Junior basketball team go undefeated to win regionals in Dawson Creek

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Local young basketball players are one step closer to provincials after going undefeated in regionals on the weekend.

North Peace Secondary School’s (NPSS) Grizzlies Junior Boys Basketball Team won games against Dr. Kearney Middle School, Dawson Creek Secondary School and Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, going 4-0.

NPSS head coach Robert Blake said he was “thrilled” by his team’s play. With an emphasis on teamwork, his squad has gone 10-2 in the 2024-25 season.

He says the biggest adjustment for junior high to high school for these students is “rebuilding attitudes” to come together as a team.

“There are three keys to success at this level,” said Blake. “Proper communication is key.  Defence may win games, but communication is big.

“Playing basketball working together and building those skills as you need it. Skills like helping one another out can translate off the court as well as in the community.”

Blake, who is in his second season coaching NPSS, also coaches in the FSJ Flight Basketball program and runs FSJ Hoops, a free program for kids aged five through high school.

He says the Grizzlies’ success couldn’t have happened without countless volunteers who assist in the NPSS program, as well as key contributors in Isaac Erikson, Joshua Matuod and team captain Deacon Auger. 

Blake adds, however, the team “is 13 of us,” and his squad is always “ready to go” when they hit the road.

Following their success at regionals, they will next head to zone 8 playoffs in Prince George starting on Friday, February 7th for a chance to compete at B.C. provincials. 

The tournament will take place in Langley from March 5th to March 8th. Last season, NPSS came in third place at zone playoffs.

“I’m not going to hope, we’re going to take number one,” said Blake. “That’s the goal.”

More details about NPSS’ Grizzlies Junior Boys Basketball Team season is available on the team’s Facebook page.

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