The Boys JV basketball team is on an incredible journey guided by Head Coach Shirod and Assistant Coach Brodnax, and led by captains Shaw McGrath and Luke Lawrence. With a blend of veteran leadership, fresh talent, and unwavering determination, the team has grown leaps and bounds from last season. From memorable victories that showcase their improvement to a focus on confidence, teamwork, and preparation, this season is shaping up to be one for the books.

Shaw has stepped into his leadership role with grace, fostering connections and inspiring his teammates through hard work and dedication. Meanwhile, Coach Shirod’s emphasis on energy, discipline, and consistent effort has set the foundation for their success. With eyes on an undefeated season and a championship title, the team is not just playing to win—they’re playing to grow.

Read two interviews to dive deeper into the highlights, strategies, and lessons that are shaping this standout season.

Interview: Coach Shirod, Boys JV Head Coach

 Interview by Darren Robbins, Chair of Community Engagement 

What do you believe has been the biggest factor in your team’s success this season?

I believe the biggest factor in the team's success this season is in being over-prepared for game situations and working on those situations during practices. We work on specific things daily to improve our communication and rotations.

What values do you instill in your players to help them succeed both on and off the court?

Confidence! and Energy! The most dangerous thing in sports is confidence, the most contagious thing is energy. We also instill a blue-collar mentality. Not skipping any steps or taking any short cuts. Showing up and doing the hard work every single day. Finding value in all those things and executing them, helps our athletes be successful both on and off the court.

What are your goals for the team moving forward, and how do you plan to achieve them?

1. My first goal is to stay focused and not take our 1st place standing for granted, although we are in 1st place and currently undefeated if we start to lose focus we will allow teams to take advantage of that ultimately cost us games.
2. My second goal for the team moving forward is to finish the season strong with a championship.

What advice would you give to young players who aspire to be part of a successful basketball team?

For young players who aspire to be part of a successful team, I would encourage you to do these things:

1. Work on your game every day. (mastering your craft, one fundamental at a time, dribbling, passing, shooting, footwork, defense, rebounding)
2. Be a good teammate. (communicate in practice and be the kind of teammate you would want to have)
3. Be Coachable. (Don't talk back to your coaches, we see things from a perspective you may not understand yet and want to put you in positions to succeed)
4. Study your game on film. (Don't just watch your highlights, watch where you could have cut, passed, rotated on defense, etc.) 
5. Have fun! (Remember why you started to play, it's likely because you wanted to have fun. It's not supposed to feel like a chore, it's supposed to be fun, especially while you're young. If you love what you do, it never feels like work. This will be the reason you continue to play.)

Interview: Shaw McGrath, 10th Grade, Captain

Interview by Aquinnah McGrath, Social Media Coordinator

How would you describe this season compared to your first year on the team? What feels different or the same?

• Same: Still have the same coaches, which provides consistency.
• Different: New teammates and the chance to build fresh relationships.

What has been the most exciting or memorable game for you so far this season, and why?

• The game against Packer:
  • Last season, we beat them in the finals, but it was a very close and intense match.
  • This year, we won by a large margin, showing how much the team and individual players have grown and improved.

How has the team grown since last year, and what improvements have you noticed?

• Players are taking more shots and playing with greater confidence.
• We’re winning more games and staying consistent.
• Increased energy and enthusiasm on the bench, from both players and coaches.

As a sophomore with experience on the team, do you see yourself stepping into more of a leadership role this season? How has that felt?

• Yes, as Captain, I’ve been able to:
  • Give advice and guidance to my teammates.
  • Communicate directly with coaches about how we can improve as a team.
  • Build stronger connections with my teammates beyond just being a player last year.

What strengths do you think this team has that set it apart from others you’ve been on?

• The team is very diverse in skill sets:
  • Some excel in shooting, others in dribbling, and some are key to team morale and spirit.
• Everyone has a clear role, and we’re well-rounded, allowing every player to contribute to the team’s success.

How have new players this season adjusted to the team, and how have you helped build those connections?

• We welcomed a big freshman class this year, making sure no one felt left out.
• Some players started off shy and less confident, but through:
  • Team activities, practices, and games, we’ve built strong friendships that extend beyond basketball.
• Everyone now feels comfortable and confident on the court.

What skills or lessons from your first year on the team have helped you make a bigger impact this season?

Building closer relationships with the coaches has helped me understand how to improve personally and help the team grow together.

Are there any specific players, coaches, or strategies you credit for the team’s success so far?

Coaches Shirod and Brodnax as they’ve been with us for two seasons and are key to our team’s wins.

What part of your game are you most proud of this season, and how has it contributed to the team?

My hard work and dedication: It sets a positive example for the team, helping us improve together and perform better in every game.

What are your personal and team goals for the rest of the season, and how do you think you can help the team achieve them?

• Team goals: Stay undefeated and carry that momentum into the Championships.
• Personal goal: Continue leading by example to inspire my teammates and keep pushing for our best effort every game.