The Greendale Panthers Boys basketball team has been doing well so far this season, but they have struggled with beating top 10 teams in the state. As of right now, they are 10-3 overall, only losing to Wisconsin Luthern, Pewaukee, and Mount Horeb, all of which are ranked top 10 in the state.
The players are feeling good but know that there are things they can work on which will help them be more successful.
“I think our season has started great with a record of 7-3 and our only losses coming to very good teams.” junior Tyler Roche said, “I see us having a chance at going all the way to State this year because of our leadership and experience from our seniors.”
The Panthers are looking like strong contenders in the postseason beating teams like New Berlin Eisenhower by 29 and Pius by 22. The team depends on top scorers like senior Devin Isaj with 22.5 ppg and junior Zavier Castillo with 15 ppg. Wisconsin Luthern also moved up a division making the postseason easier.
“I feel like we can be a contender if we fix up our defensive mistakes because our offense is solid,” senior Luke Mattes said.
Although the team has been off to a hot start, It didn’t come without challenges, Multiple injuries occurred at the same time giving the team some hardships. Some of these injuries included a starter and two key role players off the bench.
“Injuries have had a pretty big impact on the season because we have had three injuries to start the season which limits our depth and certain things that players provide for the team,” senior Colin Granberg said.
Injuries have definitely affected the Panthers, but some challenges for the players are getting used to the new fit. The team is mostly seniors, but five new players have joined the team. Some challenges were not only physical but mental too.
“Some challenges are adjusting to a new role and being there for my teammates. Also needing to work on getting better intensity on defense and having more confidence,” junior Jack Grunske said.
The Panthers still have a lot to prove with their upcoming conference games, but the players know they have what it takes to come out successful and feel prepared.
