Parkland High School’s boys basketball team faces a challenging start to the season as they navigate the absence of key player TJ Lawrence, who is recovering from a slight fracture of his fibula sustained during the football season. Lawrence, who averaged 7.4 points per game last season, is expected to miss approximately six to eight weeks, marking a significant gap in the lineup as the team gears up for its opening game against Allen on December 4, 2023.
The Trojans, known for their competitive spirit and depth, are not panicking, according to head coach Eddie Ohlson, now in his third season with a record of 45-16. Ohlson emphasized the opportunity for other players to step up in Lawrence’s absence. “It’s tough to lose someone of his caliber,” Ohlson stated. “But we look at it as a great opportunity for some of these kids who have put in a lot of work.” Javian Porter, a senior guard, has emerged as a key player during the offseason and is expected to fill the void left by Lawrence.
Porter expressed enthusiasm about taking on more responsibility. “TJ is definitely going to be missed a lot, but we expect to get him back,” he noted. “We’re building it back. We need to ensure we’re communicating and playing as a team.” The transition back to basketball from football has been smooth, according to Porter, who mentioned that the team’s senior members are eager to contribute to the Trojans’ success.
Among the returning players, junior quarterback Finn Coen is also anticipated to make an impact on the basketball court. Marcus Temchattin, a promising 6-foot-3 freshman, could also see significant playing time. Ohlson highlighted the team’s rigorous summer training, noting that they played over 30 games during the offseason, which has helped them build chemistry and prepare for the upcoming season.
The Trojans are setting high expectations for themselves, building on last year’s successes when they finished with a record of 19-10 and claimed the District 11 championship. Last season, they averaged 57.2 points per game while allowing just 44.7 points, showcasing a strong defensive unit. Ohlson has arranged a challenging nonleague schedule to prepare the team for postseason play, with matchups against formidable opponents like Berks Catholic, Penncrest, and Imhotep.
As the Trojans look ahead to their season opener, the absence of Lawrence poses a challenge, but the depth of the roster and the determination of the team provide a solid foundation for a successful campaign. The program has a storied history, having won nine league and thirteen district championships, with notable achievements in recent years. The Trojans aim to continue this legacy and strive for excellence in the upcoming season.
In addition to their competitive spirit, the team includes several players to watch this season, such as Alex Barrera, Yuri Barrera, and Ryan Kearney, each bringing unique strengths to the court. The players are eager to build on last year’s momentum, having achieved success in both league and state competitions.
With the season set to begin, the Parkland Trojans are prepared to face the challenges ahead, confident in their ability to adapt and thrive even in the face of adversity. As the team rallies around their missing star, the focus remains on teamwork, communication, and a shared goal of victory.
