This season of Eaglecrest basketball will be fascinating to watch. Eaglecrest has been a strong contender for the state title for many years, and most notably won the championship back in 2018. However, ever since their title win 6 years ago, they have never managed to make it back on the podium. For many on the roster, this is their last chance for the ultimate goal. 

Despite their struggles, last year’s team went farther than the school has ever had since the title win: The Final Four. Yet, even after putting up a hard fought performance against Thunder Ridge, they came up slightly short from once again reaching the state championship game. 

In order to have a more successful playoff run, coach Jarris Krapcha wants his team to be much more dynamic on both ends of the floor.  

This year, Krapcha hopes that the Raptors are “more efficient offensively in terms of our shot selection…willing to fight for possessions and rebound.”

With the return of key Eaglecrest seniors such as Garret Barger, Gavin Gallegos, and Lucas Kalimba, Eaglecrest’s efficiency is on the path towards progression. Also, the addition of all-state Douglas County transfer Anthony Nettles will only skyrocket the offensive capabilities for the Raptors this season. 

Nevertheless, Eaglecrest isn’t the only one in the chase for the state title.

“Smoky Hill …Ralston Valley, Mountain Vista, Valor.. Those [are] probably the top teams. But you never know, some[team] could come out woodwork that maybe you weren’t thinking of initially,” said Krapcha. 

Despite the majority of the squad playing together throughout their high school careers, the team is still searching for a balance of play that compliments the unique skill sets each player offers. 

Therefore, forward La’quince York is aware that the team needs to keep on “building that team chemistry even more.” 

The Raptors did not start the season the way they wanted, losing by 17 points in their season opener against Regis Jesuit. Although Eaglecrest picked themselves back up the next game by pulling out a 43-41 victory against Legacy, their narrow win indicates that they still cannot keep their guard down. 

That being said, the Raptors have perhaps their best opportunity in recent years to win the state title. With a group of experienced veterans and some exciting new additions, the Raptors have the potential to reach the peak they’ve been so desperate to reach if they fly high together.