by Austin Bainbridge

Head coach Sherron Wilkerson sits at his desk, planning practices and workouts and developing ways to help players improve. During the offseason, Wilkerson has to put in a lot of effort to maintain one of Indiana’s best high school teams.

“To win a state championship as a team we must be disciplined and mentally tough,” said Wilkerson.

JHS has a tough schedule and has high expectations from players and coaches alike this season, but the players aren’t concerned about the pressure.

“I’m not worried about the competition; our coaches have given us everything we need to win,”  said freshman Cornelius Weobong.

The coaches help the players improve, but the players know to get better they have to work on their own time to meet the expectations they’ll face this season.

“I work out with the team, but I also do pushups every night. I also jump a lot to improve my vertical,” said varsity player and senior PJ Douglas.

“To win a state championship as a team we must be disciplined and mentally tough.”

Basketball Coach Sherron Wilkerson

This commitment is essential for the Red Devils, who are expected to contend for a state championship. 

“This season is different because we are in contention for a state championship, and that’s huge for this team,” said Wilkerson.

The players have a good reason to believe in their skills, as they train intensely. The players know what’s at stake.

“I train hard seven days a week so that we can make and win a state championship,” said Weobong. 

The confidence of everyone surrounding JHS, especially the fans, is high.

“I think they are going to win a state championship, and I’m excited to see it,” said English teacher David Kummer.

The hype for this team has very good reason, too. The coaches have helped the players get better since the final game of last year’s 20-8 season that ended in a 52-51 semi-state finals loss to Ben Davis.

“My coaches have really helped me improve my game by showing me what I need to work on,” said Weobong.

These players feel that confidence. They worked hard all summer and fall getting ready for the first game.

“Practice is a big part of what we do. It translates directly into games,” said Douglas.

The fans are also hoping to help this team out on the court

Kummer said, “Fans contribute to the team during the games with big crowds that can motivate this team to play better.”

This team’s hope for the season is sky-high, and they are ready to get on the court and meet those expectations.

“As a team, we put in the work, and are ready to back up the expectations,” said Douglas.

JHS faces Cathedral High School at home this Saturday; the boys’ and girls’ teams will play. The theme is “White Out,” and the fall Homecoming crowning postponed due to weather will take place at halftime of the boys’ varsity game.