Sumner Academy Boys 8th Grade Basketball Team Finishes 2026 Season Undefeated

This year, Sumner Academy’s 8th grade boys basketball team achieved something truly special: an undefeated 8-0 season, taking home the district championship. 

Their undefeated season ended on Thursday, February 26 with a win over Arrowhead Middle School. 

8th Grade Boys Head Basketball Coach Steve Williams Jr. credited the team’s success to their discipline, unselfishness, resilience, and pride. 

“I think having a few guys who have played basketball before also helped,” said Coach Williams. “Every year, Sumner Academy gets blessed with a new batch of 8th graders, which could be demanding for them to learn a new scheme, team and teammates. So, having basketball experience makes the process so much easier."

Having a never-quit attitude also helped propel this squad to an undefeated season. “We were down double-digits in the Arrowhead and Eisenhower games and fought back and won both games. Those moments helped us believe we can win through adversity. It's awesome to see their hard work paid off,” added Coach Williams. 

Andrew Wright, Sumner Academy’s Athletic Director, believes the team’s success was rooted in more than just talent, but also their strong character. “At this level, it's not about wins and losses; it's about growth, accountability, and development,” shared Wright. “All of those young men showed great growth both individually and as a team.”

A winning season brought a sense of collective pride throughout the halls of Sumner Academy, as the entire student body joined in celebrating the team’s success.

Principal Rick Malone agreed, saying the unity the season inspired across campus. “I think the whole school rallied behind the team. Our student body is deeply committed to fostering a positive culture and climate, and to supporting one another,” Malone said

Congratulations on having a great season.