Basketball Keeps Hopes High With Upcoming Season

Alexa Reed

Geoffry Vrevegood a returning varsity starter playing in the Campo Verde game his junior year.

Coming off of an inconsistent 16-11 season, the men’s basketball team is eager to make improvements from last year and challenge their contenders for a run at the state championship title. A refreshing motto of “Win” has been instilled by head coach Joseph Babinski. This has implanted a new seed of determination into his players that fuels their desire for success.

Morale is at an all time high on the team. “We are feeling very confident about the upcoming season,” explained senior guard Jordan Howard. “We have all the pieces of being a state contender; this could be Perry’s best year as a basketball squad.”

With four returning starters, experience is not a concern for the team. “We have returning forwards and centers who should make more of an impact this year,” stated junior forward Brandon Bidese, who received some experience as a sophomore on varsity last year. “They can add versatility to the offense.”

An offense that looks to shock its opponents. With quick guards and explosive inside players , Perry’s high octane offense promises energy and excitement.

With the AIA revising every sports’ schedule, Perry’s upcoming season proves to be tougher than past years. Games against defending state champions Corona Del Sol and basketball powerhouses Chaparral and Gilbert look to knock the Pumas off their state goals. CUSD rivals Basha and Hamilton both promise to be tough games, while the Chandler game will host a reunion with former Perry basketball coach Mark Nold.

“We want to win,” stated Bidese. “And we have all the right tools to make that happen.”