LuciaAmbrose
With the basketball season underway, the Crusaders are filled with optimism. Coming off a strong 16-win season that ended in heartbreak at the district finals against Lincoln North Star, the team is ready to reset and rebuild with a mix of returning leaders and promising underclassmen.
Senior captain Elsa Vedral is at the forefront of this rebuild. Hopeful about the talent and potential of the team’s younger players, she sees this as a year of opportunity. “Our goal is to make it to state,” Vedral said, emphasizing the importance of team culture. She emphasized the importance of meeting with the underclassmen making sure they understand expectations and lay the groundwork for success. Vedral’s personal focus is to strengthen team culture and provide impactful leadership, traits she believes will be vital for a team with limited returning players.
The Crusaders huddle to discuss strategy on how to take down the Papillion-La Vista Monarchs at their game on Dec. 5. at Papillion-La Vista High School. Photo by Zariyah Boyd ‘28.
Assistant Coach Eric Thompson echoes Vedral’s optimism. “Tryouts went really well,” he said, highlighting the excitement surrounding a talented freshman class. This season is particularly meaningful for Thompson, as he’ll be coaching his daughter, senior Aubrey Thompson, for one final year.
Thompson is eager to hit the court. “I honestly can’t wait to see what we can do this season,” she said. “The intensity of practices has been great—everyone is pushing each other to get better.”
Head Coach Tom Tvrdy is also optimistic. “We have strong leadership this year and a lot of potential. I’m confident it’s going to be a fun and competitive season,” he said.
Junior Emelia Daubendiek is another player looking forward to the season. “Our overarching goal is to make it to the state tournament,” she said. “But I also want to make sure the dynamic on the team stays positive and fun.”
The Crusaders are determined to capitalize on last year’s momentum, which marked a turning point. Marian hopes to win the district title and earn a trip to the state tournament this year. Districts will be set by NSAA officially towards the end of the season.
The Varsity team was victorious in their first game on Dec. 5 at Papillion La Vista beating them 67-58 on their home court. The JV and Reserve both lost their first games. JV and Varsity will play again at home on Dec. 10 against Norfolk and Dec. 12 against Elkhorn South.
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