This season, Northampton’s boys’ basketball team hasn’t necessarily been successful due to sheer talent and size, but the Konkrete Kids’ grit and determination.

With a recent victory over Palmerton, the Kids had a 12-6 record to begin the week, and found themselves in a good position for the East Penn Conference (EPC) league playoffs.

“We know we aren’t the biggest team, but the players have risen to the occasion and are playing together,” said Kids’ head coach Matt Scholl. “We are lucky to have a great group of coachable kids. They have done everything we have asked of them and more.

The Kids suffered a recent 43-39 loss to Allentown Central Catholic before they bounced back with a 63-55 win over Palmerton. They previously were in their lone tailspin of the season when they dropped three of four games, defeating only Blue Mountain during the phase. The Kids suffered losses to Dieruff, Emmaus, and Central Catholic.

“Central is playing well with a lot of confidence,” added Scholl. “We battled throughout the game, and I was proud of our toughness and grit. We lost, and I don’t believe in moral victories. But we are better off because of our effort.

“Tristen Pinnock and Trent Moyer have been leading us in toughness points. They are not big, but they play with heart and passion.”

Scholl also cited the play of Mason Haupt, who was an integral part of the school’s soccer league championship. Haupt has seen limited minutes this season, but they have been meaningful.

“He does not play many minutes, but he is an important part of our team,” said Scholl. “He is positive and gives 100 percent at every practice. Every team needs players like Mason, and there aren’t enough of them anymore.”

Haupt has accepted his role and has a similar view of the team.

“I see this team as one of the hardest working teams I have ever played on,” said Haupt. “This team comes into every practice and gives it all their all. Our coaching staff makes sure we are well prepared for the team we are about to play.

“We go over things we can improve on, and how we will game plan against that team. I see my role being the best teammate I can be. We earned a district playoff spot, and we are now working to qualify for the league playoffs.

“I truly believe this team this team has what it takes to bring home a title.”

The Kids will have a busy and challenging week ahead with away games at Parkland Tuesday, Allen Thursday, and Whitehall Friday. They will end their regular season with a home game against Allen Feb. 5.

“We have a few tough games ahead,” stated Scholl. “But I know we will give our best in all of them.”