Tohpekaliga High School Boys Basketball Season Preview

The 2024–25 basketball season for Tohpekaliga High School was one marked by grit, growth, and relentless effort. Led by Head Coach Jesus Merced, the Tigers proved themselves to be a tough matchup every night, regardless of what the win-loss column showed. Their competitive spirit and commitment to playing hard never wavered. Key Contributors & Standout Performers The Tigers’ offensive punch was led by Roberto Rivera, Jesiah Merced, and Derrick Lewis. Rivera was the team’s top scorer, highlighted by a stretch of five consecutive games with 18+ points. Lewis brought timely shot-making and toughness, while Jesiah served as the team’s anchor, controlling the offense and locking down defensively. Defensive strength came from Jayden Barthelemy and Brian Recies, who both provided tenacious on-ball pressure and energy on that end of the court. Season Summary & Highlights Despite not having a record that reflected their effort, the Tigers fought hard in every game and quickly earned the respect of their opponents. “Opposing teams knew when we came in, it was going to be a tough night,” said Coach Merced. One of the most remarkable stories of the season was the development of Brian Recies, who went from nearly being cut to starting in nearly every game. His consistency and drive became a symbol of the team’s commitment to growth. Responding to Adversity The Tigers faced their share of adversity with close losses and tough breaks, but they always bounced back with heart. “Our guys came back the next day and played like they had won the night before,” said Coach Merced. “They consistently played with their hearts.” Senior Leadership The senior class set the tone for the program, showing up to every practice with passion and purpose. They were dedicated not just to their improvement but to mentoring the younger players and building a foundation for the future of the program. Looking Ahead Coach Merced is excited about the pieces returning next season—Derrick Lewis and Dominay Cain will be key leaders, both known for their toughness and team-first mentality. A promising freshman class is also developing quickly, giving the program depth and future potential. Offseason Focus This offseason, the emphasis will be on improving shooting and learning how to generate points in a variety of ways. With a strong core and hungry underclassmen, the Tigers are looking forward to taking the next step. Stats Team and player stats can be found on MaxPreps.