Forgetting about last year’s dismal season, the varsity boys basketball team set their goals on what they know they can accomplish, and this year is proof of that.]

In district play, Sachse has pulled together a 3-3 record against North Garland, Lakeview, South Garland, Garland, Rowlett and Wylie.

At Friday’s rival game against Rowlett, the Mustangs lost in the last seconds of the game 55-53.

Tuesday, Jan. 15, the team took on the Wylie Pirates at an away game.  The game came down to the last seconds of the game as well with Dylon McKeon sinking a 3-pointer at the buzzer.

“Our game against teams such as Wylie are huge steps towards the playoff push. Between the two of us, we’re pushing for one of those third or fourth spots in the playoff standings,”  head varsity basketball coach, Zach Mikesell said.

“As far as playoffs go, things intensify a little bit–focusing more on a lot of the little things that you may or may not focus on so much in your district games,” Mikesell said.

Leading up to district play the Mustangs competed in a number of non-district games and tournaments. Mikesell said the tournaments allowed them to play challenging teams which rapidly developed the Mustangs into a versatile team.

“Everything culminated in our last non-district game against Plano West,” Mikesell said. “Plano West was coming from a win against the number three team in the state, and they were coming into our house. We knew it was going to to be a tough competition, but we got the win through preparing well, playing harder than them and simply believing that we could win.”

This underdog victory propelled the team towards their first win against the Garland Owls and gave them a 3-1 record for the Christmas tournament.

A big focus this year for the Mustangs is creating a family atmosphere where they encourage one another and hold each other accountable for getting the job done, Mikesell said.

“We consistently talk about this team being a family, and the first step of that is loving each other regardless of the differences that we all have,” Mikesell said.  “We are all a part of this, and to be a part of this team is an elite company.”