While fans of basketball enjoy watching the big stars, such asLebron James, Russell Westbrook, and Steph Curry, there is always more to a team than just the players who take the spotlight. The Xavier Saints boys’ basketball team is no different.

Senior guards Matt Mims and Jackson Joens know about hustle and hard work. Although they are the top scoreres, a few other players have gone from having smaller roles as juniors, to earning significant playing time as seniors. Gabe Lux has gone from playing only a few minutes last year to becoming a starter this year. While he does not fill up the stat box like some of the other starters, he is renowned for his defensive toughness.

“Up and down the lineup we have to all be mentally engaged from the tip off and just give our all,” Lux said. “Everyone on our team has each other’s backs, and personally that gives me the extra energy to play for one another. I want to do whatever I can to help the team win games.”

These players, who dive on the floor for loose balls, shuffle their feet a few seconds faster, and are willing to take the charge on defense, are often the difference between winning and losing a close game. This kind of attitude is something most coaches look for in a player. It is also a good way for players who may not have gotten the most minutes in the past to begin to earn more playing time. Matt Ropp is a good example of this, as he went from almost zero minutes last season to being an important sub this season.

“To be honest, I don’t think I am very good, but I hustle, and hustle wins games,” Ropp said. “I am glad I can get in and try to help the team.”

The team started with a 3-1 record. They competed against Cedar Rapids Jefferson on Friday, December 15 and Cedar Rapids Kennedy on Tuesday, December 21. They look to continue their hustle on Friday, January 5 against Cedar Rapids Prairie.

Will Hanigan

Sports Writer