The Fort Morgan Mustangs boys basketball team has experienced a remarkable turnaround in the 2024-25 season, showcasing a level of performance that contrasts sharply with last year’s struggles. Currently boasting a record of 5-1, the team has demonstrated not only resilience but also a newfound chemistry that has translated into an impressive series of victories.
After a narrow 44-43 win against Wiggins, the Mustangs faced their only defeat of the season against Forge Christian, losing 52-46. However, they quickly rebounded with a string of commanding victories, defeating Ellicott 68-25, Bennett 67-30, Rocky Ford 80-30, and Brush 70-61, the latter victory secured in overtime. This impressive streak highlights the team’s ability to rally and perform under pressure.
Building Team Chemistry and Leadership
Coach David Marquez attributes much of the Mustangs’ success to the strong relationships among the players, both on and off the court. He emphasized the importance of a player-led approach, stating, “It’s kind of a player-led team over a coaches-led team, and I think those player-led teams are always more successful.” The interactions among the team members have been pivotal, with Marquez noting that they appear more focused and dedicated compared to previous seasons.
Three players have emerged as key contributors to the team’s offensive efforts. Senior small forward JJ Marquez leads the scoring with an average of 16 points per game, followed closely by his teammate, senior Carlo Bassalle, who contributes 14.6 points per game. Junior shooting guard Cooper Chisum also plays a crucial role, averaging 11.8 points per game while excelling defensively.
Defensive Strategies and Player Development
Coach Marquez highlighted the improvement in the team’s defensive strategies, noting that the players have developed a high basketball IQ and play with a selfless attitude. “Our defense has picked up a notch. We have some good traps going,” he explained. The team employs a solid 3-2 defensive setup, which keeps opponents guessing. Marquez added, “Our percentages around the rim are extremely high. We have a few tall kids. They jump pretty high so that the buckets are getting a lot easier for them.”
With their current record of 5-1, the Mustangs are poised to continue their momentum when they return to action on January 6, 2025, against Frontier Academy. As they build on their successes, the combination of strong leadership, teamwork, and strategic play may well lead them to a standout season. The excitement surrounding the Fort Morgan basketball program is palpable, and fans are eager to see how the season unfolds.
