Dragon Basketball Uprising: A Program-wide Heatwave

Our Dragons are breathing fire! Both the Junior Varsity and the Varsity teams are dominating the basketball court.

The Varsity squad boasts a 7–1 home record and a 12–8 overall mark — its highest number of wins since 2018. Having been victorious in eight of their last nine games, the Dragons are peaking at the perfect moment.

Now in year three of Varsity Head Coach Mike Sudberg’s system, the roster has transitioned from learning the basics to mastering high-level execution. The team has doubled its three-pointers from last season.

Based on the game calendar and using a “pulse” approach to training, the coaches have identified specific windows for high-volume/long practices and shorter, high-intensity sessions, with “clearance days” to ensure that the athletes stay fresh and avoid late-season burnout.

“Our mission extends beyond the scoreboard,” says Coach Sudberg. “We’re using basketball to develop resilient, high-character student-athletes who will lead their communities long after they’ve played their final game.” 

On the JV courts, our Dragons are riding an incredible eight-game winning streak, and the team is heading into the Union County Tournament with exciting momentum.

JV Head Coach Melissa Semidey credits the streak to a total buy-in. The players trust the process, the plays, and — most important — one another. From the intensity of practice to the tradition of postgame cupcakes, this group is locked in. The chemistry and friendships are real, and the team always comes first.

Success has come from doing the “little things” the right way, driven by outstanding leadership by the captains.

Says Coach Semidey, “This year’s success comes down to resilience and a winning mentality. That mindset shift is what’s really driven this streak.”

The one-program approach is evident in both teams, with a player-led environment having created a unified foundation. Whether it’s Varsity’s tactical precision or JV’s relentless grit, the entire Kent Place program is rising together.

Come out on Wednesday, February 11, at 4:00 p.m., to cheer on your Dragons as the JV team faces off against Linden at home for the first round of the UCT Tournament, and if you can make an away game, the Varsity team travels to New Providence for its opening round of the UCT Tournament.

Let’s enjoy these winning ways — go Dragons!