BOYS BASKETBALL PREVIEW

By Delaney Baker

During last season, the Boy's Basketball team went 15-11 overall with an 8-4 conference record. They made it to the first round of the state playoffs but did not advance beyond the first round. Although four seniors graduated from last year’s team, this year’s squad features five seniors to fill those high tops. 

While the team consists mainly of upperclassmen: four juniors and five seniors, they also have incoming talent from the underclassmen. Most of the returning talent has improved in just a short couple of months. “The off-season workouts from the spring to the start of the season were tremendous, so many players have improved,” said Coach Walsh.

 Head Coach Mark Walsh, a Seton LaSalle alumnus from the class of 1985, has led the team for 13 years. His teams have been very successful over the years and he plans to continue to help these young athletes grow. Coach Walsh said, “Each year our goal is to compete for the section title and WPIAL title, as well as make a run in the State Playoffs.” 

Coach Walsh also talks about having very high expectations for this season. He believes there is enough talent that they will succeed, but also have some fun.

Over the summer, Coach Walsh hosted multiple open gyms for players to get extra reps before the season. This also allowed some new players to test their skills on the court and meet some of the older players. 

Junior Pat Weldon stated, “The open gyms were very beneficial to start developing chemistry with the team.” Getting to bond with players you've never worked with before can be challenging and these practices help chemistry grow faster.

Coach Walsh also said the Seton LaSalle community is very supportive of the boys. From the administration to the teachers and the student body, it helps the team feel like it's a special part of the community. The fans showing up to every home game helps them feel supported and all the energy they bring helps the players perform better.