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Ryan Pate
6’5″, 192 lbs
Small Forward
I have been proud to be on the Mountain Pointe Basketball Team for three years and I am committed to finishing my high school career on a high note. My goals for this year are to achieve straight As, be a team captain and win the State Championship. I will be a leader on and off the court and I will do whatever Coach Eason, Coach Fauske and Coach Brown ask of me in pursuit of winning. |
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John Norsworthy
6’0”, 160 lbs
Point Guard
I have been playing for Mountain Pointe High School for three years. I am devoted to helping this program to achieve the highest level of success. My goals this year is to make myself and my teammates play to the best of their ability, be a leader, work hard, maintain good grades, and most of all win a 6A State Championship. I am looking toward this coming season while, doing everything in my ability to work hard, listen to my coaches, and lead my fellow teammates. |
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Selah Thomas
6’3″, 175 lbs
Guard
I have been attending and playing basketball at Mountain Pointe High School for 3 years and it hasn’t been as I expected so far. But I always have a positive attitude and I know my last year is going to be a turnaround from the past. My goal this year is to do well in school, set good examples for the younger players in our program and win the championship this year. And we’re working hard to achieve our goal. The most important thing to us is playing as a team because “the best teams play for each other, not with each other.” |
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Amarion Cash
6’4″, 175 lbs
Guard
I have been blessed to play for Mountain Pointe Basketball program for the last 3 years. Being on varsity since sophomore year, we have not made it past the second round in playoffs. So this year, I have huge aspirations for my team and I. The Main goal is it win a Championship and hang the first Boys basketball Banner in the gym. My goals outside of basketball are to improve in all aspects of my life, such as getting all A’s & B’s, being able to influence and have an impact on others younger than me, and to set an example in public of what a Mountain Pointe Basketball player really is. |
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Terrance Hunter
6’1″, 165 lbs
Guard
I have been a part of the Mountain Pointe basketball program for three years. I am dedicated to helping the team achieve the highest level of success. My goal is to end my senior year with good grades and a 6A state championship. I am looking forward to performing to the best of my abilities to achieve my goals and to help lead my teammates towards a successful season. |
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Ryan Pate
6’5″, 192 lbs
Small Forward
Coach Eason has definitely stepped in and changed the culture here at Mountain Pointe. Coach Eason is great because he pushes us on the court and in the classroom and communicates with us. We show up 20-30 minutes early to school everyday to get more work in the weight room or get shots up which is something you wouldn’t see in recent years. We stay motivated because we have our eyes set on the 6A state championship. We have a lot of things to work on but we’re improving everyday. |
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John Norsworthy
6’0”, 160 lbs
Point Guard
This is my last year at Mountain Pointe and I have many things to be excited about such as our new coach Duane Eason. As well as the change of culture in the program, some changes have been we have practice all year round, the offense and defense, and I believe our work ethic changed dramatically. In addition, what I like is our coach holds high standards for us to achieve and knows that we will get there. Now, we believe we will get there as well. |
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Selah Thomas
6’3″, 175 lbs
Guard
After 3 weeks of school, I like the direction new coach, Duane Eason has the program going in. I am really happy with the system that he’s put in. One major positive is we’re all putting in work early and together, which I think will help with team chemistry. I like how we cover more than just one or two things in a practice. We work on all things, which is very different from the previous years. Coach Eason has us working together instead of individually like my first 3 years. If we continue to stay together and work hard, this can be a great season. |
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Amarion Cash
6’4″, 175 lbs
Guard
This season is all ready shaping out to be different. With us getting a new Coach this year, many things have changed such as our time in the gym, the way we work as a team, the toughness being instilled in us, and the way he forces us to step up. I like how all of us have the same mindset and goals. Last year, we really weren’t as together and weren’t on the same page. Everyone was worrying about themselves at the time but now we see the bigger picture. Our Coach isn’t only preparing us for our performance on the court but also in the real world. We’ve already made a lot of progress from last year’s season but it’s only the beginning. |
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Terrance Hunter
6’1″, 165 lbs
Guard
The culture of the basketball program has not been where it should be. We have a new leader in Coach Eason who is dedicated to changing that and making Mountain Pointe a successful program. I like what he is doing for the program. In the past, everyone would just walk into tryouts and think that they could have a chance at making the team, things are different now. If you are not working with us everyday the chances of you being apart of something special are slim. I like the direction we are headed in and I am excited for what this season has to offer. |
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Ryan Pate
6’5″, 192 lbs
Small Forward
Coach Eason has taken over the strength and conditioning program at Mountain Pointe and transformed it. Before, we would walk in to weight training and just sit and talk. Now, we’re always moving and always pushing eachother, and doing extra work when we finish the main workout. It’s effected the team by bringing us together and giving us a new mentality. It’s effected me personally by making me a harder worker and gotten me into much better shape. |
