The North Union Warriors boys basketball team is gearing up for a new season under the guidance of 11th-year head coach Alex Fisher. After an impressive 14-2 season that landed them second in the Top of Iowa Conference, the Warriors are faced with fresh challenges, including a largely new roster and many players stepping into their first varsity roles.
Coach Fisher emphasizes the importance of player development this year, particularly in light of the team’s loss of five starters and the current injuries affecting key players. “Our lack of experience is a significant challenge,” said Fisher. “We’ve returned zero minutes of varsity experience from our starting guys—not to mention our sixth man is currently out.”
However, the team does have some experienced players, including juniors Khael Jones and Drew Henderson, who are crucial in helping newer members acclimate to the varsity game. Despite their challenges with injuries leading to a shorter bench, the Warriors kicked off their season positively with a commanding victory over West Bend-Mallard, securing a score of 66-48.
Fisher noted that the focus for the team right now is to build chemistry, particularly with their modified lineup, which features different offensive strategies while they adapt to player absences. “We’re focused on gelling together right now,” he said, mentioning the adjustment to a three-guard offense.
Looking ahead, Fisher remains optimistic about the team’s shooting capabilities, noting several players who are effective beyond the arc. “We’ve got a solid shooting team, and our guards can really create offense,” he commented.
The Warriors’ primary goal for the season is consistent improvement. “Our expectation is to get better each day,” Fisher declared, expressing hope that once injured players return, they will be competitive for a top position in the conference.
While Fisher acknowledges the difficulties posed by the current injuries, he shows confidence in his squad’s ability to adapt and regain their strength as players return to full health. The Warriors are set to face North Iowa in their next game, scheduled for Friday at 7:30 p.m.
There is a sense of hope and resilience surrounding the North Union Warriors as they embark on this season. By prioritizing growth and team cohesion, they aim to overcome their current hurdles and strive for a successful season ahead.