Pusch Ridge Christian Academy Boys Basketball: A Championship Season Built on Faith, Perseverance, and Team Unity
The 2024-25 winter basketball season will go down as one of the most memorable in the history of Pusch Ridge Christian Academy. Under the leadership of Varsity Head Coach Steve Solita, the Lions captured the 3A Conference Championship, capping off an extraordinary journey fueled by perseverance, faith, and unshakable team unity.
In a season filled with growth, milestones, and memorable wins, Coach Solita attributes the team’s ultimate success to a group of 11 dedicated athletes who played “For Him” — a powerful reminder of the faith-driven mission that defines the Pusch Ridge basketball program.
A Team Effort: 11 Players, One Purpose
While many teams ride the success of a few standout stars, this year’s Lions squad was a model of collective effort and humility. Coach Solita made it clear that each of the 11 players contributed meaningfully to the championship run.
“They played for Him,” Solita said, emphasizing the spiritual foundation of the team. This unifying focus translated into selfless play, relentless hustle, and an unwavering commitment to the group over individual accolades.
That being said, the core starting five of Isaac Hardeman, Noah McKinney, Santino Almazan, Ben Lambe, and Hunter Edmunds provided the backbone of the Lions' championship campaign. These athletes not only performed at a high level but also embraced leadership roles and set the tone with their work ethic and poise.
Each one stepped into a bigger role as the season progressed, evolving into reliable, composed leaders on the court. Behind them was a bench filled with capable and eager role players, who made key contributions in every game, ensuring that there was never a drop in intensity when substitutions were made.
The Season in Review: Champions of 3A
The Lions’ season was nothing short of stellar, culminating in the 3A Conference Championship. Coach Solita described the team’s performance as a steady climb that peaked at just the right time.
The defining stretch of the season came in February, when the team caught fire and never looked back. Riding an 11-game winning streak, Pusch Ridge surged through the most important part of their schedule and dominated the competition on their way to the state title.
That run was more than just a series of wins; it was the result of months of discipline, training, and learning to play as a cohesive unit. The momentum gained in those final games turned confidence into conviction — and conviction into a championship.
Key Moments and Turning Points
Every championship team faces trials that test their character and resilience. For the Lions, those moments came in the form of early-season challenges and the pressure of late-season expectations.
The team’s ability to stay focused, bounce back from adversity, and maintain composure under pressure became defining traits. Coach Solita captured this sentiment powerfully: “Perseverance produces character, character creates hope.” It’s a philosophy that carried the team through the ups and downs of the season — and one that ultimately helped them stand tallest when it mattered most.
Leadership and the Legacy of the Seniors
One of the pillars of the Lions’ success this season was the leadership of the senior class, which Coach Solita described as bringing “everything” to the program. With five seniors on the roster, the team had a strong veteran presence that provided direction, energy, and emotional balance.
These seniors had grown through the program and knew what it meant to wear the Pusch Ridge uniform — not just in terms of basketball skill, but in terms of faith, responsibility, and brotherhood. Their legacy is not only one of wins and titles, but of the example they set for the underclassmen.
They mentored their teammates, led by example, and always kept the bigger picture in mind: competing with integrity and representing their school and faith with pride.
Faith and Character: The Heart of the Program
Beyond the stats and trophies, what made this season truly special was the spirit that drove the team. Coach Solita consistently emphasized faith and character as the foundation for everything the team accomplished.
“What excites me most about the future of the program,” he said, “is the good character kids that are driven by their faith.”
That core belief shaped every practice, every game, and every moment of adversity. The players were not just teammates — they were brothers united in a mission greater than themselves.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future Built on a Strong Foundation
With a championship banner now hanging in the gym and a season full of lessons behind them, the future of Pusch Ridge basketball looks exceptionally bright.
While the team will graduate five seniors, the returning players are ready to step up. Coach Solita is excited about the strong character and drive of the underclassmen, who have already shown that they are ready to embrace leadership roles.
Offseason plans include June summer ball, a crucial time for developing chemistry, sharpening skills, and building new leaders. The coaching staff will continue to focus on holistic development, strengthening both the physical and spiritual dimensions of their athletes.
This offseason isn’t just about preparing for another title run — it’s about laying the groundwork for the kind of team that reflects the values of Pusch Ridge Christian Academy on and off the court.
Where to Find More
For those wanting to follow the team’s stats and performance history, the best place to go is MaxPreps. The platform provides detailed game results, player stats, and upcoming schedules for fans and families alike.
Final Reflections: A Season to Remember
The 2025 season will be remembered not just because of the trophy the Lions brought home, but because of the way they earned it — through unity, humility, grit, and unwavering faith.
Coach Steve Solita and his team embodied what it means to play “For Him,” making every game a testament to their values and a celebration of their bond as teammates. The result? A championship season that will live on in the memories of players, coaches, and the Pusch Ridge community for years to come.
As the Lions set their sights on continued growth and future glory, one thing is certain: the program is in good hands — spiritually, competitively, and culturally. And for that, the Pusch Ridge family can be proud.
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