Boys’ Basketball Ready to Continue Success

The boys’ basketball team has been the top program in the area, and one of the top teams in the entire state, over the last five seasons. Despite losing two prolific players to graduation, Paul Mulcahy (Rutgers University) and Connor Murphy (University of the Sciences), the Knights have no intentions of slowing down this winter.

 

“Our number one goal, every year, is to win the Somerset County title and, fortunately, we have been able to do that the past five seasons,” said veteran head coach Mergin Sina. “After that, we are always looking to win a state title. It really is the toughest bracket in New Jersey, five to six teams could win it, but only one team makes it out, so we are going to do everything we can for it be us.”

 

Gill will return with some incredible talent from last year’s squad that went 26-5, won its ninth-straight Skyland Conference divisional title, and advanced to the Non-Public B Sectional final. Leading the way for the Knights will be the senior duo of Zach Martini and Will Soucie. Martini was a machine for GSB last winter, averaging well over a double-double on the season. Soucie also provides great scoring ability for the Knights.

 

“Martini and Soucie have been around the block, and they bring a lot of experience to our team,” said Sina. “They will definitely need to lead the team, and I know they will.”

 

Sina also believes sophomore Denver Anglin will take another step forward this year and will play a bigger role in the team’s offense. Freshmen Isaac Hester-Toku and Mack Mgbako should also see solid playing time and will get good experience. Sina is not the only believer in GSB basketball this winter, as the Knights were selected as the eighth-best program in the state in NJ.com’s preseason poll.

 

“Last year, we were one of the best teams in the state, and one bad game made us fall short of our ultimate goal of winning a sectional championship and going on to compete for a state title,” said Sina. “The kids dealt with the loss, learned from it, and I think everyone has an incredible opportunity to grow and improve throughout the year.”

 

The Knights will begin their conference and county title defenses against Hillsborough on Friday, December 20, in what will be a Spirit Day and “White Out” for Gill students.

 

“I think it is going to be a great season, and it is so important for the fans to come to the games and show their support because it is a big lift to us,” said Sina. “We play good basketball, we have a tough schedule against great opponents, and it something fun for the students and fans to come see.”