The buzzer echoed the gymnasium, signaling what had been the end of Westview’s season. For the players at Papillion LaVista High School it was more than just a game. It was the night that they punched their ticket to go to state for the first time since 2017.
As the monarchs stood on the court holding their district champion plaque, one thing was clear: they weren’t just playing for themselves anymore. They were playing for the pride of their town, their teammates, and the legacy they hoped to leave behind.
The dream of reaching the state championship has been shared by every player, coach, and fan but now it was a reality.
“Making it to state really felt like a surreal experience, it’s been a long time since our program has made it,” junior Demarcus McCarty said. “It truly means the world to our team since we’ve worked extremely hard day in and day out.”
Even after a tough game, the team comes together by embracing their shared experiences and using it to grow stronger as a team when heading into the state tournament.
“The team has supported each other after every game,” sophomore Preston Avalon said. “After every mistake, win or lose we always pick each other up.”
After a series of intense games the team has reflected on their performances and what they can do to be better in their final games.
“I would definitely say our physicality and togetherness has been a key point of emphasis going into this postseason,” McCarty said. “We practice as hard as we can everyday.”
Looking at the challenges this team has faced as the post season continues they have to recognize fatigue setting in, but it stresses the importance of pushing through.
“Our guys start to get tired when they have played a ton of basketball over these past 5 months,” McCarty said. “We just have to find a way to dig deep and get it done.”
The boys basketball team started the year off 6-9 and they are now going into the state tournament 15-10.
“[We] went against all odds to make it to state,” Avalon said. “Each and everyone of us guys believed in each other.”
Making it to the state tournament represents the accumulation of hard work, dedication, and teamwork. As the team faces their cross town rival Papio South, the experience of playing at such a high level is both a reward and a challenge. This upcoming game will push the players to elevate their skills and mental toughness.
Whether or not they emerge as state champions, the journey to the tournament offers valuable life lessons about resilience, commitment, and the power of sport to bring communities together. For many, this experience will serve as a defining moment in their athletic careers and provide lasting memories that extend far beyond the game itself.