After a strong 26-4 season last year, the Delaware County Christian School boys basketball team is primed and ready to build off that success. Last season, the Knights not only won a district championship but also made a competitive run in the state bracket, proving they can compete with Pennsylvania’s best AA teams. While the graduation of 1,000-point scorers Khamai Orange and Beau Lyren leaves big shoes to fill, confidence remains high as new contributors step into larger roles. 

“Even though we lost two 1,000-point scorers, we have more contributors stepping up, and our ball movement is great,” senior forward Laverne Sombola noted. “Even though we lost some pieces, we will still be good because we will be a more cohesive unit who knows each other well. All of us can pass, dribble, and shoot.”

Furthermore, Head Coach Reggie Parks believes the team’s identity will once again be built on intensity and effort. “We are a hard-nosed, attacking styled defensive team who will push pace offensively,” he explained. Because that approach helped the Knights win districts and reach the postseason last season, the program is hoping to continue its success with this ideology.

Coach Parks reflected on last season’s experience as key motivation for another state title run: “Through hard work, belief in our processes, and with sincere focus on our faith, all things are possible.” After falling in the second round of states last season, the Knights return with increased motivation. “We’re looking forward to another states run this year,” Parks remarked.

Key returners to the lineup include seniors Bradford Berwick and Laverne Sombola, along with junior forward Karter Shaheed-Freeman, who joins the elite group of returnees. Stepping up into larger roles this season are junior guard Carter Dill, as well as sophomores Toby Morton and Joel Johnson.

Additionally, performing and carrying out the game plan has been a major focus this offseason. “One piece we are working on is execution,” commented senior center Bradford Berwick. “This will allow us to beat teams not only with our skill but also our ability to execute. Or, if we come up against a team as skilled, we can use our ability to make a difference.”

The Knights are also looking forward to key league matchups circled on their schedule. Berwick emphasized his excitement: “Church Farm and Chester Charter are some big games we are hyped about. We just have to play together and not let them speed us up.” 

Coach Parks acknowledged that the squad’s relative youth could present some challenges: “Our overall youth and inexperience will be a challenge. The only way to overcome inexperience is to get experience, so the ups and downs of our season itself should give us what we need.”

Based upon early practices, though, it’s clear that the players are confident and connected, ready to take on any challenge ahead. With strong chemistry and a targeted focus on execution, the Knights are determined to surpass last year’s mark as they seek to capitalize on their opening-game victory by securing the Tip-Off Tournament championship and aiming for a lengthy run in the PIAA tournament.