The annual Students vs. Teachers Basketball Game at the pep rally brought excitement, competition, and a chance for redemption after last year’s buzzer-beater loss to the teachers. With both sides ready to battle for bragging rights, the crowd was eager to see who would come out on top.

Philip Ernst (10), one of the student players, shared his approach before tip-off.

“Go out there, play as hard as we can, full-court press the teachers, and get crisp passes to the students,” Ernst (10) said.

Though some believed the students had an athletic edge, Ernst (10) thought otherwise.

“I think the playing field is pretty level because I think we have some good talent, but there are some teachers that also know how to play some good ball.” Ernst (10) said.

Preparation was key for the students, and Ernst took it seriously.

“I’ve been playing at the YMCA, getting shots up, because I’m only shooting threes,” Ernst (10) said. “You’d have to ask Jasper Weston our coach about the game plan—I’m not sure.”

On the other side of the court, Mr. Rainwater, a World History and U.S. History teacher, brought his own experience into play.

“I played basketball in high school and most of the time growing up,” Rainwater said. “My strategy? I’ll run the floor.”

He also believed teamwork gave the teachers a distinct edge.

“The students are gonna be ball hogs, just shoot a bunch of shots, not pass the ball,” Rainwater said.

Both teams had their eye on key matchups. For Ernst, certain teachers posed a real challenge. “Definitely either Coach Hodge or Coach Mahon—they know how to play ball,” Ernst (10) said. “I just gotta watch out for Mr. Pohill.”

Meanwhile, Rainwater admitted he wasn’t familiar with his competition.

“Ironically, I don’t know any of the students. They’re mostly seniors. I didn’t actually teach them, so I don’t know any of them.” Rainwater said.

With students packed into the gym, the crowd’s energy was expected to be electric.

“I think the crowd will be hyped,” Ernst (10) said. “I’m in SGA, and we made a lot of posters for the students to hold up and cheer for, so it’ll be hype.”

Rainwater agreed that the atmosphere would be intense.

“Hyper one out,” Rainwater said.

For Ernst (10), a student victory would mean major celebrations.

“We’ll definitely rush the court, and then it’ll definitely be a flex, especially after last year when we lost on a buzzer-beater from Coach Hodge.” Ernst (10) said.

As for the teachers, Rainwater was confident in their chances.

“We’re gonna win, and we’re gonna have fun,” Rainwater said.

Ernst (10) had a message for the faculty.

“Keep your head up. We’re coming after you.” Ernst (10) said.