The GHS boys’ basketball team went 1415,4-4 and exited the first round of the state tournament with a 72-57 loss to Academy. “The Academy game was a great opportunity for our younger players to step up—they showed the future of the program is in good hands,” said GHS head basketball coach Landon Chavez.
“This season was a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team,” said Chavez. “From start to finish we had tremendous growth, resilience and a commitment to playing the game.
Chavez had a special message to his seniors who were “the heart and soul” of his program. “Their leadership, effort and passion have set the standards for those who follow,” said Chavez.
“Each of them has played a crucial role in shaping the culture of this program whether through their play on the court or work behind the scenes.”
Chavez celebrated and congratulated Boudy Melonas on making the All-State team as an honorable mention and making the 1st team All-District and John “JJ” Horacek for making the first team All-District as well. “These two have been the backbone of our program–stepping into leadership roles from the moment they arrived as freshmen.” Chavez added, “As captains they led by example”.
Haracek said of his senior year season, “We had a really good season the team grew a lot and we became the team our coach wanted us to become— though we didn't get a far as we wanted.”
Haracek added that was “grateful” making 1st team All-District that “all his hard work” had paid off.
“Making both All-District and All-State mean a lot—showed how much work I’ve put in and how I performed all year– it shows I was doing something right all along,” said Melonas of his accolades.
Chavez had accolades for all his seniors, “We are going to miss our senior group tremendously –in the way they led, the intensity they brought and unwavering commitment– their impact goes beyond their stats”.
In addition to Melonas and Horacek the Pirates will graduate Dominick Gonzales, Roberto Chavez, Fabian Pena, Uriah Gill, Keaton Long and Mathew “Matty” Trujillo. Gonzales, Melonas and Horacek also earned All-Academic honors.
The Lady Pirates, who ended the season 10-17 and 2-6 will graduate six seniors: Amy Salazar, Shiann Medina, Aubrhyana Garcia, Angelina Meza, Lariahis Dediderio, Suri Kiyiti.
Kiyiti posted on the Lady Pirates social media that she, “Wanted to end (the season) it with a bang, make memories and make fans proud of us.”
Junior guard Promise Garcia made the first team All-District and Aubrhyana Garcia, Amy Salazar and Demi Martinez made honorable mention. Promise Garcia said “Our chemistry and bond,” was a highlight to the season.