Forest Park High School Boys Basketball 2025 Winter Season Recap: A Historic Year of Growth and Grit
As the 2024-2025 boys basketball season at Forest Park High School concludes, Head Coach Mafafui (Mak) Dogbatse reflects on a historic campaign for the VA Basketball team. With a blend of seasoned leadership and emerging talent, the team recorded its best-ever season while facing injuries, tight games, and a demanding schedule.
Here’s an in-depth look at the year’s highlights, key players, challenges, and what lies ahead for Forest Park basketball.
Leaders Who Set the Tone
This season, Forest Park’s success was anchored by two senior stalwarts: Ethan Salvatierra and Brandon Edozie.
Ethan, a senior point guard, made a remarkable return after missing his entire junior season due to injury. His impact was felt immediately. Known for his exceptional ball-handling, quickness, and scoring versatility, Ethan averaged as the team’s leading scorer and playmaker.
“Ethan’s ability to score from all three levels—whether from deep beyond the arc, pull-up jumpers, floaters, or finishing at the rim—opened up the offense,” Coach Dogbatse said. “His passing is second to none, and his toughness and relentless work ethic make him special.”
Brandon Edozie, a four-year starting center and a 4-time first-team all-district honoree, continued to dominate in the paint. This season, Brandon elevated his rebounding game, leading both Forest Park and the district. His expanded offensive game included scoring with his back to the basket and improved passing, showing his growth as a versatile big man.
“Both Ethan and Brandon led by example,” Dogbatse emphasized. “Their humility, tireless work ethic, and team-first mentality made it easy for others to follow. Having your best players also be your hardest workers creates a strong culture.”
A Season of Milestones and Momentum
The season was a historic one for Forest Park, culminating in a school-record 20 wins against just 7 losses. The highlight was winning the Cardinal District Tournament Championship on the road, an achievement that underscored the team’s resilience and talent.
Additionally, Forest Park celebrated three players earning all-district and all-region recognition, with numerous others receiving honorable mentions.
Coach Dogbatse acknowledged the typical ups and downs but expressed pride in the team’s overall accomplishments.
Defining Moments: The Snowstorm Stretch
A pivotal week came immediately after a heavy snowstorm when Forest Park faced a grueling schedule of four games in five nights, including three district battles and a tough out-of-area road game. The team’s toughness and stamina were tested.
“We went 3–1 that week, with the only loss being a heartbreaker—a triple overtime defeat to our district rival,” Dogbatse recalled. “That stretch displayed a lot of toughness and brought our team closer.”
Moments like these cemented the team’s identity and belief that they could compete under pressure and adversity.
Rising Stars Step Up
As the season progressed, several players stepped into bigger roles, providing vital contributions off the bench and as key reserves.
Senior guard Corey Santana became the team’s spark plug. Known for his lightning-quick defense and ball pressure, Corey changed games with his intensity and effort. He also contributed offensively, rounding out his all-around impact on the team.
Junior guards Antonio Jones and Jamison Johnson both faced injury setbacks entering the season but proved vital once healthy. Antonio, a multi-sport athlete and all-district football player, brought scoring ability at the rim, outside shooting, toughness, and playmaking.
Jamison, making his first varsity season debut, showed defensive prowess, rebounding ability, and scoring skill from the guard position. Both players’ returns added depth and competitiveness in the crucial second half of the season.
Battling Through Adversity
Injuries challenged Forest Park throughout the season. Alongside Antonio and Jamison’s setbacks, senior guard Donavan Reid, expected to be a major contributor, lost nearly the entire senior season to injury. Junior forward Kellen Lewis missed the first month recovering from an injury as well.
Coach Dogbatse praised how these players remained fully engaged despite being sidelined.
“Ethan’s return from his junior-year injury set the blueprint on how to battle back,” Dogbatse said. “All injured players attended practice and team functions daily, supporting their teammates in every way. We’re very proud of how they handled adversity.”
This collective resilience was a hallmark of the team’s culture and contributed to their success.
