The Hinsdale Central boys varsity basketball team played against Bartlett on Jan. 31. The team won with a score of 64-50, redeeming themselves after their losing streak for the past two games against Batavia and Glenbard West. Currently the teams record is 10-14.

The team has several goals they want to accomplish for the rest of the season.

“…The end goal is to make it as far as possible in the state playoffs and by playing our best come late February. Personally, I want to be able to do whatever I can to contribute as much as possible to our team,” said Cullen Bradley, senior.

The team as a whole prepares heavily for each of their games.

“As a team we go through tons of film and walk-throughs prior to games to make sure we’re ready for each opponent. I am also big on keeping my body fresh and making sure I do the right recovery exercises days before games so I’m feeling good for game day,” Bradley said.

Each player has a physical routine to get them ready for big games like Glenbard West.

“Before the game I do at least ten minutes of jumproping to get my blood flowing and make sure to eat a good pregame meal,” said Joaquin Miyawaki, senior.

Other players have routines to get them mentally ready for games. 

“I usually have an energy drink and listen to music to get locked in before the game starts,” said Cole Bero, senior.

Team bonding is important to make sure team members work together efficiently, and the boys basketball team has different ways they achieve this.

“The basketball program always starts a year off with the team dinner at uncle Julio‘s. This is a great experience for the team and allows us to really bond and get closer as teammates,” Bradley said. 

The team also spends time together after practices and games. 

“My favorite team bonding activity is going out to eat with the team after a win,” Bero said. 

The varsity boys basketball team will compete next on Feb. 2, against Downers Grove North.

To learn more about the team’s schedule, click on this link https://www.maxpreps.com/il/hinsdale/hinsdale-central-red-devils/basketball/