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As the holiday season fades, the Goodland Cowboys basketball team is charging into the second half of their season with momentum and resolve. Coach Mikey Doll, head coach of the undefeated Cowboys, joined us on The Morning Blitz during the winter break to discuss the team's success, challenges, and aspirations. Here's what he shared about their remarkable journey and what lies ahead.
Taking a Breather: The Winter Moratorium
The holidays brought a brief pause in the basketball season, thanks to the five-day winter moratorium, a mandated break from practices and games. While some might think this would be a frustrating interruption for a team on a roll, Coach Doll saw it differently.
"Basketball is a long season," he noted. "I think it's good for these kids to spend time with family, rest their bodies, and avoid burnout." He emphasized the importance of trust, giving his players freedom over the break while encouraging healthy habits upon their return to ensure a smooth transition back to game shape.
Keys to Success: Defense and Team Chemistry
When asked about the team's success so far, Coach Doll didn't hesitate to credit the players' hard work and defensive prowess.
"Our defense has been outstanding," he said. "We're giving up just 37 points per game and only 0.64 points per possession, which is remarkable considering our fast-paced play." Additionally, their rebounding efforts have been stellar, with the team securing 76% of opponents' missed shots and reclaiming 43% of their own missed shots.
Beyond the stats, Coach Doll highlighted the team's chemistry and shared goals. "These kids just want to win. They see where they can make a positive impact and fully buy into their roles." This buy-in extends to every player, from star performers like Lincoln Cure and Brady Brumbaugh to key contributors like Zach Thorson, Blair, and Braylon, who consistently step up when needed.
Big Wins and Turning Points
One of the season's highlights was a thrilling win over Hugoton, a team that hadn't lost a league game at home in over a decade. Reflecting on the game, Coach Doll called it a "toughness win," showcasing the Cowboys' growth since a similar situation last year, where they lost in overtime after a late-game collapse.
"This time, we found a way to win," he said. "The execution in the final moments, like Lincoln Cure’s clutch baseline move and Zach Thorson's defensive hustle, showed how far we've come as a team."
Looking Ahead: Adjustments and Challenges
As the season progresses, Coach Doll remains focused on continuous improvement. He plans to introduce new offensive wrinkles to keep opponents guessing, especially as they face familiar foes multiple times.
"We need to stay sharp and adaptable," he explained. "Playing great teams like Colby, Hugoton, and Holcomb consistently pushes us to be better. Iron sharpens iron."
The Cowboys’ commitment to defense will remain a cornerstone of their strategy. "We’re tough to score on when we’re set up defensively," said Coach Doll. "It’s something we can hang our hat on every game."
The Final Push
As the Cowboys gear up for the second portion of the season, they’re not just playing for wins; they’re playing for growth, camaraderie, and a shared vision of success. Coach Doll’s leadership, combined with the players' relentless work ethic, has set the stage for an exciting finish.
"We know it’s a dog-eat-dog league," he said, smiling. "But we're ready to embrace every challenge and continue building something special here in Goodland."
Stay tuned to The Morning Blitz as we follow Coach Doll and the Goodland Cowboys through what promises to be an unforgettable season!
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