The Spartan basketball team returns to the court for the 2024-2025 season with high expectations. After a decent year last year, they look to win sectionals and return to States as they did two years ago.
The team lost five seniors, but returned a lot of key players and starters from last year. The captains of the team, seniors Jameson Stockwell, Ian Evans, Sal Weller, and junior Sam Beaton, are excited with the team they have and they are ready for the season.
The team went 9-12 last year losing to Jamesville-Dewitt in the sectional quarterfinal round 56-44. The team competed in many summer basketball games and was really excited to carry that team over to the winter season. Unfortunately, senior Trevor Fobare, a key returner was injured during the football season leaving him out of the basketball season.
“Our defense lost a great defender and we lost a great ball handler,” said Senior Ian Evans.
The team has high hopes to have a successful season.
“Our goal is to win a sectional chip,” said Evans.
“Some goals for the season are to win Sectionals and only lose a couple games,” said junior Geo Frattasio.
It helps when you have many returning players that have experience.
“It makes me feel better and makes me feel more prepared for the season and more coachable under coach Randall,” said Evans.
First year players are also prepared for the season despite less experience such as junior Geo Frattasio who looks to play a big role this season.
“I had a personal trainer and played AAU before with the team which helped prepare me for the upcoming season,” said Frattasio.
“The key to a great season is having chemistry and pass the ball around,” said Frattasio.
Not only are the players excited, the fans are also ecstatic for the season to begin.
“I am pumped. I think we are going to be awesome. I can’t wait to see Sam Beaton along with the other stars light up the court,” said fan Joey Mungari. “I think they will for sure have a winning record and even make a push for states. I have high expectations for juniors Sam Beaton and Owen Jassak.”
The student section looks to play a big role and make the environment at the games very enjoyable.
“It’s electric. The fans bring a lot of energy which I think helps the team play better. Ian Evans brings the boom for the fans,” said Mungari.
The team opens up their season at home against Camden December 11th at home before going on to back to back away games against Oneida and Utica Proctor.
The team opened up their season with a 70-61 victory against Camden. The team was led by Jameson Stockwell who scored 31 and Sam Beaton who scored 12 along with many assists.