Senior Class Leadership: Selfless and Team-First
The senior class brought much more than scoring; they brought a selfless leadership style that permeated the program.
“These seniors are team-first young men,” said Dogbatse. “They had clear goals individually and for the team. They enjoyed being around each other and the younger players.”
The class actively mentored the underclassmen—two freshmen and five sophomores who made the varsity roster—helping them acclimate and grow. Their vocal leadership and consistent energy set a tone recognized and appreciated by everyone involved in the program.
Looking Ahead: Building on a Strong Foundation
With most key players returning next season, Forest Park is positioned to continue its upward trajectory.
“Our returning players understand the example left by this senior class,” Dogbatse said. “We look forward to the challenges ahead, knowing we must work hard to keep pushing.”
The team’s offseason focus will be on improving pace while maintaining disciplined, team-oriented basketball.
Offseason Goals: Speed, Discipline, and Defense
Coach Dogbatse outlined the offseason priorities succinctly: “We want to improve our pace as a team while maintaining discipline and playing together. But, as always, defense comes first.”
This emphasis on defense and team cohesion reflects the program’s identity and will be the foundation for growth as the players develop.
Access to Stats and More Information
For fans and media interested in detailed stats or further insights, Coach Dogbatse is available by email at dogbatmk@pwcs.edu and can provide comprehensive data on the team’s performance this season.
Conclusion: A Season to Remember and a Future to Anticipate
The 2024-2025 Forest Park High School boys basketball team set a new benchmark for success with a school-record 20 wins, a district championship, and a resilient spirit in the face of adversity. The leadership of seniors Ethan Salvatierra and Brandon Edozie, combined with the emergence of talented juniors and the depth of the roster, made this season a memorable chapter in the program’s history.
From overcoming injuries to grinding through a punishing schedule, the team demonstrated toughness, heart, and unity. With a strong group returning next year and clear offseason goals, the future of Forest Park basketball is bright.
Coach Mak Dogbatse and his players have built a foundation for sustained success, one that promises to keep Forest Park competitive in the seasons to come.
 Dogbatse reflects on a historic campaign for the VA Basketball team. With a blend of seasoned leadership and emerging talent, the team recorded its best-ever season while facing injuries, tight games, and a demanding schedule.
Here’s an in-depth look at the year’s highlights, key players, challenges, and what lies ahead for Forest Park basketball.
Leaders Who Set the Tone
This season, Forest Park’s success was anchored by two senior stalwarts: Ethan Salvatierra and Brandon Edozie.
Ethan, a senior point guard, made a remarkable return after missing his entire junior season due to injury. His impact was felt immediately. Known for his exceptional ball-handling, quickness, and scoring versatility, Ethan averaged as the team’s leading scorer and playmaker.
“Ethan’s ability to score from all three levels—whether from deep beyond the arc, pull-up jumpers, floaters, or finishing at the rim—opened up the offense,” Coach Dogbatse said. “His passing is second to none, and his toughness and relentless work ethic make him special.”
Brandon Edozie, a four-year starting center and a 4-time first-team all-district honoree, continued to dominate in the paint. This season, Brandon elevated his rebounding game, leading both Forest Park and the district. His expanded offensive game included scoring with his back to the basket and improved passing, showing his growth as a versatile big man.
“Both Ethan and Brandon led by example,” Dogbatse emphasized. “Their humility, tireless work ethic, and team-first mentality made it easy for others to follow. Having your best players also be your hardest workers creates a strong culture.”
A Season of Milestones and Momentum
The season was a historic one for Forest Park, culminating in a school-record 20 wins against just 7 losses. The highlight was winning the Cardinal District Tournament Championship on the road, an achievement that underscored the team’s resilience and talent.
Additionally, Forest Park celebrated three players earning all-district and all-region recognition, with numerous others receiving honorable mentions.
Coach Dogbatse acknowledged the typical ups and downs but expressed pride in the team’s overall accomplishments.
