State Champions! SBS Varsity Men’s Basketball Takes the Title

Second Baptist School varsity men’s basketball team achieved the ultimate goal—winning the TAPPS 5A State Championship. The historic victory marked the culmination of a season defined by perseverance, faith and camaraderie.

From the start, the team knew this season was different. “From the moment Coach Land got here, I knew we had something special,” said Shia Francis '26. “We could not have done it without God. In the doubts and the struggles, He was there.” The Eagles faced adversity but never wavered. “Even through the losses, we stayed together as a family—we had each other’s backs,” Francis added.

For Michael Pratt '25, this season reignited his passion for the game. “Coach Land and Coach Artis made me fall in love with basketball again,” he shared. “Seeing all our hard work come together in a championship means everything.”

The team’s potential became clear in key matchups, proving their ability to compete at the highest level. “It took a minute to get going, but in games against St. John’s and St. Francis, we showed what we were capable of,” said Reese Alston '27. “All our hard work paid off—we put our faith in God.”

Canon Toon '26 embodied that relentless mindset. Just one day after competing in the football state championship in December, he stepped onto the basketball court, ready to give his all. “I knew we had potential, so we played hard, had fun, and did whatever it took to win,” Toon said.

Reflecting on the season, Coach Land praised the team’s character and unity. “Sometimes you get to the end of the year, and you’re exhausted, but not with this group. They are always ready to play, and I feel like we could just keep going. These guys believe they are part of something bigger than themselves.”

This championship marks the fourth state title in school history, joining previous championships from 1996-1997, 1999-2000, and 2017-2018. It stands as a testament to the team’s resilience and faith. With a strong foundation in place, the future of SBS basketball is bright. Congratulations to the Eagles—2024-2025 5A State Champions!

State Basketball 2025 Photo Album