“They lost by what?” was the common phrase heard in the halls following MFS Boys’ Basketball’s tough defeat against ANC on Friday, January 6. The boys knew they were facing a tough opponent, but nobody expected an 81-13 defeat.

This was the team’s sixth loss; they currently have an 0-10 record in the regular season. Senior co-captain Arjan Chhabra commented on the team’s performance so far, saying that “even though we have lost games, we are always supporting each other, and more or less we are looking for improvement from each other, so when we play teams that are beatable we can go out and try to win.”

Support and teamwork are central principles to the Boys’ Basketball team. While this year has been a struggle on the scoreboard, the team’s spirit and dynamic remains unwavering: “I knew talent-wise we were lacking in some positions, but we had the heart to compete in most games,” said senior co-captain Aadit Pande, “but overall, the season has been a surprise not from our games but the dedication demonstrated by our teammates.”

The team has built a strong dynamic in the face of competitive opponents, going to team brunches and dinners, and spending time together before and after practices. Pande said, “our team’s lack of success has caused bumps in our journey as a unit. However we believe that success can be achieved with this team due to our strong chemistry and bond.”

The coaching staff, as well as the team leaders, have taken advantage of this building year for the Foxes, prioritizing the future of MFS basketball. Pande said that “the coaches are putting younger players in challenging situations in hopes of building character and adversity for the future years. As a captain I tend to push the young guys to their limits and see what they are capable of.”

The team leaders go the extra mile to help support the underclassmen. Max Steward ’26 commented, “The senior captains give support on and off the court. When we have late practice, Aadit and the others usually take the time to tutor and help us with our work. In practice they give tips on how to get better and lift us up when we make mistakes.”

While the future is uncertain, Pande is optimistic: “My goal is to win a few games but to most importantly change the culture of MFS basketball; I want to impact my teammates to help them become better players and people. Basketball is all about building community, but for this season in particular, my goal is to help build the character of each individual on the team.”