Kolten Klein is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Sunnyslope High School for AZPreps365.com

A playoff appearance is nothing new for Sunnyslope.  

Sunnyslope, 12-1 in conference and 17-1 overall, is headed to the playoffs for the sixth time in seven years.  Winning their last seven games, the Vikings are coming into the postseason with real momentum and confidence. 

Head coach Ray Portela warns his players to use that confidence the right way and not to become overly satisfied.  Nothing has been accomplished until the championship.

Andy Foster, assistant coach and a fundamental piece of this year’s team, is comfortable in the playoffs having won one as a player and two as a coach.  

“I have noticed that last practice our guys were much more dialed in mentally, they were paying attention more during drills.” Foster said, emphasizing how focus is essential this time of year.

With their eyes on the prize, the Vikings have tweaked their practices, watching a lot of film on their opponents.  

Foster said, “We also think about the things that have given us a problem during the season with the anticipation that our next opponent may try and do those same things against us.”

Watching film and forming practices catering to the strengths of upcoming opponents is the type of preparation necessary to advance.  This week, the coaches are trying to hammer home strategies that are tailor-made for Mountain Point, which they play Thursday night.

Junior Elijah Saunders echoes what the coaches are preaching, taking the tournament one game at a time.

Mentally the Vikings have improved drastically from the beginning of the year.  “Guys are starting to realize quicker in game who has the hot hand and are starting to feed them.” Foster said.  

Sunnyslope emphasizes that recognition in its film sessions as it prepares for Mountain Pointe.

For the seniors, this game could be their last organized basketball.  Everything they have will be put on the court come Thursday.