GAMES
RANKINGS
2022-23 Klein Oak Basketball
FIGHTERS: Klein Oak in Regional Semis
The Panthers enjoyed an impressive regular season, finishing with a 20-12 record and No. 2 in their district (10-4). Subsequently, Klein Oak advanced through the first three rounds of the UIL postseason, most recently emerging victorious in a 52-51 thriller against Cypress Springs.
So, what did it take to achieve this kind of turnaround?
“Hard work, selflessness and discipline is the first thing that comes to mind,” said coach Joshua Ervin. “As soon as I arrived at Klein Oak in June of 2022, they had a fire about them and a desire to win. We worked hard every day in the summer. The young men hardly took days off, we took care of our bodies, we took care of our studies -- with no off-the-court issues whatsoever.”
Klein Oak HC Joshua ErvinBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Ever since Ervin has taken over the direction of Klein Oak hoops, this team has looked dangerous with a brand new mindset.
“Our mentality is that of toughness,” he said. “We’re fighters and we keep calm under pressure. This is the best season and team I have ever been around in my 13 years of coaching. It is not about the record but the togetherness and selflessness of our team. It took everyone believing in themselves. Before I arrived at Klein Oak, I knew who they were and the potential they had. My job was to make them believe in their talent.”
Klein Oak's Bryson HolmesBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
What makes this Panthers' squad special isn’t because there is one particular standout, but there are several.
“If you look up the definition of ‘team’ in the dictionary, there should be a picture of Klein Oak boys basketball next to it,” Ervin said. “The reason I say that is because if you watched us for five games in a row, you may see five different leading scorers. Truthfully, it depends on the night and the match-up. If you are making me pick, then it would be Daniel Perez, T.J. Robinson, Brennan White and Bryson Holmes. Furthermore, Courtland Guillory, Isaiah Walker and Noah Franklin have been just as good as anyone on any given night.”
Klein Oak's TJ RobinsonBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
If there is anything that Coach Ervin has taught his athletes this season, it is the attribute of resiliency.
“I encourage the team to always try their best to stay positive through all the ups and downs of the season. Push through difficult times, and keep fighting," he said. "That’s the reason we are going to Regionals. I have never seen our team quit one time this season. They can use that lesson for the rest of their lives.”
Count on that mindset to come into play when Klein Oak faces off against Mansfield Legacy this Friday
2022-23 Pearland High School Girls Basketball
MAKING HISTORY: Pearland GBB back in State Tourney after four decades
Pearland GBB following their victory over Summer Creek in the Regional FinalsPhoto acquired via Pearland ISD Twitter: @PearlandISD
Their skill was put on full display in their recent 39-26 win over Summer Creek in the 6A-3 Regional Finals, as they punched their ticket to San Antonio to face off against DeSoto this Friday for the opportunity to contend for the UIL State Title.
“This season has been truly fun and special,” said coach Jere’ Adams. “These ladies are so funny and it’s been a joy to watch them grow over this season. The most important thing has been buy-in and strong leadership. Since losing last year, the kids have been intentional and focused on achieving our goals this year. Our three seniors have done a great job leading the team.”
Pearland's RyLee GraysJuan De Leon (VYPE)
Said seniors, standout North Carolina-signee RyLee Grays (17 PPG, 11 RPG) has been lighting up the scoreboard, as well as guards, Paige Bonner (4 SPG, 3 APG) and Janae Tucker (3 APG, 2 SPG), have both exhibited defensive prowess all season.
Furthermore, junior Nyah Hardy (10 PPG, 3 RPG, 78% FT) along with junior La’Niah Thornton’s three-point proficiency, has provided the extra firepower that has led the Lady Oilers to become seemingly unstoppable.
Pearland's Nyah HardyJuan De Leon (VYPE)
However, the Lady Oilers aren’t finished yet. After returning to the final four on the heels of a State Tourney drought that lasted over four decades, Pearland does not intend to return home empty-handed.
“I am expecting my team to continue to work hard every day for the goals we have set ourselves,” Adams said. “Winning it all would be a blessing. We’ve worked so hard this year and this group is so special, so to end the year with a victory would be absolutely spectacular.”
Janae Tucker
