The Seminole High School Boys Basketball team is preparing for the upcoming game at the Amway Center on Jan. 9, 2016. This match means a lot to the team because it will increase their reputation. It will take place after the Orlando Magic vs. Washington Wizards game, and the athletes will be challenging University High School.

Every year, a number of high school basketball teams are selected to play at the Amway Center. This is the first year Seminole High School was chosen and they hope to positively represent Seminole. This match counts as a district game, which makes it a decisive game to win because the result will count for the district record and the overall record.

A game on a National Basketball Association court is a new opportunity for these players to show their strengths. Students and teachers are encouraged by the players and coaches to go to this game to see the Magic team as well as the ‘Noles take on the Cougars. With the combination of new talent and veteran teamwork, the ‘Noles expect an easy victory.

Coach Sylvester Wynn says, “We play every night to win. Hopefully watching the professionals play will inspire the team and encourage them to win.”

Junior Varsity sophomore Nick Ramos says, “I think we’re going to win because the team this year is doing well against other high-skilled teams. From previous experience, University isn’t that organized. We are good at creating turnovers and finishing during the fast breaks.”

To prepare for games, players run offensive and defensive sets in practice games. This enables the coach to detect any flaws in the way the ‘Noles play. Some places they could improve are working together as a team and playing persistently every night.

Ramos also says, “I believe we should work on our team chemistry because we have all the necessary pieces to be a good team in regards to skill and talent, but we just don’t play well together and often get into arguments.”

“We need to improve on individual skills, such as ball handling, passing, and rebounding, until we get where we need to be. We want to be a little more consistent by playing our best in every name. During practice, we do repetitive routines to make sure we stay consistent,” says Wynn.

Varsity junior Johnny Cooper says, “I try to be the best player I can be. I motivate and look out for my brothers when I can.”

The outcome of this game will show the capabilities of the team and how much they have advanced as a team as well as a family. Winning this game will give the boys an advantage in the district standings, which can lead to qualifying for states.