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John Norsworthy
6’0”, 160 lbs
Point Guard
I think that our new strength and conditioning program has helped us tremendously. This year is different from last year because we have started conditioning earlier so it has begun to become easier as we go from week to week. Versus last year were we started like a month before the season. I also think it has had a positive impact on the team because I have seen us start to gain weight and become better conditioned athletes in the process. Including myself I have noticed that my stamina has increased as well as my strength. Without a doubt there has been positive changes within the program throughout the past few months. I am ready for whatever there is to come. |
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Selah Thomas
6’3″, 175 lbs
Guard
Going into the 5th week of school, everything is making more sense. The strength and conditioning is making us tougher as a team so we can be prepared to run and play they way coach wants us to. This year is different from last year because everyone is actually pushing themselves to be better, by putting in work everyday. Personally in my head I think to myself that conditioning and lifting hard is only making me better, so I think about the outcome instead of all the tiring things we do. |
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Amarion Cash
6’4″, 175 lbs
Guard
This year’s Strength & Conditioning program is challenging. It tests us mentally and physically. At times it’s hard to wake up early in the morning and get in the gym or stay after a long day of school but as young men, we have to handle our business. It’s only going to prepare us to be men in the future. Last year I was in football weight training and we had high expectations and it was a certain mindset we had to be in coming into the weight room. I feel being in the basketball weight training is great because I’m bringing my hardworking habits into a class that wasn’t as disciplined. I’ve been pushing myself in the class and pushing my teammates. So far I have gained 10 pounds in the last three weeks but it’s only the beginning. |
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Terrance Hunter
6’1″, 165 lbs
Guard
The strength and conditioning program is tough. Every single day we are pushed to our limits. This is going to make us the toughest most conditioned team in the state. It has effected the team in a major way. Guys are working harder than ever and the results can be seen in the way our bodies are changing. Last years program was no where near this level so this is a step in the right direction. As for myself I feel as if I am improving each day in the weight room and on the track. I have quickly noticed changes in my body and I feel as if I am in great shape so far and I am looking forward to playing full court all game. |
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Ryan Pate
6’5″, 192 lbs
Small Forward
The first month under new coach, Duane Eason, has been a wake up call and a reality check for us. We feel we are the toughest team in the state because of how long and hard we work and how focused we all are. We have our eyes set on the 6A state championship. Coach Eason has developed the mentality in all of us that no man gets left behind. In previous years, all anyone cared about was individual stuff, now we are more of a team. We wake up early every morning to get in the gym and then get in the weight room to get a head start on our workouts. After school we have study hall for an hour to make sure our grades stay up. Then we stretch and run the track for conditioning. Every other day, we get in the gym for skill work after conditioning. Coach Eason has made us all better men since we’ve known him. We are thankful for this opportunity and think that the right decision was made. As the season gets closer and closer, we are looking forward to seeing that our hard work pays off. We’ve all been with each other since at least freshman year, some before, so we all have that chemistry and the mentality that you don’t eat with those you didn’t starve with. We will continue to get better and better as the season comes closer. We have all learned that with Coach Eason, there is no off-season. |
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John Norsworthy
6’0”, 160 lbs
Point Guard
The first month of conditioning has been good so far. I have noticed my stamina when I’m on the court increase gradually. Furthermore with my conditioning, I have seen a drop in my 400, 200, and 100 times with every week that goes by. In addition, I have also gained about 5 pounds within the last month and with the weight that I have been lifting is going up as well. With that I have seen an increase in my vertical, which has helped me be able to dunk more consistently. I also think this month has brought me closer to my teammates and I believe our team chemistry has increased as well. The study hall also has helped me with getting my homework done so I do not have to worry about doing it at home which allows me to go to sleep earlier and enables me to wake up not tired when we have weight lifting in the morning. With the morning workouts I like the idea of getting in the gym earlier so that we can get through our workouts so that we have time for band work after. Through this first month I have also noticed that coach has been a bit tougher on us as the season approaches. But with that we have tightened up as well and have been able to get out stuff together. This first month has been pretty good but we have two more to go and I am looking forward to it. |
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Selah Thomas
6’3″, 175 lbs
Guard
