By Gabby Rodriguez and Emma Bonanno – Staff Reporters

The Jonathan Law boys basketball team is looking forward to its upcoming season. 

With new Head Coach Mr. McPartland, the Lawmen are prepared for their home game opener against Bridgeport Central on Tuesday, December 16. 

“We are going to play a fast-paced style of basketball that should be fun to watch,” McPartland said. “Both off and on the court we have worked on our communication with one another and I think the boys genuinely enjoy each other’s presence, which isn’t always the case.”

Senior Captain Ryan Nobles hopes that his leadership will further help the team succeed.

“I try to keep everyone focused and motivated by giving effort during drills and practice, and encouraging them to do the same and just always get better,” Nobles said. 

The players have put in the work in the preseason so that it pays off on game days.

“I am preparing for basketball this year by working out and working extra hard with my teammates in practice,” junior Matthew Witteman said. 

This season, the team hopes for improvements in both their team play and the personal performances.

“This season I think we will improve a lot as a team,” sophomore Dylan Gaillard said. “Everyday we will just get a little bit better and stack those days. Personally I’m going to try to improve my communication on defense and overall just playing at a higher level.”

The team has lofty aspirations for their journey this season, but they are focusing on the small goals to get them there.

“Ultimately, our goal is to be playing for a state championship at Mohegan Sun in March; however, we are well aware that in order for that to happen, there are micro-goals that we need to accomplish,” McPartland said.  “What we have been stressing and emphasizing thus far has been, win today’s practice. We focus on the process and on getting better each and every day and trust that the results will take care of themselves.”

One thing the team values and executes is giving their best effort every time they step onto the court.

“Our team plays hard and gives lots of effort and it definitely benefits us in close games,” senior Marcus Townes said.