September 15, Bishop Gorman Men’s Basketball kicked off with a great start to their preseason. They began Fall League 3-0, as they’re headed into their final two games of preseason against LVBC and the Vegas Bulldogs.
Sunday, September 15 was the beginning of the Gael’s quest to repeat as state champions. They played against Sierra Vista and won the game by 15 points. Senior Nick Jefferson said. “We’ve been practicing real hard and playing real hard and we’re finally excited to go against other teams and play with each other.” As a four-year varsity player, Jefferson has taken the leadership role on the team.
The Gaels also have some very promising young returning talent, such as Kameron Cooper ‘27. Cooper is the No. 2 player in the class of 2027 in Nevada, and is stated to be one of the best all-around players in the state by Bruce Prep Hoops. Cooper ‘27 said, “we’ve got a new group of guys, a couple freshmen and a great sophomore class. We’re just evolving and trying to compete.” As a returner, Cooper ‘27 has also taken a lead role in the Gael’s locker room, alongside his fellow teammate, sophomore Ilan Nikolov.
Nikolov is currently ranked the number one player in Nevada for the class of 2027, most commonly known for his elite scoring and sharpshooting. When asked about the Gaels work ethic thus far, Nikolov said, “we’ve been working really hard, running a lot, lifting… it’s been fun but it’s been hard too.” He also said he feels the Gaels could have played better in their game against Rancho, however he added, “…we won so that’s all that matters in the end.”
Another sophomore that’s looking to be a powerful edition to the stacked Gaels roster is Tyler Johnson. He is the No. 3 ranked player in the class of 2027 in Nevada, known for his next level athleticism and lockdown defense. Johnson played JV last year to gain experience, however this year, he’s ready to jump into his role as 6th man on varsity. When asked about his new role, Johnson said, “being able to contribute more is better… I felt like I’ve been doing good, involving my teammates and getting them open buckets.”
The Gaels played the first of their final two games on Thursday, September 26. Beating the Legacy Longhorns by 20 points. They look to close out Fall League undefeated and prepare for one of the biggest tournaments of the year, Border League. With a very talented roster and a great work ethic, the Gaels seek to repeat as state champions and resolidify their status as one of the great dynasties in Nevada high school basketball.