The first month of conditioning and the new system was stressful at first, but now it’s regular. Putting in work is an everyday thing, but we still have a lot of work to do, in order to get through it. This month as a team we have started to understand that we have to work together to build a family and a real team. Coach is really showing us how to play fundamental and read the defense. Everyday we learn something that’s going to contribute to our game and even our everyday lives. This month has really shown me how much work you have to put in to be successful. At this point I really trust the system because of the progress and the improvements we have seen since we started in the beginning of it all. I’m looking forward to the season already and I know we have a lot of things we haven’t done yet to get us prepared for it. Doing things that other teams are not doing is what’s going to set us apart during the regular teams. If we keep working hard as we did this month and stay as one team then we can only get better. I really want to win and I’m willing to do what it takes. My team is counting on me just like I’m counting on them to do what they need to do to achieve everything we want. This was a good month, and the next one should be a better. We just have to keep working. |
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Amarion Cash
6’4″, 175 lbs
Guard
The first month of Pre-season was overall good. It challenged us all in the beginning when we first started. We’ve learned to take good care of our bodies because it’s essential to how we perform on the court. Personally, Ice baths, stretching, staying hydrated, and making sure I’m eating 4-6 times a day just to have energy in me when I have to give my all on the track or court. As a team we have grown closer, we are brothers. We go through the same things each day and it strengthens our relationships with each other, as well as our performance. We’re on a strict schedule but it’s something we’re becoming accustomed to, and we are building good work habits. My teammates and I come early and stay late almost everyday. Not only are we in the gym and on the track, we all participate in study hall. Study hall is great because it gives us a chance to finish our class work for the day; because by the time we go home, it’ll either be really late or we’ll be tired. Which would cause guys to end up not getting things done. Our coaches have high expectations for us, and we have high expectations for ourselves as well. There are many goals we want to accomplish this year, and we are working hard to prepare ourselves for the challenges in front of those goals. These things don’t happen over night but all of us have the same mindset and know what we want to come out of this season. That’s why we’re working now. |
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Terrance Hunter
6’1″, 165 lbs
Guard
The first month of the strength and conditioning program was tough. Now that I am accustomed to it, working this hard daily is routine. I have seen an increase in my stamina, weight and I have also grown closer to my teammates. Study hall has done a huge part in helping me keep my grades up. I also finish all my homework which means I go home with no homework. I believe as a team we have all seen improvements and have gotten better. Our team chemistry has improved because we are pushing each other to our limits every day. As we get closer and closer to the season Coach Eason is tightening up on us. Every day he gets a little bit tougher on everyone. With our eyes set on a 6A state championship that is what we need. Our morning workouts are a great way for us to get in the gym or the weight room early before anyone else gets in there. After we finish in the weight room this allows time for us to work on our band work. This band work helps us with our ball handling. With all this work that we are putting in on a daily basis there is no doubt in my mind that we are the toughest team in the state. |
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Selah Thomas
6’3″, 175 lbs
Guard
When i’m not playing basketball, I like to hang out with friends, play video games (NBA 2K is my favorite), and exercise. When I hang out with friends we usually go out to eat or chill it somebody’s house. Sometimes we end up at the gym hoopin, since most of my friends play ball.
There are other off court activities I enjoy as well. For, instance, I’ve become more excited about school. Last season I had some academic issues, so I missed part of the season. This year I’m more focused and doing better in my classes. I’m realizing the importance of education. On top of that, I get to see my teammates and friends everyday.
A new off the court focus of mine, is learning how to cook. I think it’s important to know how to cook so you can provide for yourself and not have to depend on someone else feeding you or you spending all your money on unhealthy food. My mom is a good cook so it’s going to be easy to learn, because she can teach me. If I really get into it, maybe I can make cooking a career.
Another area I need to improve in is sleeping. Lately, if I’m not with friends on the weekend I try to get more sleep. I feel like I I’m not getting enough sleep to get through my day. With early morning weight lifting, school, study hall, running and workouts, rest is important. On a Friday nights, if I don’t have anything planned, I try to get to bed early, and sleep late on Saturday.
Family is extremely important to me. When I don’t have anything on my schedule, I love to go visit my auntie. She’s been through a lot, and she watches all the kids in our family who can’t take care of themselves yet. Plus, they don’t have to be with people they don’t know. She usually has things for me to do, because she’s getting old and she can’t do them herself. My older cousins are usually gone because they went off to college, so now it’s just me with the little ones. Being around them is important, so they get know who I am. I love my family, so spending time with makes me feel good. |
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Amarion Cash
6’4″, 175 lbs
Guard
Outside of basketball, school is going great. I am getting good grades in all my classes and I plan on continuing that. Keeping all my grades at A’s and B’s were one of my goals this year and I’m working hard to accomplish that. I like to help my teammates do the same as well because when the season comes, we want everyone to be eligible. It’s important that we all put a large amount of focus on our grades because not only does that affect how we are in school but it builds responsibility also.
When I have free time I like to either hangout with my friends or get in the gym. I like to go support our football team because I’ve grown up with a few of the players. We normally go out to eat with one another after the games are over and hang out.
