The Brentwood Christian School boys basketball team opened their season with big wins versus Houston Westbury Christian, St. John XXIII, and UIL 6A Hutto, as well as some tough close games against area and state-ranked Round Rock Stony Point and St. Michael’s Prep.

The boys have started this season off with an incredibly competitive schedule with big games that have set them up for future success. With a tricky schedule, the Bears have been able to maximize their potential and play to a higher level of basketball.

“Of course our long term goal is state, but we focus on a mentality of getting better and competing everyday,” said head coach Dustin Karrer.

The new district brings further competition in Dallas and Tyler, giving Brentwood some challenging opponents.

The Bears have many strengths serving this year’s team, those being a strong defense, trust in each other, and experience across the board. With returning starters in seniors Blake Petty, Jake Elvin and Coleston Allen, along with junior Marcus Zelee, the stage is set for a big season.

The team also has recently added junior Zach Czerlinsky back in the fold after football season concluded.

Zelee leads the team at point guard with averages of 14.8 points per game and 4.7 assists; he has been honored recently as a top player in the area, according to the Austin American Statesman, and was first team all state last year.

The team also has two excellent forwards in Petty and newcomer junior Bryant Herring. Herring also leads in rebounds with 8.5 per contest. Alongside the forwards, the team is equipped with great senior leadership in Allen and Elvin.

In the days ahead, the Bears will play Leander Rouse at home on Dec. 3. District play begins Jan. 3 in Tyler.

The team is looking toward district setting a goal of earning their second straight district championship, a necessary step toward a larger goal of returning to state.

“We are focused on honoring the purpose,” Karrer said.