The boys basketball team has been focusing on defensive drills in preparation for its first game of the season Tuesday night in the Hillsboro High School tournament.

“We have been doing a lot of 5-on-5 scrimmages to get us ready defensively for the season,” said senior center Jake Sander.

The team has high expectations for the tournament due to it’s third place finish in the tournament last season and added chemistry for the team this year.

“We have hopes to win it,” said Sander. “We really want to meet the goals we have set for ourselves.”

Sander also cited improved chemistry and bonding on the team.

“Everyone likes each other,” said Sander. “We all get along well on and off the court.”

The team will play Festus High School Tuesday night at 6 p.m.