PINCKNEY — The girls got started last week. Now it’s the boys’ turn.
The boys basketball season gets underway this evening for some schools, the first test after a couple weeks of workouts, practices and scrimmages.
While everyone involved is happy to test themselves against others, there’s still a bit of nerves for both coaches and players as the season begins.
“You never, ever feel ready your first game,” Pinckney coach Tom Reason said. “I don’t think anyone ever does. ”
The Pirates are home against past and future Southeastern Conference foe Tecumseh tonight, a game that can be heard beginning at around 7:15 p.m. on The Livingston Post.
“I’m just excited to play ball with the guys I’ve been playing ball with for years now,” said Kolton Pavlicek, whose season ended with an ACL tear last season. After a diligent rehab, he returned to the football team last season and was practicing with a brace on the knee Tuesday.
“I’m excited,” he added. “I’m glad to be back, ready to play.”
For Reason, who was a three-sport star, including basketball, at Pinckney, playing Tecumseh brings back memories.
“One of my favorite games ever in high school was (played) at the other gym for a league championship,” he said. “It was one of the most packed (stands) I’ve ever seen in my life, so I have good memories of Tecumseh.”
But Reason and the Pirates go into tonight’s game with the Indians knowing they will play them twice next season, but knowing almost nothing about this year’s team.
“When we play the Brightons and Howells, we know what’s what and who’s who.” Reason said. “I have no idea what Tecumseh (does). It’s like a summer tournament game, and they probably don’t know much about us.”
Reason is still learning his team, too.
“We graduated a few starters and a lot of playing time, so we have guys who are new to the set,” he said. “My biggest goal in game one is that everyone is on the same page and don’t turn the ball over. The first, I’ll say, four games , the team that turns the ball over the least and rebounds the best is going to win because you’re going to get more shots, more stuff going. … Turnovers are a big, big indicator. If we don’t turn it over — this is a good shooting team — we’re going to get shots. We’ll be fine.”
