On Tuesday, Feb. 14, the varsity boys’ basketball team faced off against district rival Vandegrift. Both teams had already qualified for a playoff spot, but this game determined placement and who they would play for the first round of playoffs. Westwood tied for second in the district with Round Rock. Both teams were 9-5 during district play. Although they had the same record, Round Rock ended up second because they beat Westwood both times. The Warriors finished the game with a win of 56-41.

The Warriors have had a strong season this year. They have won back-to-back district games, establishing themselves as a tough competitor for playoffs. 

Senior Gabriel Parr is entering his third varsity playoffs, and he is looking to improve again. In his sophomore year, the team lost in a first-round heartbreaker. Last year, they went out in the second round. This year, he is looking to lead his team throughout the playoffs. 

“Westlake is a very similar team to us; they play outstanding defense and have very good shooters,” Parr said. “I think that if we play well and execute, it is our game to win.”

Another senior leader, Henry Chuo, is excited about this game. There’s a lot at stake for him, this could potentially be his last career high school basketball game, but he often performs best under pressure. 

“I think that Westlake is a very good team, but with some good practice and preparation, we can definitely win this game,” Chuo said. “Each game could be my last, but that’s what fuels me.”

The next game will be on Monday, Feb. 20, at 7 p.m. against Westlake at Westwood.