With one game left this season, the boys basketball team is currently tied for third place in district. In the last game of the year, Hebron hosts the last-place Marcus Marauders on senior night tonight. With an 9-6 district record, the Hawks are in a favorable position, but still need a win in tonight’s game against Marcus to ensure the third playoff seed is clinched.

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Senior point guard Zane Philip reads the defense prior to calling out a play.

Playing 16 district games over the course of nearly three months can take both a physical and mental toll on the players. Heading into the final parts of the season, senior Brandon Phillips said the team needs concentration now more than ever.

“We should be extremely focused, paying attention to details in practice and in film,” Phillips said. “It’s the little things that can make a big difference in the game.”  

After starting the season 2-4 in district, the team responded, winning six of the following eight games. Senior Torrobric Robinson knew the team would need to ramp up the energy as a unit as the season progressed.

“Intensity during the second half of district has definitely increased,” Robinson said. ”All teams are trying to win and grab one of the four playoff spots up for grabs.”

Including the double overtime win versus Plano West last week, the Hawks have been a part of four overtime games this year, the most of any team in the district. In addition, eight of the 14 district games played this year have been decided by seven points or fewer.

With so many closely contested and tight games, the team has had an opportunity to grow together through the tough losses and exhilarating wins. Head Coach Mark Bishop recognized the benefit of playing in so many close games this year.

“We’ve told them since the start of the year, especially in this district, it’s like a gauntlet,” Bishop said. “Your emotions will go up and down but you’ve got to remain poised and prepare for the next game.”

Playing in close games can have a positive effect on the team, junior Roy Broomfield III said.

“We are a very diverse team and we all have our roles,” Broomfield III said. “When we have those close, overtime games it really shows that we are able to compete with any team in our district. Tough losses and spectacular wins help our team chemistry in ways indescribable.”

Last year, Hebron missed the playoffs for the first time since 2011. Especially after that disappointing year, the pressure is higher than ever for the seniors on this year’s team to make sure the Hawks get back to the playoffs.

“As a senior I want the most of this season,” Phillips said. “And after seeing my teammates and coaches expressions last year I don’t want the same for this team.”

Robinson shares the same views in regard to making the most of this season.

“There is a higher expectation for the team after barely missing playoffs last year,” Robinson said. “We know we have the team and willpower to make it to playoffs, so we just have to play as a team and get it done.”