Storyline: Mannford pushes to complete perfect season
Senior Jake Banfield said that Mannford’s undefeated record is something he does not for granted. “Just to think that no other team that has went through here has ever done that makes it so special,” Said Banfield. The Mannford Pirates…
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Continue ReadingSenior Jake Banfield said that Mannford’s undefeated record is something he does not for granted.
“Just to think that no other team that has went through here has ever done that makes it so special,” Said Banfield.
The Mannford Pirates extended their win total to 26 win last weekend in the Regional Championship with a 56-45 win over Inola. Mannford will have an opportunity this weekend in the Area Tournament to further solidify itself in MHS history and punch its ticket to state.
The now 26-0 Pirates became the first undefeated regular season team in MHS history a few weeks ago. Now, the Pirates are a win away from eclipsing Mannford’s single-season win record.
“It’s really special,” Banfield said. “I’m blessed to get to play with this group of guys and be a part of history at Mannford.
Banfield and fellow senior Daniel Keizor each surpassed the 1,000-point milestone this season as well. Both three-year starters for the Pirates, the dynamic duo looks to lead Mannford to its first State Championship.
“It motivates me to finish the season strong, said Keizor, “and to hopefully get that ring. It’s one of those things I’ll never forget and I’ll always look back on in my life.”
If Mannford’s 27th win comes this weekend, the Pirates will be allotted a guaranteed spot in the 4A State Tournament.
Aside from becoming the winningest team in school history and asserting itself into the final eight teams in the state, the Mannford seniors have another motivation to win this weekend.
The Pirates were eliminated last year in the first round of area.
“We don’t back down from anyone,” Kezoir said, “we love the challenge and always set our standards of playing basketball to the highest.”
Mannford’s journey started in November. Twenty-six wins later, Mannford took home championships in the Nowata Tournament, Route 66 Classic, and North County Classic. With its next stop coming this weekend, Mannford is primed to go down in history.
“We aren’t satisfied,” Banfield said. “We want more.”
Mannford plays Holland Hall on Friday, Feb. 4 at Daniel Webster High School at 8 p.m.