By Addy Barber – Staff Reporter

The Law boys basketball team has been working hard throughout the season to improve their game play on all fronts. 

After having to adjust to losing eight seniors last season, the Lawmen are currently 3-11 and are still hoping to qualify for the state tournament. The three varsity captains are seniors Liam Valvo and Tanner Matchett and and junior Cam Upchurch. 

“The goals for the team was to get into the playoffs and make a playoff push with a young roster,” Matchett said. “We are still working each day to get towards that goal in practices and games.”

As captains, Matchett, Valvo, and Upchurch set an example of leadership and sportsmanship for the newer players.

“The other captains and I lead by example setting higher standards with work ethic, dedication, and sportsmanship,” Upchurch said. “We help inspire and motivate our teammates especially during challenging situations, and hold ourselves and teammates accountable for their performances.”

Matchett leads the team through hard times by staying positive and cheering on his teammates.

“To lead a team, there are a few things that go into it,” Matchett said. “To list a couple is experience, leadership, positivity, and being vocal.”

Matchett has been a member of the basketball team since his freshman year, and will miss the family bond the team has made.

“The bond the team has is something that will never be broke,” Matchett said.

Assistant Coach Mr. McPartland notices how much the captain’s contribute during practice.

“The captains lead stretches at the beginning of every practice and make sure that our guys are doing the little things everyday,” McPartland said.

Valvo, who is out for the season due to a shoulder injury, is wishing he could be out on the court helping the team. 

“It sucks when I see stuff on the bench that is so hard to see while you’re playing,” Valvo said. “I just wish I could go out there and help in any way.”

Although he can not play, he still leads the team during practices by giving suggestions to his teammates.

“Especially with the younger guys, our defensive principles can be tricky so I try to pull them aside and show them what they’re doing wrong and how they can improve,” Valvo said.