The Vandegrift basketball team is coming off their best season in program history, and they are looking to once again be dominant.

Last season, the Vipers were co-district champions and went three rounds deep in the playoffs. The team believes they are capable of being just as successful, but it may be challenging.

Vandegrift moved up to 6A for the 2016-2017 academic year, and this means an increased level of competition. Their district, District 13-6A, includes programs with stellar programs, such as Westlake, Lake Travis and Vista Ridge.

“We need to bring leadership,” senior Ryan Boles said. “We have to get better at communicating with each other to succeed in 6A.”

Something that might help the Vipers succeed in 6A is their senior leadership. Seven of the team’s 13 players are senior, which could help the Vipers down the stretch with their experience.

“The seniors bring the experience we need to win games,” senior Earny Devine said. “The seniors are all good, and we will help influence the younger players on the team.”

While the seniors are expected to bring experience to the table, there are several underclassmen who will help the team this year. One of these players is Greg Brown III, who is a major recruit in the Class of 2020.

“We will be good this year,” Brown said. “I’m excited to be here, and I think we can win it all.”

Brown already has offers from major college programs, including Texas and Virginia.

Despite starting the season 1-5, the team still has confidence that they will turn the season around.

“We have the talent to have a great season,” Devine said. “I’m confident that we will be in the playoffs again.”