Students are gearing up for another Panther Hoops season which begins on the 26th of January. Many students find that it is a great way to get involved and meet new people while having fun.

Senior Simon Yeley, a player on the team “Flight,” said, “The talent of our team will take us far, and our new players will be good for us, but it will be hard to learn how to work together.” David Jackson, another Flight player, claimed their team is getting revenge. Flight came close to winning the Panther Hoops championship last year – placing second – and they plan to take the trophy home this year.

Senior Akasha Burton plays on the team “Chill Guys,” and she said that “everyone on the team is a hard worker, as well as athletic, so we plan to show up and show out.” One thing she’s worried about is their team’s practice time, as many players are involved in other sports/activities.

A graduated senior, Tyler Sturbaum (also known as Clarence Thomas on the court), is a player on “Supreme Court.” When asked about the positives of this recreational basketball opportunity, Tyler said “Panther Hoops is a great opportunity for me to still have fun with my friends at school despite me having graduated earlier this year. I’ve had a great time playing these past three years, and I’m excited to do my last one with the best team yet. Court is adjourned #supremecourt #clarencethomas.”

Additionally, Jay True, a former assistant principal, returned from his job in the transportation department to continue running Panther Hoops (which he started in 2001-2002). Mr. True wanted to help students play basketball if they didn’t think they could make the school’s JV team, and there has been a consecutive turn-out in the number of teams.

All 21 of the teams plan to give their all this year, cheer each other on, and make some hoops.