Boys Basketball Finds a Home Away From Home
Midwood and Fort Hamilton fight for the tip-off on December 14. Photo: Continental Studios
By ARIELLE DORSET
To some, the sounds of sneakers squeaking, heavy breathing, and basketballs bouncing on the floor may just be a noise. But for the boys varsity basketball team, it’s the sound of home.
The inspiration to play comes from different places.
Jayden Archer ‘24 started his basketball career with his parents' encouragement. “They saw the potential I had and wanted me to pursue it,” he said.
Adam Terli ‘23 was encouraged by seeing his childhood role model LeBron James on the court. “Growing up, my favorite player was LeBron, and being in basketball, that pushes me to be the best version of myself,” he said.
Many of the boys see basketball as a lifelong hobby, if not a career. “I see myself playing until I can’t walk,” said Kobe Wang ‘24.
The sport’s value goes far beyond the physical aspect. Being a Hornet teaches core life lessons, such as the importance of family, good sportsmanship, and how to deal with a loss.
Team captain Luke Walsh ‘24 makes sure to live up to those values. “I try not to get upset over mistakes,” Walsh said. “You know, you’re upset at first, but you just need to use it for motivation for the next game.”
Surrounded by teammates who pick one another up when they’re down, many players said that since joining, they now hold themselves to a higher standard. Some of the boys said being on the team gave them a confidence boost socially. “I was definitely more shy before I joined the team,” said Arblin Arapi ‘24.
But being on the team can be demanding, in more ways than one.
“The biggest challenge is having less time to spend with my friends,” Walsh said.
“The sport definitely changes your entire life, both emotionally and physically,” said Samirkhon Bakaeu ’25.
Still, the boys continue to stay motivated and work hard with the help of their coaches.
Mr. Brandon Bennett, a guidance counselor, joined the basketball coaching staff after he’d had similar sports experiences as an alumnus. “Going to Midwood was a great experience and basketball was a contributing factor,” he said.
Mr. Bennett's main goal this year was to teach discipline, respect, and the importance of family. “I think it’s a good way for students to learn the importance of teamwork,” he said. “I want to help contribute to them becoming better men overall.”
With this being the last year for seniors to participate in high school sports, the season has become an important time in their lives, and every second counts. Nasir Boone ‘23 expressed this as well.
“Of course I feel a certain way about this being my last year to play basketball during my teenage years,” he said. “I appreciate all the experiences that high school basketball gave me.”
Being a Hornet has encouraged each team member to rely on those around them and create a safe community, living up to their motto “1, 2, 3, Midwood! 4, 5, 6, Family!”