When I’m home, I enjoy playing with my little sister, watching college football, basketball, NFL, and inviting friends over to play 2k. Hanging out with my sister is my favorite though because I see her getting more and more intelligent everyday.
Sundays I normally go to church. It’s important to me and my family that we continue to thank God for our blessings by giving some of our time to him.
Also, after a long week, I make sure I catch up on my sleep and sleep at least for one day. I need to rest so I can prepare my body for another week. |
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Terrance Hunter
6’1″, 165 lbs
Guard
Off the court I am a very relaxed and laid back person. I enjoy spending time with my family as they are very important to me. I also enjoy spending time with my friends and teammates playing video games or just hanging out. My favorite video games to play are NBA 2K and Black Ops 3. I have also been more involved in school, I was in the black student union and I have went on field trips with my club Prides Peak. We took field trips to University of Arizona and Arizona State University.
An important aspect of being off the court that I take very seriously is that I must take care of my body. Taking care of my body is important if I want to perform at the level that the team needs me at. After practice I take ice baths and I stretch before bed. Your body is essentially like a car you get out what you put in. My parents taught me how to cook and what to put into my body so I can perform at a high level. Taking care of my body also means getting a lot of rest. Although I complete the majority of my work during study hall I may have to complete the rest at home which makes it a little tougher to get more rest. During the weekend is when I try to get as much rest as I can. I like to sleep in on Saturday and try to get to bed a little bit earlier. Off the court time is minimal, so I make the most of it, when it’s available. |
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Ryan Pate
6’5″, 192 lbs
Small Forward
This week was a less busy week for the basketball program because of Coach Eason’s being in California. Saturday night a few of us went to Lifetime fitness to get some run in. I got to take my mom’s car to school on Monday. Monday and Tuesday were normal days with study hall, conditioning and practice. We didn’t have practice Wednesday-Friday which gave us some more free time. That time was mostly spent with each other at the gym, working or just chilling at the house.
We got out early on Wednesday due to it being a half day. We usually spend our hour before study hall and practice to go eat so that’s what we did after school this week, heading to ATL wings two of those days. I went to the gym on Thursday to get some shots up and lift. Friday night we supported the football team in their game and went out to eat at Native after. Saturday we had a good practice and had an intense one on one tournament after. This week we are ready to get back on the track and in the gym to keep working towards our goal of the 6A state championship as the season gets closer and closer. |
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John Norsworthy
6’0”, 160 lbs
Point Guard
Last week consisted of many things. We had practice and conditioning last week and that went alright. On Wednesday, last week we had a half day so my friends and I went to eat lunch at ATL wings and enjoyed our day off from practice. Some other activities I went to last week was that me and a couple of friends when to lifetime to play basketball. As well as, on Friday we went to support the Mountain Pointe football team against Pinnacle. It was a really good game but Mountain Pointe pulled it out with a large lead. In addition, Saturday I went to Tucson to learn about how to build a solar powered go-cart, also we learned the things we need to know along with the things not to do while building our go-carts. We had to go because we have to build solar powered go-cart for our year long project. I learned a lot and got to see my sister out in Tucson as well. I had a great week last week, I did a lot of eventful things but I’m ready for what this week has to offer and I am ready to compete this week. |
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Amarion Cash
6’4″, 175 lbs
Guard
This past week we had a few days off but it was still a good week of getting better. Although we didn’t have practice after school or study hall I went to gyms near me and either lifted or got on the court. On Wednesday Selah and I went to go play one on one at the gym nearest to both of us. We competed and got each other better. On Friday before I went to support my schools football team, I went to a gym called “Pro Edge” and did strength workouts there. I feel like I have to go and get better before I enjoy myself with anything that’s going on outside of basketball. At the football game, me and my teammates had our own little clique. It was fun hanging out with them outside of basketball because it builds our bond. After the game we all headed to Native’s grill & wings to grab something to eat. After the night was over, I spent the night at one of my teammates house. I had to go home the next day but before then I we had practice and held one on one games after practice ended. It was competitive allowing only three dribbles. Gladly, practice was in the morning so I was able to enjoy the rest of my day, I later went to support my girl at her soccer game and then back home to do some chores and take care of my sister. I also was able to look up specific degrees to help narrow down what type of business degree I want to earn. I looked into numerous colleges and what they have to offer and applied for scholarship money. Overall it was a good week. |
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Terrance Hunter
6’1″, 165 lbs
Guard
This past week was different as far as our daily routine goes. We had a few days off so I took that time to take care of my body and get in the gym and work on my game by myself. Those few days for me were much needed. It allowed for me to go home after school and spend a little bit of extra time with my friends and family. Besides that, it was pretty much a normal week. After taking days off we got up early on a Saturday and got some work in.
