In just its sixth season, the Great Crossing Boys Basketball team reached the pinnacle of success, dramatically capturing the state title. Led by Head Coach Steve Page, the team finished an incredible 27-game win streak and emerged as one of the most dominant forces in Kentucky high school basketball.
Key Contributors on the Court
The team’s success was powered by Malachi Moreno, who posted an impressive 22 points, 15 rebounds, and 4 blocks per game, dominating on both ends of the floor. Vince Dawson III was also a key contributor, averaging 18 points and 5 rebounds, proving himself as a versatile 3-level scorer.
Other vital pieces to the team’s success were LJ Holman (11 ppg, 3 apg, 3 rpg), who ran the offense, and Gage Richardson (9 ppg, 4 apg), who made his mark as an all-around player.
Defining Moments of the Season
One of the most memorable moments came during an early-season game against Bellaire, Texas, where the team won on a 30-foot buzzer-beater, capping a 12-3 run to finish the game. This win, despite not playing their best, gave the team a tremendous confidence boost, and it set the stage for what would be an unforgettable season.
“We didn’t think we played well, but finding a way to win that game made us believe we could win no matter the situation,” said Coach Page.
Player Growth and Key Contributions
Brady Orem, a 6'7" freshman, stepped up when the team faced adversity. After an injury to Holman, Orem started the last two games of the state tournament and played a crucial role in the team’s success.
Responding to Adversity
Throughout the season, the team faced multiple challenges, including an injury to starting point guard LJ Holman during the state tournament. Despite these setbacks, the team maintained composure and rallied behind each other, with new players stepping up when needed.
“We kept plugging away, knowing we were the best team in the state,” Coach Page remarked. “We didn’t let injuries or challenges define us.”
The Impact of the Senior Class
The senior class, which helped propel the program to new heights, was crucial to the success of the season. With a record of 126-19 over four years, including two regional titles and one state championship, this group laid the foundation for the program’s future success.
“These seniors put our program on the map,” Page said. “They set the standard for future generations.”
Looking Forward
As the program continues to grow, the returning players are already aware of the high expectations. With the knowledge gained from the senior class’s success, they’re ready to carry the torch. Additionally, some talented players have yet to showcase their full potential, and Coach Page is excited to see them take the next step.
“We’ve built something special, and the younger guys are eager to keep it going,” he added.
Offseason Goals
The focus for the offseason is to give the younger, less experienced players more opportunities to gain valuable game time and experience to prepare for next season.
“We want to get our younger guys some experience to keep the program moving forward,” Page noted.
, who ran the offense, and Gage Richardson (9 ppg, 4 apg), who made his mark as an all-around player.
Defining Moments of the Season
One of the most memorable moments came during an early-season game against Bellaire, Texas, where the team won on a 30-foot buzzer-beater, capping a 12-3 run to finish the game. This win, despite not playing their best, gave the team a tremendous confidence boost, and it set the stage for what would be an unforgettable season.
“We didn’t think we played well, but finding a way to win that game made us believe we could win no matter the situation,” said Coach Page.
Player Growth and Key Contributions
Brady Orem, a 6'7)
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