Menlo’s varsity boys basketball team has had an up-and-down season, currently sitting at a 13-9 record. After graduating seven seniors, the team has learned to play with a new roster led by junior Ehan Zhao averaging 13.7 points per game and seniors Aidan Stull and Tate Cohen averaging 9.8 and 9.5 ppg, respectively. Over the holiday break, the team traveled to Oahu for the Punahou Invitational, where they went 3-1.
The tournament gave the team a great opportunity to bond and begin the season on the right foot. A major factor in the team’s success has been their chemistry. “This year, we do have a lot of underclassmen on the team, and I think a lot of our seniors on the team have done a great job to be a leader and mentor those younger players,” Cohen said.
Stull echoed Cohen’s remarks, expressing his gratitude for all his teammates. “Initially, I was a little concerned with a large team of 18 guys, but honestly I can’t imagine our team without all of them — particularly freshmen who have been playing incredibly hard,” Stull said.
However, the team’s performance has varied throughout the year. “I’d say our energy level and defensive intensity have been inconsistent. We have great high points and some frustrating lows,” Stull said. Through these “lows,” the team has come together, developing camaraderie. “I would say we’re excellent teammates and everyone’s always there for each other if someone misses a shot or has a tough game,” Stull said.
A key win this season came against Menlo-Atherton High School, a tough non-league opponent ranked ninth in the Central Coast Section. “Everyone showed up and played super strong which got us that big win,” sophomore Kai Mawakana said.
Although the team’s record has struggled in league, they believe there is a chance for a strong finish entering playoffs. “We still have a few league games left so I think we’ll be able to finish strong before playoffs to get a higher seed,” Cohen said. After losing in the CCS Division IV final to Carmel last year, the boys look to bounce back and capture the win this year.