Last week I completed a nice clay name plate design in my ceramics class. I like that class because it is a step outside of my comfort zone and it allows me to explore and express my creativity.
My sister’s birthday was this past week so we had a small family get together to celebrate. She just turned 21 and is graduating soon from Arizona State University. It was great spending time with all of my sisters of other family members. It’s difficult getting all of us in one place at the same time because everyone has their own busy schedule. Last week was a relaxing week but I am looking forward to getting back to the grind. |
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Ryan Pate
6’5″, 192 lbs
Small Forward
This last week was one of the toughest so far for us. We ran on the track and stadiums on Monday. On Tuesday, coached introduced a new drill to us that resulted in us doing 25+ suicides. Wednesday and Thursday was regular schedule with us getting on the track and in the gym. On Thursday we supported the football team at the Tukee Bowl. On Friday we chilled and Saturday we got in some extra work on the court during a 4 hour workout.
This next week is big because it is the last week that all of us will work out together. We have got in some good work over the last couple months. The first quarter ends after this week and the next week after is fall break. I will be in Tucson for a few days visiting family like I do every couple months and then will come back and help the team go find sponsors for the upcoming season.
Fall break is not considered a week off for us even though we don’t have practice because we will be in the gym every day preparing for the season. Even though workouts are almost over, we can’t relax because this is only the beginning for us. Study hall has helped us a lot in the classroom with keeping our grades up and conditioning has pushed us all to get faster and into better shape. Coach Eason has gotten all of our games better in the gym and we are satisfied with the progress we’ve made so far. |
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John Norsworthy
6’0”, 160 lbs
Point Guard
Last week, was a good week and consisted of many things. We weren’t in the gym on Monday but were in the gym the rest of the week. On Tuesday, we had to do the perfection drill which was nothing but a disaster. Every time we messed up the drill, we would have to run 2 suicides and we ended up running the whole practice. We ran about 21 suicides that day which was dreadful. Wednesday, we went over zone plays and went up at down. Thursday, was a good practice as well, after practice my teammates and I went home, showered, and got ready to go support the football team that night against our rivals Desert Vista in the tukee bowl. It was a good game but Mountain Pointe beat Desert Vista 21-10. Friday, was a light day we just had lifting and after school I went home and chilled until it was time to go to senior night at my friends Elijah’s house. It was basically a chance for all the seniors at Mountain Pointe to get together to have good time and bring the senior class closer. Then on Saturday, we got a little work in at 7am at the school and ran two on two games until coach came in and we went through competitive drills. After this coming week, we are on fall break. My fall break will mostly likely consist of resting and training, but we also have to do some fundraising for our basketball team. |
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Selah Thomas
6’3″, 175 lbs
Guard
Last week I went to church and spent time with my mom’s best friend and her kids. I was pretty bored because most of the kids were little. We went out to eat at Red Lobster and we went on a good day because they had all you can eat shrimp. I also spent time with my grandma because I don’t get to see her often. She likes to spend time with us, since she doesn’t see me and my brother much. She lives far and works all day everyday, so it was good that she got to see us.
This week is our last week before fall break. My plan for the break is to do core workouts and work on my jumper. I don’t have plans to really go on vacation or do anything interesting because the struggle is real. I know we’re going to have practice or do some type of work during fall break for school. I want to go visit my aunt and help out with the kids because I know she needs it. I haven’t been around as often as I usually am to help because I’ve been busy. Since break is coming up, I should be able to go by. Hopefully I have a good break and get some work in. |
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Amarion Cash
6’4″, 175 lbs
Guard
Last week was a good week. It was also challenging school wise and basketball wise. On Tuesday we were tested to perfection. We had to be able to not have any mistakes doing 2 man drill, 3 man weave, 4 man weave, and 5 man weave. On each mistake, we were on the line. It brought more focus onto what we needed to do. Not only to complete the drill but to get better fundamentally as a team. It also disciplines us, so that we don’t make those mistakes in games. Last week I went to my Pre-Calculus teacher about 3-4 times. The lesson was challenging and I needed all the help I could get before we took the test. I ended up getting a decent score on the test but I could’ve done better. I brought my economics grade up from a B to an A last week also. This fall break I plan to be in the gym faithfully everyday. I want to gather up with my team and get some work in. I also plan to enjoy myself and get the rest I should. I want to be able to go to one of the haunted houses also. It will be a fun experience to do so because I have never been. All my friends have and I will just end up going with them. Another thing I plan to do this fall break is try to see family that normally I don’t get time to see. |
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Terrance Hunter
6’1″, 165 lbs
Guard
This past week was a routine week. We went hard every day and made some progress as a team. There was one day where we struggled with some mental mistakes which led to us being on the line 21 times and running suicides. Fortunately, we still have time to learn from those mistakes and it was not a game situation where it could have possibly put a loss on our record. We cannot afford to have mental lapses especially in big games.
