Highland Prep Basketball 2025 Winter Season Recap: Growth, Grit, and a Promising Future
As the winter basketball season wrapped up, Coach Trent Hill of Highland Prep reflected on a year marked by growth, challenges, and moments that showcased the heart of a young but determined team. Coming off a tough summer and a major roster turnover, the Stallions fought hard to reach their goal of making the play-in game, finishing with a respectable 16-9 record in the competitive 3A division.
Key Contributors and Team Chemistry
Coach Hill highlighted several players who made a significant impact this season, particularly the group that often shared the floor and built chemistry through teamwork and mutual support.
“Terrance Byrd, Paxton Clarke, Aeden Calini, and Marcel Pratt all played well together. They worked off each other and made each other better,” Hill said.
This core formed the backbone of the team’s on-court identity. Terrance Byrd, a freshman standout, emerged as one of the state’s best young players, though it took him some time to adjust physically to varsity basketball. Early in the year, he struggled with finishing near the basket, but as his body caught up, so did his confidence and production.
Paxton Clarke, Aeden Calini, and Marcel Pratt complemented Byrd well, each fulfilling their roles to contribute to the team’s success. Hill mentioned that finding a consistent fifth starter was a challenge, but Quanell Watkins began to fill that gap in the midseason, providing valuable minutes. Off the bench, Gerrard Agbiwe brought toughness and defensive energy, adding depth to the roster.
Overcoming a Tough Offseason
Coach Hill did not sugarcoat the reality of their summer: a 3-22 record against varsity teams and losing eight players from the prior year meant Highland Prep was essentially rebuilding. With a largely inexperienced roster, the team had a lot of work to do before the season started.
Hill implemented a strict approach early on:
“Each player was given roles. If they didn’t play hard or strayed outside their role, they were subbed out immediately. I set the tone early, and once they understood I meant business, we started growing as a team.”
The players bought into this disciplined mindset, which allowed them to develop cohesiveness and identity despite the youth and turnover.
Adjusting to the 3A Transition
Highland Prep’s move up to 3A brought new challenges, particularly with travel. Long road trips tested the team’s endurance and preparation. However, Coach Hill noted that the level of competition was comparable to 2A since they had maintained a strong schedule the previous year.
The team had to adjust quickly, especially since many players came off the JV team the year before and were still acclimating to varsity speed and physicality.
Defining Moments and Breakthrough Wins
One game stood out as a defining moment for Highland Prep this season: their win over Rancho Solano.
“That victory really showed the players they could compete with the big boys,” Hill reflected.
This win boosted the team’s confidence and validated the hard work they put in over the summer and season. It demonstrated that, despite youth and roster turnover, the Stallions could hold their own against top-tier opponents.
Player Development and Growth
The development of freshman Terrance Byrd was a highlight of the season. Initially, his biggest hurdle was adjusting to the physical demands of varsity basketball.
“He missed a lot of lay-ups and bunnies early on, but once his body adjusted, he took off.”
As the season progressed, the team as a whole grew faster and more cohesive, improving their tempo and execution. This growth was vital to their success.
Seniors on the team also played a crucial role in guiding younger players. Their leadership helped the team understand Coach Hill’s expectations on and off the court.
Senior Leadership and Team Culture
Coach Hill praised the senior class for the leadership and knowledge they brought.
“They helped the young guys understand how I operate, schoolwork, and balancing everything. I’m very proud of what they accomplished at Highland Prep.”
The seniors set a standard for energy and performance, helping to foster a culture that values hard work and accountability.
Looking Ahead: Future and Offseason Goals
With the season concluded, Coach Hill is already thinking about the offseason and future.
“Each season is different, and that’s the exciting part. It comes down to who works hard in the offseason and who doesn’t. The culture I’ve created is that if you work hard, it will pay off.”
The program has enjoyed success over the past four years, and Coach Hill believes the foundation is in place to keep building.
Offseason priorities are simple but critical:
“They just need to get in the gym and work on their game!”
Improvement in skills, strength, and conditioning will be key areas of focus to prepare for next year’s challenges.
Final Thoughts: A Season of Progress
Highland Prep’s 2025 winter season was one of progress through adversity. From a difficult summer to tough travel schedules and roster turnover, the Stallions showed resilience and heart. Key players stepped up, roles were clearly defined, and the team grew closer with each game.
Making the play-in game was the season’s stated goal—and achieving it was a testament to the players’ dedication and Coach Hill’s leadership.
As the program looks forward to next year, the culture of hard work and accountability remains the cornerstone of Highland Prep basketball’s identity.
Stats and Coverage
For fans looking to follow the team’s stats and performances, Highland Prep’s season stats are available on MaxPreps, providing a detailed look at individual and team performances throughout the year.
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