When the calendars flip to December the sounds of nets swishing fills the air at Erie High School. The Erie Boys Basketball season tipped off on December 6th with a victory over Chattfield.

The Tigers enter this season with more motivation after the ending of last season. Senior Cal Gebhart expresses his feelings about his motivation for the season, “I think missing the playoffs last season was extremely disappointing and we’ve got a ton of new guys to help us reach the playoffs this year.” Gebhart started the season off strong contributing an impressive 9 points in the season opener. 

The Tigers returned most of the production from last season including leading scorer Chris Smith. The junior shooting guard led the team with 12 points per game as a sophomore in the 2023-24 season. 

Smith has been ready and is excited for another big season. “I’m mostly just looking forward to improving my game and just finding more ways to win.” Smith picked up right where he left off, dropping a smooth 12 points against Chatfield. 

In the season opener only 6 total players scored. One of which was sophomore Patrick Hahn who scored 8 including his first points as a varsity player. Hahn added an assist and a steal as well to complete his game. 

Other key returning players include the Firebaugh brothers, Dylan and Tyler. Dylan, a senior entering his fourth year with the Tigers, is very excited for his final season. “I’m just super hyped to get back on the court and enjoy my last season with my boys.” Firebaugh brings his top of the line energy to each and every game.

Erie is set up for their best season of the past couple years. The mix of returning players as well as the new additions, the Tigers are aiming for the playoffs.