The 7th and 8th Grade Oriole Boys Basketball teams had an exciting and growth-filled season, marked by memorable moments, significant progress, and plenty of learning along the way.
The 7th Grade Boys Basketball team competed in 15 games against 11 different schools from November to December, finishing with a solid 11-4 record. All but one of the victories came by at least 10 points, a testament to the team’s consistency and strength. Their four losses were all to strong teams, but each loss provided valuable lessons and highlighted moments of great play.
“There were some very good moments in each of those games,” remarked Coach Matt Steinbach.
A total of 12 players, most of whom were returning members, made up the roster this season. Due to limited practice time—just one week of preparation before games, along with two games a week and other conflicting school activities—coaches faced the challenge of introducing a variety of new plays and defensive strategies. This season marked the first time these players encountered zone defenses and pressing/trapping strategies. Coach Steinbach explained, “The team faced many new defensive strategies this season, several of which were not practiced against until seeing them.”
Despite the obstacles, the team made significant strides, especially in shooting, decision-making, and defense. Coaches were impressed with the individual and collective growth throughout the season, and many of these players continued their development in the Great Northwest Basketball League (GNBL) in January and February as they have for the past 2 years finishing with a record of 8-1. Across these 9 games, they outscored their opponents by more than 20 points per game on average. The boys then capped off their season by taking 1st place in a tournament at Neillsville, while also establishing a season-ending 10 game winning streak. In total, the boys finished 21-5 on the season with all but 4 of the victories being by at least 10 points. All 5 losses were against very good teams, but there were great stretches of play in each of those games.

Over on the 8th grade side, the season was a rollercoaster ride filled with highs, lows, and everything in between. Coach Chris Krajacic described it as “an amazing ride, full of ups and downs.” He added that it was "a year of firsts" for this group, which had only truly come together as a team since the beginning of 7th grade. Highlights included the team’s first-ever win streak of three consecutive wins, a winning home record (4-3), and their successful implementation of full-court pressing, a strategy they had not dared to try before. The 8th graders showed tremendous growth, not just in their skills but in their commitment to improving both individually and as a team. Each practice, each game, was an opportunity to get better.
“This team had wins every week, in every practice, in every game. It’s exciting to see what this group can accomplish in the future with their whole high school basketball careers ahead of them,” said Coach Krajacic. The 8th grade team’s passion for the game was evident, and it’s clear that they have a bright future ahead of them as they continue their basketball journey.
Coach Steinbach would like to extend special thanks to Cheyenne Moore for her assistance coaching the 7th grade team, as well as to everyone who helped organize and staff the games. With such a strong foundation laid this season, both the 7th and 8th grade boys basketball players are on the path to continued success in the years to come.