The 2024-25 Westonka boys basketball season is off and running, with the White Hawks starting strong, winning all three games last week. The season and home opener was played Dec. 3 against the St. Francis Fighting Saints. Led by 10 seniors, most of whom have played together for the past 10 years, the White Hawks secured an 80-47 win.

After shaking off some early first game nerves, the White Hawks settled into a rhythm back on the court, opening up a 10-point halftime lead. In the second half, the Hawks turned up their defensive pressure, resulting in countless steals and transition fastbreak layups.

Senior captain Cole Drill started the game and season in style with a pair of thunderous two-hand dunks. He also led all scorers with 21 points. Five other seniors joined in on a balanced scoring attack, including Lane Gordon with 13, and Jacob Orenge and George Eberhart with 11 each. 

On Dec. 5, the White Hawks traveled to the Academy of Holy Angels for an in-section away game. Holy Angels came out aggressive and strong, taking an early lead. The game was back and forth until the closing minutes of the first half when Max Kraay went off. The senior captain found his stroke, hitting a series of deep threes and propelling the Hawks to an eight-point first half lead.

In the second half, the White Hawks opened things up, getting some separation from the pesky Stars with a more concerted defensive effort and transition run game. Drill led the way, attacking the basket with numerous athletic plays. From there, the White Hawks cruised to an 85-55 victory. Kraay and Drill scored 25 points each.

On Dec. 7, Westonka battled another section opponent, Bloomington Kennedy (BK), this time back at the Nest, finishing with an 85-52 victory to go 3-0 on the season. This matchup was physical, with each team answering the other’s small runs with a couple of baskets. After a sluggish start, the White Hawks went into halftime with a seven-point lead.

They apparently made some effective halftime adjustments, as they outscored BK 16-2 in the first eight minutes of the second half.  Once again, the White Hawks were led by Kraay, who had 21 points. Sophomore Mika James chipped in 19 points, and Drill added 15.

Coach Andre Phillips, who’s been at the helm of the White Hawks for eight years, had this to say about the first week of the season: 

Our experience and chemistry shined this week to propel us to three victories. We’ve made some changes offensively and defensively that we feel best suit this group. Early returns are proving those changes were worth making and the boys are embracing this style of play. Great for us to get two early victories in our section, including two home wins. Looking forward to next week as we continue to build a program that will be competitive late in the season.

The White Hawks are back at it this Thursday, Dec. 12, with a home game against Monticello at 5 p.m. They will also play Two Rivers at the Target Center on Saturday the 14th. Tickets include a ticket to a future Timberwolves game. For ticket information, please email mwhsbasketballboosters@gmail.com. All are welcome to come support the team!