On January 4, 2025, Varsity Boys Basketball kicked off the new year by reaching a new milestone of 1500 program wins. They accomplished this milestone after their win against the Rochelle Hubs, 91-74.
The total of 1500 wins was acquired under the coaching of head coach Ryan Vasquez, who has been a part of the Sterling basketball program for around 19 years.
“From my time as an assistant coach from 2006 to 2015 to stepping into the role of head coach in 2016, I’ve witnessed first-hand the dedication and passion that make this program special,” said Vasquez.
Sterling’s 17-point win over Rochelle is what secured the 1500th program win. Senior captain Kaedon Phillips led the Golden Warriors with a career-high 31 points, followed by the other two senior captains, Nico Battaglia and Maddux Osborn, with 14 and 12 respectively.
“This milestone was great to reach. It means a lot to put our team in the history books and to continue Sterling basketball’s success,” said Phillips.
Although there have been many key players over the years who have helped carry the program to this milestone, Vasquez believes that the program’s values and mindset is what has pushed the Warriors to this accomplishment the most.
“Our success has always been rooted in a team-first mentality. We’ve been successful because we’ve had leaders and teams who understand that it’s about us and not me. This milestone is a reflection of that collective effort, the shared sacrifices, and the unwavering commitment to the program’s success above all else,” shared Vasquez.
Sterling boys basketball players also believe that Vasquez’s coaching style has tremendously pushed them to succeeding this goal.
“Coach V pushes us every day in practice. He reminds us that what we want isn’t going to be given to us, and that we have to work for it,” said sophomore Quincy Maas.
With this milestone now being complete, the boys move forward with new goals set as their season continues.
“As a team we are looking to win a regional championship and even try to make it further,” said Battaglia. Sterling’s varsity last won a regional championship in their 2022-23 season, and look to take a shot at another one this season.
