York's Unlikely Success Continues as Big Men Dominate on the Court
In a surprising turn of events, York's physical basketball team has emerged as one of the top performers in the area. Despite being built around its towering big men - Hunter Stepanich, Costa Kampas, and Jackson Rennick - few expected the Dukes to excel this season.
Stepanich, at 6-7, is a force to be reckoned with on the court, while Kampas, weighing in at 275 pounds, is an imposing presence in the paint. Rennick, standing at 6-4, rounds out the trio of physical giants that anchor York's defense.
"We know we're one of the most physical teams in the state and one of the best rebounding teams," Stepanich said, "so we play to our strengths." And play they do, with a trademark defense that makes opposing players uncomfortable. When opponents manage to get through their pressuring defense, Kampas, Stepanich, or Rennick are there to clean up down low and cover the corners.
York's defense has been a key factor in the team's success, but it's not just about individual talent. The team's chemistry and brotherhood have also played a crucial role in their unexpected rise to the top. According to Kampas, "the bond on our team is incredible." This close-knit group of friends has become a formidable force on the court.
The Dukes' recent win over Libertyville was a prime example of this success. Down by 12 points with just six minutes left, York came from behind to secure a 47-41 victory. Junior Joseph Ubbe led the way with 17 points, while Stepanich added 12 points and seven rebounds.
Libertyville's Bryce Wegrzyn, a 6-9 Winona State recruit, was matched up against Stepanich in a rare big-man battle. Despite suffering an injury to his eye early in the second half, Wegrzyn still managed to put up a fight before being forced to leave the game.
York's coaching staff has been surprised by the team's success, but senior leaders like Stepanich have always believed in their abilities. "This was our opportunity to step up and lead as a senior class," he said. "And our coaches put us in a great position to make it happen."
As for Kampas, playing with friends since childhood has made this season all the more special. "This is awesome, playing with some friends I've known since I was 5 years old and having this success," he said.
York's unlikely success story continues as they look to build on their momentum and keep improving every day. With a strong team dynamic and physical talent, there's no reason why they can't continue to surprise opponents and make a deep run in the playoffs.
In a surprising turn of events, York's physical basketball team has emerged as one of the top performers in the area. Despite being built around its towering big men - Hunter Stepanich, Costa Kampas, and Jackson Rennick - few expected the Dukes to excel this season.
Stepanich, at 6-7, is a force to be reckoned with on the court, while Kampas, weighing in at 275 pounds, is an imposing presence in the paint. Rennick, standing at 6-4, rounds out the trio of physical giants that anchor York's defense.
"We know we're one of the most physical teams in the state and one of the best rebounding teams," Stepanich said, "so we play to our strengths." And play they do, with a trademark defense that makes opposing players uncomfortable. When opponents manage to get through their pressuring defense, Kampas, Stepanich, or Rennick are there to clean up down low and cover the corners.
York's defense has been a key factor in the team's success, but it's not just about individual talent. The team's chemistry and brotherhood have also played a crucial role in their unexpected rise to the top. According to Kampas, "the bond on our team is incredible." This close-knit group of friends has become a formidable force on the court.
The Dukes' recent win over Libertyville was a prime example of this success. Down by 12 points with just six minutes left, York came from behind to secure a 47-41 victory. Junior Joseph Ubbe led the way with 17 points, while Stepanich added 12 points and seven rebounds.
Libertyville's Bryce Wegrzyn, a 6-9 Winona State recruit, was matched up against Stepanich in a rare big-man battle. Despite suffering an injury to his eye early in the second half, Wegrzyn still managed to put up a fight before being forced to leave the game.
York's coaching staff has been surprised by the team's success, but senior leaders like Stepanich have always believed in their abilities. "This was our opportunity to step up and lead as a senior class," he said. "And our coaches put us in a great position to make it happen."
As for Kampas, playing with friends since childhood has made this season all the more special. "This is awesome, playing with some friends I've known since I was 5 years old and having this success," he said.
York's unlikely success story continues as they look to build on their momentum and keep improving every day. With a strong team dynamic and physical talent, there's no reason why they can't continue to surprise opponents and make a deep run in the playoffs.