BY ADAM THEYE

The 2013-2014 boys varsity basketball team is about to get a makeover. Just one year ago, Terry Sparks was going to be the only senior on the basketball team. This all changed after seniors Jason Brokamp, Danny Renner, Brendan Woodruff, and James Allen joined the team.

Brokamp, Renner, and Woodruff all played their sophomore year and took their junior year off.  Allen, however, will be playing for the team for the first time. But why did these seniors decide to return this year?

Renner says this about rejoining the team: “I thought I would enjoy playing this year and I am addicted to the competition.”

The reuniting of the seniors to the basketball team will impact the team. Brokamp says, “I decided to come back because I miss the competitiveness and intensity that the high school games have, and I wanted to use the skills I have to help the team win.”

Brokamp, along with the other seniors will play a vital role in propelling the team to the playoffs. Brokamp says, “(The team needs to) improve our already strong defense and fast-break part of the game and [I] am working to have a stronger offensive and passing presence as well.”

Brokamp emphasizes the fact that the intensity level from rec ball to varsity ball is much different and that earning your play time based on how hard you play.

Brokamp says, “The hardest thing about coming back are the expectations the coaches have for you.”

Captain Terry Sparks, a four-year varsity player says,  “I feel this team is very special. I’m surrounded by a great group of guys this year.”

The expectations for Mariemont basketball are always high, Sparks says, “I cant wait to step on the court with these guys. This team will shock a lot of people.”