After finishing last season 8-15, Annandale boys varsity basketball led by newly hired coach Deidrich Gilreath looks to improve their team mentally and physically starting with tryouts. According to Gilreath, their goal for the season is to prepare to win districts.

In order to do so, they have to surpass Hayfield, Mount Vernon, T.C. Williams, and West Potomac.

Tryouts for the team ended on Wednesday November 8th.

“I was looking for kids who wanted to be on Annandale basketball that would put the team before themselves. Also, selfishness and being uncoachable will have no place on the team. A player who has no intention to work hard to get better will not make the team or will be cut no matter their skill level, ” Gilreath said.

Desire to be on the team and willingness to work hard are traits that Coach Gilreath was looking for on the team.

”Anyone who is committed and has dedication and heart for the sport will always improve,” said Gilreath.

He also wants the team to be intense, competitive, and take part in physical practices to acclimate the players to the style of district that Annandale will be a part of.

Most importantly, to improve from last year, coach Gilreath wants the team to improve mentally.

“They need to not make the same mental mistakes over and over again,” Gilreath said. That mindset will leave small room for improvement and could prevent Annandale from being top of their division.He believes it is the little details that play a huge part in the game and can decide a win from a loss in which the mindset, confidence, and momentum come into play.

“Another factor that will help the team succeed is the easier district that Annandale varsity has moved into this season,” Junior Junior Lotongo said. He also believes the new coach will be a good thing.

“He will bring something new to the table, push the team to do things that have not been done before, and go above and beyond during practices. Coach Gilreath will help the team build up confidence for the season due to how hard he will make the team work in practices,” Lotongo said.

The boys basketball team have a new coach in Coach Gilreath, and they will be looking to succeed with new beginnings.