This week was the Tukee Bowl which is when we play our rival down the street Desert Vista; It’s on a Thursday every year. My teammates and I went to support the football team and our peers. The best part about the Tukee Bowl is the environment. It is always packed and everyone comes out and shows their school spirit. Each student section yells different chants at each other and the teams compete hard on the field. Of course, every year we come out on top and get the win. This is the sixth year in a row that the Pride have won the Tukee Bowl. It’s always a lot of fun attending games with that type of atmosphere and competition.
Next week is fall break and I am looking forward to it. I want to spend some time with my family and friends and get some time in at the gym, by myself. I am going to use this break to also get some much needed rest for my body. Especially with the season right around the corner. |
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John Norsworthy
6’0”, 160 lbs
Point Guard
Last week was a pretty competitive week. Monday we had our regular schedule, but Tuesday we played against the JV squad in the gym I’m not going to lie they were handing it to us and we took a few loses. They talked there stuff and what not, but we told them we were going to get them Thursday. Sure enough we did and made them bite their tongues, but last week I believe we improved as a whole. Which is especially good because fall break is this week and then there is two more til tryouts. Friday, we went to support the football team at the homecoming game; it was surprisingly a tight one against Highland, but they managed to pull out a win 14-13. Saturday was our homecoming dance, and all my guys were “fitted.” I believe everyone had a great time, and it felt good to be with the guys outside of the gym. More importantly, we need to get to work during fall break because the next two weeks will be getting us ready for the season. We have all been waiting for basketball season, and it’s finally around the corner. Hopefully all the hard work we put in during the spring, summer and fall will pay off. |
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Amarion Cash
6’4″, 175 lbs
Guard
Last week was very busy for me and the guys; we had the end of the academic quarter and fall workouts. Plus, it was homecoming weekend, which means the pep rally, football game and dance.
On the court, we got off to a slow start in practices; including struggling with the B Team in Tuesday’s practice.. However, by Thursday we picked it up, as practice was more competitive and intense. We still have more room for improvement mentally and physically. It was the last week of Fall Workouts, so we needed to have a good week. After fall break, pre-season practice starts, so we gotta stay focused during this week off.
In school last week, I was focusing on finishing the quarter with good test scores and grades. So I made sure I was able to see my teacher before my test and I turned in assignments that would be the last grades in the quarter. I ended the quarter with 3 A’s and 2 B’s. Also, last week I sent out my SAT scores and transcripts to the colleges that have shown interest in recruiting me.
On Friday we had a pep assembly for homecoming. The assembly was very upbeat and set the mood for the whole day. All the dance groups and everyone who performed put on a great show. At lunch someone brought a speaker to where all the Seniors sit and we all were singing, rapping and dancing along with the songs. The Next day at the homecoming dance, was even better. My friends, my girlfriend, & I enjoyed ourselves. We took many pictures and videos throughout the night so save the memories from our senior homecoming. Overall it was a good week. |
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Selah Thomas
6’3″, 175 lbs
Guard
Last week was a pretty good week. We didn’t have school one of the days and we had shorter classes on one of the days. We had shorter classes because the school had an Assembly and a parade. I enjoy the assembly’s because you get to see your friends perform on things they have been working on for a long time. It’s a break from class also. We only do the parade once a year, but it’s ok. They throw candy during it, but it’s just hot; which makes it less interesting.
Last week practice got really competitive and interesting. We scrimmaged a little and people were trash talking and having fun at the same time. I like when practice is like that because it really gets you locked in and ready to compete. I think it’s funny when some players can’t handle trash talk and they get emotional. I don’t trash talk much because I don’t really care for it. I think it’s a waste of energy too. Trash talking to me does nothing.
Also last week I visited some old friends from my old schools. I don’t really see those friends much anymore, so when we get together, we already know it’s gonna be a good time. There’s no chemistry lost between us, like we see each other everyday. When we link up we talk about old memories and funny moments. It was great seeing them again, and ended a great week. |
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Ryan Pate
6’5″, 192 lbs
Small Forward
My fall break was pretty good overall. We got a lot of shots up in the gym and some good practice in. During the week we got a lot of 2k in. Last Saturday night was homecoming. Most of us went and had a good time and had fun afterwards too. During the week we got in the gym and got work in because the grind doesn’t stop for us. On Wednesday, my family came in from out of town and spent two nights with us which was cool because I haven’t seen them in a long time. Thursday night was the home football game against Desert Ridge. It didn’t go the way we wanted it to, but it was still a cool night.
