H-F’s boys basketball program enters the season under new leadership, as first-year head varsity coach Brandin Brown steps in following a phenomenal run two years ago. The Vikings are coming off a 30–5 overall record and an undefeated 16–0 conference season. They aim to continue their dominance while adjusting to new leadership and the graduations of last year’s standouts, Jayden Tyler, Arden Eaves and Brent Taylor, who combined to average 42.7 points, 14.5 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 4.7 steals per game according to MaxPreps.

“It’s been energizing,” Brown said of his first preseason with the team. “The guys have come in hungry, coachable and willing to work. Any time you step into a new program, you want to establish standards and build trust, and our group has embraced that from day one.”

In shaping the roster, Brown emphasised not just talent, but effort, basketball IQ and the ability to respond to adversity.
“We weren’t just looking for talent; we were looking for players who elevate others, who communicate, and who can execute in the structure we’re putting in place,” he said. “Ultimately, we wanted a roster that competes with purpose and aligns with our standards.”

The team’s returning players are stepping into leadership roles to fill the void left by Tyler and others. Junior shooting guard Jayden McDonald said, “My goal is to always do my part, make sure I’m doing the right [things on the court] and make sure the team wins.”
Junior guard Sam Carter discussed the team’s preparation. “With the team, when I can practice, I practice every day. Without the team, I go to the gym a lot, and I work with my trainer, Coach Shea Sumpter,” he said.

Sophomore point guard Darrius Hawkins Jr. spoke about the preseason, “We’ve just been in the gym like crazy, staying focused and preparing for the season.” He added that they are “forming that brotherhood we’ve been preaching.”
Carter has a similar opinion about their chemistry. “We support the younger teams, like Parker [Junior High] and James Hart.”

Coach Brown sees bonds like these as central to the team’s success. “Control what you can control — your effort, your attitude and your response,” he said. “If we stay committed to that every day, the results will take care of themselves. We want to be a team that stays together, competes with pride and represents HF the right way,” he stated.

As the Vikings open the season, the focus is clear: build on last year’s success, establish a new identity under coach Brown and find the next leader to guide the team to victory. With dedication, versatility and strong chemistry, H-F boys’ basketball looks ready to compete at a championship level once again.