During the off-season, the Vikings basketball team proved their dominance, winning the Vikings United Fall Tournament and setting high hopes for the season ahead. The Vikings’ strong preseason performance bodes well for the regular season.

The Vikings are coming off a practical dream season, their 23-24 season record was 34-4, their final win being the boys 4A state championship. In the previous season the team was led by now-graduated Senior Gianni Cobb. With the loss of the seniors and the expectations now placed on the team, many are asking, ‘Will they be able to win again?’ While there’s no way to predict the future, we can check in with the Vikings and see what goes into building a state ready team!

After tryouts on Nov. 11, which saw numerous hopefuls showcase their talents in the South gymnasium, the team solidified their starting lineup. With experienced seniors and promising new players, the Vikings have built a strong foundation for this season. The varsity starting five consists of Srs. Jayden Tyler, Ethan Howard, Brent Taylor, Kyle Pope and Arden Eaves. The Vikings are now five games into the season, with a 5-0 record. 

‘We’re having a strong start to our season and have many goals set that we will achieve,’ said Senior Forward Kyle Pope.

Senior Guard Brent Taylor shared some insight into the hard work put in during the pre-season: ‘At H-F we [are] practicing everyday [with] no days off, except Sundays and sometimes not even that’.

Most recently, the Vikings defeated the Lincoln-Way Central Knights 72-53, and the 23-24 4A championship banner was unveiled. The game also marked Coach Jamere Dismukes’ 100th career win. Starting the season ranked 7th in the state, the Vikings’ move to 2nd spot showcases their exceptional early-season performance. Ethan Howard and Jayden Tyler are currently leading the team in scoring, both operating well in the paint and from the 3-point line. As defending champions, the H-F Vikings are the team to watch, and other teams will be giving their all to try to take them down.

On Saturday, Dec. 7, The Vikings defeated the Whitney Young Dolphins in the Chicago Classic Tournament, continuing their win streak. The Vikings will lead us into break on Dec. 13 at 6:30 p.m. against Stagg. 

Things are looking up for our Vikings, they are showing dominance on the court and defending their title valiantly.