Last year, boys basketball had a record of 15-10. After beating Lawrence Central in their first sectional game, the team fell short to Cathedral.
This year, Damian “Dink” Keys and Robert “Rob” Walker are the senior duo that might take the team far into sectionals and possibly win the state championship.
“I have been preparing for the season by getting my body ready by conditioning and lifting weights in the off-season and mentally preparing for the tests and trials that are going to happen during the season,” Keys said.
They both play small forward and shooting guard, but Walker usually plays more at the shooting guard position, while Keys plays more at the forward spot. They both said they were ready for the games with high intensity due to the thrill and adrenaline rush it gave them.
“I’ve been working on my jumpshot and improving at the little things in basketball that will eventually pay off,” Walker said.
Last year, their roles were limited to a certain extent, but now their roles will be much bigger as they will be two of the main contributors on the team.
“My expectations for this season is to play my role to the best of my ability, if that's me averaging 20 points or 10 as long as it contributes to us winning,” Keys said. “The goal for the team as a whole is for us to compete for a state championship.”
Walker also wants to improve both individually and as a team. He hopes to shoot at least 40% for the season, meaning he will become one of the best shooters in the entire state of Indiana. He would also increase his percentage by 5%, which would be a huge leap.
“The goal that we have as a team should be to improve from last year’s record,” he said.
As these two take on larger roles on the team, they will be met with the responsibilities of being a leader. They bring different leadership styles to the team, which they think will provide a good balance for the group.
“I usually am a person that tries to lead by example and I am also very vocal when it comes to leading,” Keys said.
Walker has a different approach.
“I am mostly a laid back, chilled leader,” Walker said. “I really only speak up when we need to pay attention as a team and focus.”
According to head coach Criss Beyers, the two seniors have done a “great job” leading the team but will be held to high expectations to be vocal and help their teammates.
“I think we will be a team that has a lot of growth to look forward to,” Beyers said. “We will continue to get better if we trust the process.”