Foran three-peated the annual four-team holiday basketball tournament, continuing its reign as champs

 Every holiday season, four teams go face-to-face in a basketball tournament hosted by Platt Technical High School. The competition includes Seymour, Platt Technical, Sheehan and Foran high schools. The outcome of these games count toward each team’s season record.

Foran has held the title of tournament champion for two years running, and going into this year’s match was looking to hold onto that title. Foran beat Sheehan in the first round, and Seymour in the second. 

Joseph Meade, the varsity small forward and a junior at Foran High School, said prior to the games that their goal was “to possibly get a three-peat this season and bring back the trophy.”

Well, they did it.

The Foran boys basketball team  prepared for the tournament throughout the season with six weekly practices. Meade says the team members “work hard in practice to make [their] games easier.” 

The tournament provides other benefits to the team as well. Keith Vail, varsity junior center at Foran, states, “Playing in this tournament for the past two years has given me a good understanding of how Platt plays.”

Being the reigning champions for three years now  has a positive effect on the team’s mindset. Vail says it keeps their confidence, motivation and their spirits high throughout the rest of the season.

Jaxon Staples, shooting guard and sophomore of Foran, was named tournament MVP for his outstanding performance with averaging 23 points per game. This helped Foran come through with a hard fought victory over Sheehan and Seymour

This year, the tournament was held at Platt Technical School on Dec. 27. The winning teams faced off the following day, on Dec. 28.

The annual tournament is open to watch for students that attend the four participating schools.