Boys 2022 Basketball Season: The Ups and Downs

X.+Alvarado+driving+to+the+basket+for+a+layup.

Courtesy of LRHS Yearbook

X. Alvarado driving to the basket for a layup.

Although the 2022 boys basketball season has come to an end, there were a lot of ups and downs that made the season fun for everyone who was a part of it. Although the boys had an under .500 record, they played hard all season, which made Coach Ryan McCarney proud. 

Many players put hard work, effort, and dedication into this season. Coach McCarney told The Lancer Ledger a few players that exceeded expectations. Senior captain Carter Pagan was a huge reason as to why the team had a lot of positivity throughout the season. Finishing his high school career with over 700 points and over 500 rebounds, Coach McCarney said that he had, “… the most positive effect this season. He is without a doubt our team MVP.” 

Senior Captain C. Pagan getting announced into the game. (Courtesy of LRHS Yearbook)

Along with C. Pagan, senior Timmy Siegel and junior Xavier Alvarado also had a major positive effect on the season. Coach McCarney shared that Alverado had 59 3-pointers made this season, which is 177 points alone, without factoring in other baskets. 

When Coach McCarney was asked if there were any underclassmen that really impressed him this year, he shared with The Ledger, “Noah Pagan really progressed nicely over the course of the season.” N. Pagans’ big game was definitely the county game against Passaic where he nearly managed a triple double, which resulted in him scoring 9 points, getting 10 rebounds, and getting 8 blocks. His efforts helped the team’s  51-43 win. 

Additionally, the LRHS boys basketball team proved they support every single player on the team. This year, at the later stages of the state tournament, senior Afrim Odza hit a massive 3-pointer, and Coach McCarney proudly says about his team, “The way his teammates celebrated him is what high school sports is all about.” 

The team showing that they support one another while getting ready for the game. (Courtesy of LRHS Yearbook)

Overall, the 2022 boys basketball season was an upbeat and positive experience, leaving many players excited for next year and leaving the seniors with an unforgettable experience.