Friday and Saturday night my mom gave me the car and a few of us went to lifetime fitness and worked out until 2 AM and then went to Tempe to eat. It was a chill night. It was a good week to get out of school and just chill and hoop. This Monday is when reality comes back and we have to get back to work. We’re feeling really good about the upcoming season and we’re ready to show that hard work pays off. We know what we’re capable of and we’re not backing down from any team. We have to remember where we came from and where we want to go. |
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John Norsworthy
6’0”, 160 lbs
Point Guard
My fall break was pretty eventful nonetheless. We were not supposed to have practice this week but everyone did not just want to take this week off, we had to get in the gym somehow so some of us called coach, to see if he could open the gym. So, the first few days of fall break like Monday and Tuesday coach opened the gym in the morning, we went throw a few drills and just got some shots up. Coach was like might as well have practice so we did for the rest of the week. In the mornings before practice, the A group would get in the film room to watch some over our games we played this past summer; to break down some things we can improve on in our games individually and collectively.
Also, there was a home game for the football team and we went out to support them against Desert Ridge. Surprisingly, the football team ended up losing to Desert Ridge 20-31. Even we play basketball we still were able to analyze some of the things that the football team didn’t do as well as they should have. This gave us insight on how to better ourselves as a team, so we do not make some of their mistakes when it comes to our season.
Fall break was good to take a break from school, but now basketball season is around the corner, so it is time to get everything cleaned up to ready ourselves for the season. |
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Selah Thomas
6’3″, 175 lbs
Guard
This fall break was probably one of my best breaks. I didn’t do anything big, but I wasn’t bored like I usually am. To start fall break it was homecoming weekend, which was pretty fun. I enjoyed dancing and taking pictures with friends, We took pictures at AZ Grand Resort for a better background for the pictures. I was a little upset because I ate before I left to homecoming and they had a few snacks I like at the dance. I didn’t wanna eat any because I wasn’t hungry.
During the week I was in the gym getting shots up and working on attacking angles for easier finishing opportunities. Me and Amarion usually go together to work on things so it was the 2 of us. Me and Jalen are usually together during our free time. We like to go hang out with friends, eat , and listen to music. Basically anything we can do besides being bored. The seniors and the coaches went out to fund raise money for basketball team. It was a good moment and learning experience with the team. During that we went to a new smoothie and nutrition store to help rate and promote there products. I appreciate coach taking us out to eat after doing the fundraising.
This weekend my grandma moved in with my uncle and cousin. I helped her move some things and get situated. It wasn’t really hard, and it’s great being around family. It was the perfect way to end the break. |
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Amarion Cash
6’4″, 175 lbs
Guard
Fall break was cool, originally it was supposed to be a week off for the basketball team, but instead we were able to get in the gym and put in work. We by got up shots, went over sets, and worked on perfecting our play execution, while competing. There were a lot of nights where I would go to the gym late at night on fall break and that I would just be up late. For instance a couple times I didn’t go to sleep until almost 3-4am but Saturday night I was at lifetime from 10pm-1am. This fall break was also much needed so I could be able to get my mind off of school and to rest my body. I caught up on sleep and was able to handle a few other things outside of basketball. One of my favorite things I did was watching college football and all my older friends play.
Beginning of fall break was homecoming weekend; it went really well. Me and the guys enjoyed ourselves. Friday we had a parade, and the game. The football team got a hard fought win. Saturday we had the dance, so the team and I got dressed and partied. We had fun chilling together off the court.
Normally I only go to my moms house on the weekends but I was able to spend more time with her on my time off during the week. We went to Amazing Jakes towards the end of fall break with family. I’ve been there for my birthdays before when I was little, it was cool going back there to play all the old games and everything else I used to do there. My mom also let me take the car a few times over fall break, it was cool because she put more trust in me and I had to be responsible with it. |
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Terrance Hunter
6’1″, 165 lbs
Guard
Last week was a great week as the team showed signs of improvement in every aspect. What I love is how practice is becoming more competitive each day. Guys are talking trash and letting them know that they’re killing them. The gym is loud and everyone is going hard at each other to make each other better. Once it’s all said and done,we all know that at the end of the day were a family and if one team loses they say we’ll get you next time and that’s it. This competitive drive is what we need to bring to every practice and every game. Having that will help us on our journey towards a state championship. We are learning to competition is very important, and we bring it to the track workouts as well. When we’re running we see who can get the fastest times. This competition pushes us to be our best each day and leave it all on the floor.
