Parkland Basketball Faces Early Challenges but Eyes Strong Finish

Parkland High School’s boys basketball team is gearing up for the 2023-2024 season, facing the challenge of starting without key player TJ Lawrence. The junior running back and linebacker suffered a slight fracture in his fibula during the District 11 6A football final against Easton on November 14, 2023. Lawrence is expected to be sidelined for approximately six to eight weeks, which places his return around mid-January.

Despite this setback, Eddie Ohlson, in his third season as head coach, remains optimistic about the team’s prospects. Last season, Lawrence contributed an average of 7.4 points per game, ranking second on the team behind teammate Blake Nassry, who averaged 14.2 points. The Trojans, who won the District 11 championship and advanced to the state playoffs, also lost in the quarterfinals of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference (EPC) tournament.

Ohlson acknowledged the impact of losing Lawrence but expressed confidence in the depth of his roster. “It’s tough to lose someone of his caliber, but we look at it as a great opportunity for some of these kids who have put in a lot of work,” he said. Javian Porter, a senior guard, is expected to step up in Lawrence’s absence. Porter reflected on the team’s resilience, stating, “We’re building it back. We’re communicating and playing as a team.”

Porter emphasized the importance of defense and teamwork as the team adapts to the absence of their star player. The transition for the football players back to basketball practice has been swift, according to Porter, who noted that the seniors are eager to win. Finn Coen, the junior quarterback from the football team, is also anticipated to contribute significantly to the basketball squad.

The Trojans have prepared intensively for the upcoming season, having played over 30 games during summer training. “Basketball has become a year-round sport,” Ohlson explained. “This group has been together for a long time and had success last year. They see what it takes.”

Parkland’s schedule for the season includes a challenging lineup of non-league opponents, including Berks Catholic, Central York, and Archbishop Carroll. This rigorous preparation aims to position the team well for the postseason. Ohlson hopes that these early tests will help his players gain valuable experience as they aim for another successful campaign.

In terms of last season’s performance, Parkland finished with a record of 19-10, tying for second place in the EPC Lehigh County Division with a 12-4 record. They also made a strong showing in the PIAA tournament, defeating Downingtown West and Scranton before falling to Imhotep in the quarterfinals.

As the new season unfolds, the Trojans will rely on key players, including Alex Barrera, Yuri Barrera, and Ryan Kearney, to maintain their competitive edge. Ohlson has confidence in the team’s ability to adapt and overcome challenges, stating, “We always set high goals for them. They’re excited to build off some of the success we had last year.”

The Trojans are set to open their season against Allen High School on December 4, 2023, with high hopes for a strong start despite the challenges ahead. The team’s commitment to improvement and collaboration will be crucial as they seek to continue their legacy of success in Pennsylvania high school basketball.