With the boys basketball season now part of the historical record, the challenge moving forward will be to build on the experience their young squad gained as they prepare for a busy spring and summer.

They finished the year 6-16, integrating a young lineup that returned just three percent of their points from the previous season. That led to some growing pains as head coach Jeff Jones expected. It was a team that had to get production from many players who were new to varsity competition.

While they had senior guard Kevin Virgo, and junior point guard Ethan Parvel providing experience and stability in the back court, they still had to find points from a large group of newcomers.

That produced some scoring lulls throughout stretches of games, and those often were the difference between victory and defeat.

“You’re just not able to overcome that sometimes,” said Jones.

Still, he had a team that played hard every time they hit the floor. They played a marvelous game against Parkland at home, a relentless effort on both ends of the court from start to finish, and battled a much bigger Emmaus team down to the wire in their final game of the season.

The Zephs also lost a number of close games, falling to Freedom by a point, and by five to Parkland in their rematch. Jones believes with a year under their belts, they’ll be able to flip those outcomes.

“The games we were in, with a little more experience, we can win those games,” said Jones. “Certainly, that’s the hope.”

The Zephyrs lose seniors Jake Lisicky, Kevin Virgo, Mike Smith and Markes Cruz. Virgo was a steadying influence in the backcourt running the point, while Smith and Cruz patrolled the paint for the Zephs, and in most cases drew assignments against mush taller players. Lisicky also found himself battling taller frontcourt players, but stayed relentless on the glass all season.

Jones said that Lisicky was their most valuable player, setting the example on the court through his hard work and dedication.

“He gave everything he had,” said Jones. “He was just unbelievable. Great student. Great person.”

The Zephyrs will return the bulk of their roster next season, and that means 80 percent of their scoring will be back.

Dylan McGinley and Ethan Parvel lead that returning cast as both players averaged 9 points per game last season. Joe Herman, who averaged 6 ppg, will also be back, as will Tyler Holubowski who averaged 4.9 ppg. Rick Melosky (3 ppg) and Na’Mirr Boatwright (3 ppg) will also return, while Adin Hoderewski, Joe Lisicky and Andrew Lochard will be back as well.

Jones said that McGinley’s offensive development was notable as the season progressed.

“In the last 10 games or so, it seemed like he was in double figures every night,” said Jones.

Jones said that it’s a good foundation to have, and that they’ll continue to build on that starting with kids getting back in the gym as soon as the spring sports season gets underway. They’ll also play in two summer tournaments, make their annual trip to St. Joseph’s University, and compete in day events at various colleges like East Stroudsburg.