As the calendar transitions towards playoffs, Eureka Boys Basketball has been a powerhouse while hitting the heart of their conference schedule.
The team currently holds an impressive 18-7 record, characterized by strong offensive statistics. With Joe Rauls averaging 16 points a game, the team is averaging 60 points per game.
Eureka has relied on its senior leadership, featuring a starting lineup composed entirely of seniors, with a core including John Haberkorn, 12, Joe Rauls, 12, and Jackson Joggerst, 12. Head coach Austin Kirby refers to the trio as “the three-headed monster.”
The team has navigated a competitive conference against opponents such as Lafayette and Marquette. For the Wildcats, this season marked the best start in school history.
Blake Sitton, 12, a key player for the Wildcats, has noticed improvement this season throughout the team.
“We’ve gotten a lot better at rebounding, making sure we box everybody out, and moving the ball as a team,” Sitton said.
Sitton is a cornerstone for the winning culture. Eureka’s recent game outcomes have been reflecting their improvement as a team and the leadership from their strong senior class.
The early season momentum is highlighted by a strong showing in the Coaches vs. Cancer tournament, placing third, the best placing that the Wildcats have ever achieved.
In addition to success in the tournament, Eureka defeated Lafayette in the Battle of 109 with a close 56-53 score, showcasing a huge comeback win after trailing by 20 points at halftime.
Joe Rauls, 12, Eureka’s leading point scorer, was a key player in the rivalry come from behind win.
“It affected us in a really positive way, being able to beat Lafayette and come home with the trophy” Rauls responded.
Eureka has been demonstrating their hard work through their winning tendency, with the main goal for the rest of the season being to make it as far into playoffs as possible.
“We will be one of the better seeds by the time it’s all done,” Kirby said.
Because of Eureka’s strong district start, the Wildcats are set up for a strong playoff position. Eureka kicks off district play on March 3rd, facing off against Parkway South at Marquette at 7 p.m.