Last week was also our Homecoming weekend. On Friday we went out to support the football team, and they came out with the victory against Highland. This Saturday was the homecoming dance, so all the players were dressed to impress.. We don’t get to hang out the often off the court, so it was nice to have social time together, away from the gym. My teammates and I got together to dance, take pictures and have a fun night. It turned out to be fun and productive week and weekend. |
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Ryan Pate
6’5″, 192 lbs
Small Forward
This last week was tough as we started conditioning inside the gym instead of on the track. The running was tough but we’re getting better each day and making the times needed. We got in some good practice last week and are starting to really come together as a team, just at the right time. We still need to learn more and fine tune, but we’re all starting to come in to learning the style of play that Coach Eason likes.
The end of preseason is going well as everyone is starting to realize their role and everyone is in better shape now. Coach Eason has changed the culture here at Mountain Pointe and we’re feeling ready for the season to start, so we can put on for our school. Study hall has most of our grades looking right. As the season gets closer and closer we’re going to need to get our minds right. We have great chemistry and we have a brotherhood now that we didn’t have before. Coach Eason has instilled new principles and brought a new energy and a new mindset to the basketball program.
Tryouts are coming up next week. It’s going to be tough for any guys that haven’t been here with us throughout the summer and fall. Coach has let us know what’s going down during tryouts and the amount of running that is going to go down. We know we’re ready for whatever Coach throws at us. It’s going to be a good season at Mountain Pointe. |
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John Norsworthy
6’0”, 160 lbs
Point Guard
Last week was a good week of workouts for the team. We did our conditioning in the gym and then had practice. We had practice everyday this week except Friday. Coach said that those practices we had this past week are going to be like the ones during the season. Coach has turned up the intensity during practice as well as work on us perfecting our practice.
Friday, we went to support our football team in the second to last game before the playoffs, at Corona; who they easily beat 56-7.
This is our last week before tryouts, and I feel pretty good in our progress. The pre-season felt super long but has gone by surprisingly fast. I believe that we have improved our stamina, strength and team chemistry throughout the pre-season. Also through the pre-season I think we have learned all the plays with some exceptions that coach has not implemented in our offense yet but I think our defenses are good and we understand our rotations better than we did at the beginning of the summer. I just need to touch up on some decision making and defense rotations before tryouts and the season.
Tryouts are next week and I think that we should all be ready for it. We just need to get our paperwork in for tryouts and everyone needs to keep their grades up for this coming season, so that we do not run into any academic problems in the middle of the season. I believe tryouts should be really good and I can’t wait to see all the people who have not been working out with us, because they are going to be in for a rude awakening. I think I would find that very comical to watching them struggle. My focus will be on solidfying my spot, so my senior season can be great. |
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Selah Thomas
6’3″, 175 lbs
Guard
Last week was like any other normal week nothing really worth talking about. Just went to school same schedule, weights in the morning, school after, then ending the day with basketball practice.
The end of pre-season was a learning experience and a wake up call for me. I learned the expectations and also how much work we have to do before the season. Even though we went 30-4 in the summer, I still think we need a lot of work and we could be way better. Honestly I think we weren’t playing well, and I know we’re better than that. I also learned how we’re going to be playing so now when I’m in the gym by myself I know what certain things to work on to better myself and the team throughout the system. The pre-season was also a wake up call for me because the last summer game I thought to myself “this was my last high school summer league game.” Thinking about how fast that season went through and how the regular season could be that way too. So I need to really focus and be the best I could be, so when that last season game comes I could feel satisfied and give my jersey back proud; saying to myself I did my best and left everything out on the court.
I’m looking forward to tryouts because I’m ready to see people back up all the trash talk at school. A lot of people at our school really think they’re just gonna make the team, after not putting in any work. Guess we’ll find out next week. |
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Amarion Cash
6’4″, 175 lbs
Guard
Last week we did a lot of conditioning in the gym, it’s helping us to be able to maintain a high pace without fatigue. With it being a certain time frame we have to run our sprints in, there’s an expectation of where we should be after all the time we’ve spent on the track. Execution was a big part of what we did last week as well. There was an emphasis on focusing on how to rotate on defense, sprint to close out, and where to be in help defense.
With Pre-Season coming to an end, things are pretty much solidified on who we can depend on, what guys roles are on the team and what we’re all working towards. There have been clear guidelines set by our coaches regarding basketball & being a student. Being a student always come first and if people’s grades slip, we can’t use them. Same thing for basketball, if you can’t remember plays, rotations, and won’t benefit us in any way, we can’t use you. With that being said, we’re ending Pre-Season and with a little less than a month until gameday, we should be rolling with the guys who have stayed true to those guidelines.
Tryouts are coming soon and I’m sure we’ll see a lot of new faces. I believe the only way people would be able to make our team is if they can get through conditioning, if they can defend, & share the ball on offense. All the people who’ve been here the last couple of months, have an advantage because they’ve been running and participating in all the work we’ve been doing. But overall it will be interesting to see. |
Mountain Pointe Basketball 