Crete Monee High School Basketball season

The Crete basketball season has been a roller coaster filled with both promise and adversity as the team works toward finding consistency before the playoffs. While the team has shown flashes of talent and chemistry, setbacks such as injuries and losses have tested their resilience. Despite the ups and downs, the players remain focused on improving and preparing for the most important part of the season.

“The season has been going ok. We have good days, and we have bad days, but that's all a part of basketball,” said Uriel Chapman. “We have been beating some good teams, we beat Rich Township in a double overtime game ending 56-54.  But we have been on a bad losing streak, losing to Kankakee, Bloom, Thornwood, Thornton puting our record to 12-14 and conference 3-7. We are trying to find a good placement with everyone, and just trying to see what works with us and what fits with us, and get ready for the playoffs.”

Recent challenges have made the road to the postseason even more difficult. After senior night, the team faced unexpected obstacles that shifted momentum and tested team depth. These struggles have forced players to reevaluate their approach as the playoffs quickly approach.

“The basketball season has been up and down,” Senior Isaiah Lovett said. “We have good moments, then take steps back. Recently, we have been in some trouble after senior night. A couple of players got injured, and one of our important players quit due to things outside of basketball, and we just recently lost to Bloom by a lot.” Lovett’s quote emphasizes how injuries and personal circumstances have played a major role in the team’s recent struggles by giving us a harder chance for the playoffs and a bigger challenge for the team. These challenges have forced the team to adjust quickly, making it even more important to regroup before the playoffs arrive.

Even with setbacks, younger players are gaining experience and looking ahead with confidence.

Despite the hardships, younger players are looking ahead with optimism.Tyler Fears said, “The season hasn’t been what we planned.” Tyler Fears said. “It’s win or go home, and we’re trying to prove that Crete will be something this year.” “The season has been great watching the seniors play and getting to know everyone… we are now worried about the playoffs because that's win or go home and we are not trying to go home.” Fears’ mindset reflects its determination to prove themselves when it matters most. As the playoffs approach, Crete hopes their perseverance and lessons learned throughout the season will lead to success when the pressure is highest.