Defining Moments: The Snowstorm Stretch
A pivotal week came immediately after a heavy snowstorm when Forest Park faced a grueling schedule of four games in five nights, including three district battles and a tough out-of-area road game. The team’s toughness and stamina were tested.
“We went 3–1 that week, with the only loss being a heartbreaker—a triple overtime defeat to our district rival,” Dogbatse recalled. “That stretch displayed a lot of toughness and brought our team closer.”
Moments like these cemented the team’s identity and belief that they could compete under pressure and adversity.
Rising Stars Step Up
As the season progressed, several players stepped into bigger roles, providing vital contributions off the bench and as key reserves.
Senior guard Corey Santana became the team’s spark plug. Known for his lightning-quick defense and ball pressure, Corey changed games with his intensity and effort. He also contributed offensively, rounding out his all-around impact on the team.
Junior guards Antonio Jones and Jamison Johnson both faced injury setbacks entering the season but proved vital once healthy. Antonio, a multi-sport athlete and all-district football player, brought scoring ability at the rim, outside shooting, toughness, and playmaking.
Jamison, making his first varsity season debut, showed defensive prowess, rebounding ability, and scoring skill from the guard position. Both players’ returns added depth and competitiveness in the crucial second half of the season.
Battling Through Adversity
Injuries challenged Forest Park throughout the season. Alongside Antonio and Jamison’s setbacks, senior guard Donavan Reid, expected to be a major contributor, lost nearly the entire senior season to injury. Junior forward Kellen Lewis missed the first month recovering from an injury as well.
Coach Dogbatse praised how these players remained fully engaged despite being sidelined.
“Ethan’s return from his junior-year injury set the blueprint on how to battle back,” Dogbatse said. “All injured players attended practice and team functions daily, supporting their teammates in every way. We’re very proud of how they handled adversity.”
This collective resilience was a hallmark of the team’s culture and contributed to their success.
Senior Class Leadership: Selfless and Team-First
The senior class brought much more than scoring; they brought a selfless leadership style that permeated the program.
“These seniors are team-first young men,” said Dogbatse. “They had clear goals individually and for the team. They enjoyed being around each other and the younger players.”
The class actively mentored the underclassmen—two freshmen and five sophomores who made the varsity roster—helping them acclimate and grow. Their vocal leadership and consistent energy set a tone recognized and appreciated by everyone involved in the program.
Looking Ahead: Building on a Strong Foundation
With most key players returning next season, Forest Park is positioned to continue its upward trajectory.
“Our returning players understand the example left by this senior class,” Dogbatse said. “We look forward to the challenges ahead, knowing we must work hard to keep pushing.”
The team’s offseason focus will be on improving pace while maintaining disciplined, team-oriented basketball.
Offseason Goals: Speed, Discipline, and Defense
Coach Dogbatse outlined the offseason priorities succinctly: “We want to improve our pace as a team while maintaining discipline and playing together. But, as always, defense comes first.”
This emphasis on defense and team cohesion reflects the program’s identity and will be the foundation for growth as the players develop.
Access to Stats and More Information
For fans and media interested in detailed stats or further insights, Coach Dogbatse is available by email at dogbatmk@pwcs.edu and can provide comprehensive data on the team’s performance this season.
Conclusion: A Season to Remember and a Future to Anticipate
The 2024-2025 Forest Park High School boys basketball team set a new benchmark for success with a school-record 20 wins, a district championship, and a resilient spirit in the face of adversity. The leadership of seniors Ethan Salvatierra and Brandon Edozie, combined with the emergence of talented juniors and the depth of the roster, made this season a memorable chapter in the program’s history.
From overcoming injuries to grinding through a punishing schedule, the team demonstrated toughness, heart, and unity. With a strong group returning next year and clear offseason goals, the future of Forest Park basketball is bright.
Coach Mak Dogbatse and his players have built a foundation for sustained success, one that promises to keep Forest Park competitive in the seasons to come.)
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