

Panthers’ mindset is different as they take to the court this year, having won the regular season and post-season championships last year.

“The chemistry, spirit, and mentality of the team have been great so far,” Jesse said. “The main difference from last year is the mindset: last year we were the underdogs, this year we are defending the title.”

Newcomers to the varsity squad have been challenged to maintain the focus and energy demanded by the more experienced players.

“This is a whole new level,” Matthew B. ’23 said, in his first year on the team. “To keep up with the team’s intensity, even during practice, is tough. I have learned so much, and I am excited to pass it down next year.”

Through the team’s success, there has been a strong wave of support from fans, including students, faculty, and alumni. At the Barclays Center game, the enthusiastic voices of the ‘Panther Zoo’ could be heard throughout the cavernous arena.

“It was great to see some of the young alumni along with students across all grades, faculty, and friends,” Wes ’20 said, who attended the Barclays game. “I enjoyed seeing the whole community come together to support the basketball team.”

Overall, the team hopes their hot start will fuel them throughout the long season as they seek to become back-to-back NYCAL champions for the first time in 10 years.