As the boys’ varsity basketball team prepares for the playoffs, they conclude the regular season with a solid record of 7-5. In their final games before postseason, the team faced off against Bethesda-Chevy Chase, Walt Whitman and James Hubert Blake.

Each game was neck and neck. Bethesda-Chevy Chase was an offensive team during the game on Feb.12, with good playmakers all across the court, but the Patriots came away with the win in overtime. The Whitman game on Feb.14 was close, with the Patriots leading by two at halftime while playing great defense around their perimeter. In the second half the Vikings connected on three-pointers and the Patriots couldn’t get their groove back on offense, ending in a loss for the Patriots. Blake is one of the best teams in the county, making for an entertaining game on Feb.21. The Patriots made a statement early with their defense playing well but toward the end of the game the team couldn’t get it flowing on their offensive end and they gave up some costly rebounds that led to layups for Blake, with an ending score 66-51 in Blake’s favor.

As the playoffs approach, the team has been focusing on playing with confidence and improving their chemistry. The improvements are evident in their practices, which have become more focused and effective. “At this time of year, we try to focus in on the small things or basics within the game. Our guys have done a great job at competing at a high level. We want to maintain that level of competition in everything we do within practices and games while focusing on doing the basics really well. If we can do that, we can compete with everyone in our region,” Coach Erick Graves said.

A key addition to the latest games and playoffs is senior Khairi Hyde, who has returned to play after suffering a long injury. “I’m blessed more than anything to be back. I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to return. But I am glad to be back to help my team now,” Hyde said.

The team will be competing in the 3A Region during playoffs, with some tough challenges ahead The Patriots first playoff game will be away on Friday, Feb. 28 or Saturday, Mar. 1 versus Damascus. Coach Graves identifies Sherwood and Blake as the most intense opponents, but he also notes that the region as a whole is filled with strong, well-coached teams. “Every game should be a good game,” Graves said.

This year’s team has shown several strengths, particularly their guard play. With a dynamic group of guards who work well together, they’ve been able to set the tone on both ends of the floor. While the team lost three of their tallest players last season, making them smaller overall, Graves is proud of their determination “We play with a lot of grit. These guys play hard and fight on each possession,” Graves said.

The team has high hopes for a deep playoff run, aiming to reach their third consecutive regional championship and perhaps even make it back to the state playoffs.“I believe this team has the ability to make a big run. We have a group of guys who are talented, love each other and play hard,” Graves said.