After a very successful senior night against Grayslake North, the Sequoits won 44-39, hyping up the energy for the upcoming first round of regionals against rivals, Lakes Community High School.
During the first game against LCHS, the Sequoits had lost in overtime 42-43. The Sequoits won the second game in overtime 50-48. This rival game will determine whose season ends, whoever wins moves on and whoever loses goes home.
“I feel really good and confident because our guys know how to play against [Lakes] and they know what the formula is for success,” head coach Sean Connor said.
Due to some inconsistencies throughout the season, like injuries and players out due to COVID-19, Connor made adjustments by bringing up JV players.
“I was moved up mid-season which was one of my biggest challenges to overcome this season,” sophomore Joel Bulka said.
While the team as a whole adjusts and prepares for this game, the players are working extra hard at practice and making sure to watch more film to make changes that will ensure advancement into the second round.
“As Lakes make adjustments to what we’re doing, I think our biggest hurdle to overcome is consistency and communication,” Connor said.
With changes in the starting lineup and boys constantly getting put in and out, this has pushed the boys even harder as the season comes to an end. The team is motivated as the day slowly approaches because of the energy the crowd and the team creates.
“The energy of the crowd helps me play, especially coming from my teammates and it gets me going,” junior Emmy Zamudio said. “I was pretty excited when we found out we were playing Lakes again and glad we have another shot at them.”
“Our guys are really comfortable playing at home. It energizes and makes you feel good and proud about what we’re doing,” Connor said.
The Antioch vs. Lakes basketball game is on Feb. 23, 2022 at home and is the first round of playoffs.
