Mounds View Boys Basketball: game day

As the team prepares for their home opener on Dec. 2, they share the effort and traditions that go into their preparations.

Brayden Kopf, Sidharth Sharma, and Matthew Betti

December 4, 2023

Junior Cody Loegring analyzes the position to make the optimal play.

Brayden Kopf

Captain Eli Roe warming up before practice

Practices

As winter turns the corner, the Mounds View boys basketball team gears up for the 2023-24 season.

Their practices are marked by various routines. Head coach David Leiser notes a crucial difference between practices before games and normal practices. “The big change is going over the scouting report for our opponent,” said Leiser.

This preparation is key for players. “We know most of the plays they are going to run, player tendencies, defensive strategies, and assignments.” says captain Eli Roe.

The team prepares with an emphasis on scouting reports and other specific pre-game routines, ensuring they are well-equipped for the challenges ahead.

Captain Eli Roe warming up before practice (Brayden Kopf)

Pre-game

Ahead of each game, the team’s warm-up routine goes beyond the immediate pre-game moments. “The pre-game music really starts when you wake up for the game,” says junior Cody Loegering. “You gotta start your day off nice and calm. [It’s] calm music on the way to school … and then we are on the court, and then the pre-game playlist is on.” Loegering underscores the pivotal role music can play for some. It becomes a foundational element, shaping the players’ mindsets from the day’s outset.

Roe has a unique routine, attending the JV game, watching the first half, and then going to the MAC for an individual warm-up. “I lock in and do my own thing, get my shots up,” says Roe.

Post-individual warm-ups, the team executes Leiser’s routines. “We want our players to carry themselves with confidence,” says Leiser, emphasizing the importance of confidence in both physical and mental aspects.

Junior Jacob Sampson warms up his shot. (Brayden Kopf)

Junior Cody Loegring attempts to block a 3-ponter

Home opener against Northfield

During the game, the fans created an electric atmosphere, screaming various chants to fire up the players. Every point by Mounds View was followed by an eruption of noise. The Mounds View bench buzzed with energy each play, they screamed and stood up to support their team.

The team believes that a strong bond can be important to maintaining a good team. “A lot of us are friends outside of basketball so that definitely helps. We’re always hanging out at school. We definitely build a connection outside of basketball, and I think that is really important,” said Roe. They believe that by holding each other accountable and relying on each other, they form a bond both on the court and off the court.

Junior Cody Loegring attempts to block a 3-ponter (Brayden Kopf)

Head Coach David Leiser giving a pep talk to the team

Post-game

Mounds View secured a victory at their season and home opener. The Mustangs beat Northfield by 44 points with a final score of 95 to 51. Senior and captain Joey Fretheim led the Mustangs with 35 points.

Despite their celebratory start to the season, they remained focused on their next performance. “I mean it was a nice win, but we just celebrated that night and then moved on to the next one,” said Roe.

The team has a strong belief in their ability to perform well this season. “We got a lot of good teams to play but I think we definitely have the players and the ability to go undefeated,” said junior Jacob Sampson.

Head Coach David Leiser giving a pep talk to the team (Brayden Kopf)

Basketball

About the Contributors

Brayden Kopf, Staff Reporter

Brayden is a junior staff reporter, and this year is his first year on The Viewer.

Sidharth Sharma, Online Editor-in-Chief

Hi! My name is Sidharth, and I am a senior. I’m excited to be the Online Editor-in-Chief for 2025-26 school year. I love to play tennis, table tennis and basketball. In my free time, you can catch me 3D-designing or listening to music.

Matthew Betti, Print Managing Editor

My name is Matthew Betti, and I am the Managing Copy Editor. In my free time, I enjoy playing soccer and video games. I also like the bands Pantera and Smashing Pumpkins. I’m very excited to be working on the Viewer this year!