As Highline’s fall sports come to an end, athletes start preparing for the winter sports season. Here at Highline, the winter sports feature men’s and women’s basketball. 

Men’s basketball is getting prepared for an exciting season, with high expectations for this year. Last season, the team ended with a 15-14 overall record, barely missing the playoffs.

Head coach Che Dawson gears up for the 2024-25 season with his team for his 22nd year with Highline. Dawson currently holds an overall record of 309-244 and a 181-118 record in the west division while coaching at Highline. 

Highlines men’s basketball team plays their first matchup of the season on Nov. 19, when the team will travel to Omak, Wash., to play Wenatchee Valley College. 

For a deeper look into the upcoming men’s basketball season, read the article published in last week’s edition of the Thunderword covering what the men’s season will look like.

On the flip side of things, women’s basketball is also gearing up for a thrilling season. 

This small but mighty team has a roster full of potential. They currently stand with a team full of sophomores, hoping to have strong leadership on the court. 

Winning only three out of the 20 games played in the season, last season was a challenge for the team. However, they were able to hold their heads high as they finished the season, knowing they left everything out on the court. 

The team looks forward to returners such as sophomore Anaiya Lewis, who led the team last year in average points per game, averaging 12.2 ppg. 

Freshman Lacie Sines, when speaking to the Thunderword said, “this season will definitely be a learning curve, getting to know everyone and learning how to play with them.”

The T-birds will face off in a scrimmage against Everett Community College on Saturday, Nov. 16, at noon.

Soon after, the team will officially kick off their season against Wenatchee Valley College, in Omak, Wash., on Nov. 19. 

We wish both of these teams the best of luck as they kick off their seasons!