Varsity basketball makes it to state tourney

By Jordan Oliver and Angie Arrant

Varsity boys basketball (21-7) made it to the State Championships at Hampton University where they lost to Albemarle High School (65-55).

It was the first time the Blue Devils had played at States since 2002.

“In reality we beat ourselves when we lose any game,” senior point guard Qion Gallon said.

Sophomore small forward Tyrese Jenkins said the Blue Devils’ defense struggled.

“We struggled with intensity for the first quarter as well as we weren’t playing as a team. Once the other team was ahead of us, we put our heads down,” Tyrese said.

Some players had hoped to win the game for something bigger than themselves or the school. They had hoped to get a win for senior Kivonte Sessoms who passed away the night before the big game.

“I wanted to do it for Vonte. I knew that he always cheered us on at our games, so it was all for him,” senior forward Kenneth Southerland said.

Despite the loss, the experience of playing on a bigger stage had benefits.

“The best part was just the atmosphere we got to play in. Most of us never played in front of that type of environment, and it was very beneficial to the guys on our squad who want to go play basketball at the collegiate level because a lot of coaches were there looking at them,” junior post Samond Pinchback said.

Varsity coach Andrew Lacey said the players had demonstrated their commitment to winning throughout the season.

“I think that teachers and the student body don’t realize how much work and time this group of guys put in six days a week during the school year to be where they are, and successful as they are,” Coach Lacey said. “Everybody wants to feel or be a part of the high school basketball team. The team has a very good commitment level.”

In addition to their commitment, the team developed a brotherly camaraderie.

“This team has gotten really close over the past year, so we just keep in mind that we are playing for each other, and that’s enough motivation for us all to shake back in our next game,” junior point guard Jason Wiggins said.

Playing in the State Championships took the team to a higher level.

“It was an honor. Not many get a chance to go,” Tyrese said.