With an astounding 10 seniors on this year’s basketball team, the program is rich in experience in talent. The players enter the region tournament this week (February 7-8) as the #1 seed with a 22-3 record, and in both 2017 and 2018 they were region champions and state runners-up. They also set a school record for season wins last year, going 28-4.

“It’s been a great experience playing for this program and growing with my teammates and coaches,” senior point guard Matt Gonzalo said.

Matt and his twin brother Brian are two of the biggest reasons for the program’s success. They have been playing with the varsity team since their freshman year.

In January, Matt became the all-time leader in assists at St. Pius in a victory over Stephens County, and earlier this week he was named the region 8-AAAA player of the year.

“Matt Gonzalo breaking the assist record is an outstanding achievement for a great player and even better friend,” senior fan Nick Kosek said.

Brian and fellow seniors Niko Broadway and Zach Ranson were 1st team all-region selections.

One of the biggest highlights of the season so far was winning the Christmas Classic, an annual tournament hosted by St. Pius that features Catholic basketball programs from all over the country. The Golden Lions defeated Loyola Blakefield (MD) in an exciting 72-68 OT victory in the championship game.

Broadway hit a clutch 3-pointer to help seal the win, and he was named tournament MVP.

“This year’s tournament was a fun experience and I am glad we were able to win it as seniors,” Broadway said.

Most of the seniors have been involved with the basketball program since 6th grade, and they have grown close to their teammates and coaches over the years.

“I have had the pleasure of coaching these special kids and have been growing with them for a long time now,” head coach Aaron Parr said. “It will be hard to watch them leave, but the ride has meant a lot and I am glad that they have grown into hardworking young men.”

As they prepare to start the state tournament next week, the team is determined to win a title after falling just short the past two seasons..

“Were focused and ready to achieve our goal of bringing a championship to this program and school,” senior Steven Seramur said.

Regardless of the outcome, this group of boys can walk away knowing they’ve left their mark of success.

“I cannot wait to see what the future holds for the program and the future success they will have,” Brian said. “Pius basketball has meant everything to me over the past years and I am glad to know that the future is bright for this team.”