Parkland Boys Basketball Eyes Strong Season Despite Injuries

The Parkland High School boys basketball team is gearing up for a promising season, despite some early challenges due to injuries among key players. The squad, which is one of the largest in Pennsylvania, has had to adapt following the football season’s impact on its roster. In a recent District 11 6A football final on November 14, star running back and linebacker TJ Lawrence suffered a slight fracture of his fibula, sidelining him for approximately six to eight weeks. This injury places his return around mid-January, significantly affecting the basketball team as it begins its regular season.

Last season, Lawrence contributed significantly to the Trojans, averaging 7.4 points per game. His performance was crucial as the team advanced to win the District 11 championship and two state playoff games. Alongside him, another football player, Blake Nassry, led the scoring with an average of 14.2 points per game. Despite the loss of Lawrence, head coach Eddie Ohlson remains optimistic, citing the depth of his roster as a key factor in overcoming this setback.

“Losing someone of his caliber is tough, but we see this as an opportunity for other players to step up,” Ohlson stated. “One player who has really emerged is Javian Porter. He has shown great promise over the summer and fall, and we expect him to excel in this role.”

Porter, a senior guard, expressed his eagerness to rise to the challenge. “TJ is definitely going to be missed, but we’re all working hard to fill that gap,” he noted. “Communication and teamwork are vital, and I need to take on a bigger defensive role to support the team.”

The transition from football to basketball for players like Porter has been swift. “They got right back into it,” Porter said, highlighting the experience and determination of the senior players who are committed to winning.

Among the other players expected to make significant contributions this season is junior quarterback Finn Coen, along with freshman Marcus Temchattin, who is poised to earn valuable playing time. Coach Ohlson emphasized the team’s preparation, noting, “We played over 30 games during the summer. Basketball has truly become a year-round sport for us.”

To bolster the team’s competitive edge, Ohlson has arranged a rigorous nonleague schedule that includes matchups against formidable opponents such as Berks Catholic, Penncrest, and St. Joe’s Prep. These games will be instrumental in preparing the team for the postseason.

The Trojans concluded last season with a record of 19-10 and are aiming to replicate their success. They averaged 57.2 points per game, while allowing 44.7 points, showcasing a strong defensive strategy. Notably, Parkland has not experienced a losing season since 2010-11.

As the season opener approaches on December 4, 2023, against Allen, the team is focused on unity and resilience. Ohlson’s third year as head coach has seen him compile an impressive record of 45-16, and he has high expectations for this group.

The Trojans are determined to build on their previous successes, with the goal of securing another District 11 championship and making a deep run in the state tournament. With players eager to step into leadership roles and a coaching strategy centered on development and competition, Parkland’s basketball program remains one to watch in the upcoming season.