rebounding readjusting and

Throughout the winter, the gym floor squeaks as the Central boys basketball team runs in a line to the rap song “Black and Yellow.” This team is known for their great sense of Trojan pride and teamwork, and they really had to rely on those values at the start of the season because the team didn’t initially play up to their ability. They faced constant challenges that brought them down for many days. “We started out really bad, but then we bounced back to accomplish our two major goals, winning the conference and the district,” says senior Miles Smith.

All of this year’s seniors showed great leadership by taking on many different roles that made the program so successful. “I would describe myself as a secondary leader on the team, but I think a lot of guys on the team looked up to me, especially out on the court,” pronounces Landon Miller. Not only did Miller score some clutch points, but he also was a humble and aware player for the team. Similarly, Smith started throughout the season and found his way by performing in most of the games. He showed his leadership by helping the younger players to teach them the game. “I think that over four years, it was easy for me to get a pattern of how Trojan Basketball needs to be played, so just helping people understand that more and more was my role,” states Smith.

Most of the guys on the team are close friends, which helps with the bonding aspect. “This year especially, it has been a great group of guys,” mentions Smith. From the stands, one could see the love for one another that they share. By constantly picking each other up, and trying to make the best out of a tough situation. “They showed good sportsmanship by working hard together and being positive with one another,” says Head Coach Ben Fischer.

This year’s team obviously accomplished something that past teams have not done in a while. “We won the conference and the district, [the] first time winning the district since 2007,” says Miller. With that, the Central community grew with so many eager fans coming together to watch this team perform.

These seniors will be well missed because of both their dedication to the sport and to each other after facing challenges in the beginning and not giving up. “The camaraderie that team sports brings out is really special, and watching them come together and achieve their goals is a lot of fun,” shares Fischer. It’s the hope of this year’s coaching staff and graduating seniors that the current team carry on the legacy and continue to bounce back in the years to come. //