Through three games, the NPHS boys’ varsity basketball team has already matched their win total from last season. North Platte won their first two games against Kearney Catholic and Lincoln Northeast respectively, before losing to Bellevue East in the home opener on Dec. 9.

With a 2-1 record, the team is off to their best start in years. Senior forward Zavion Mitchell said the team is playing better this year. “We’re a lot taller and compete with Class A teams better than we did last year,” he said. Senior Christian Ramos credits the team’s early success to veteran leadership. “We have a lot more experience,” he said. “It’s easier to get the offense going and get everyone where they need to go.”

Ramos said last year was fun, but it was also difficult because they weren’t winning. “This year, with the early success, we’re having fun with it,” he said. “We’re pushing each other to be better, so we can continue that success.”

Mitchell says the hot start is well-overdue. “It’s pretty cool because we’ve all worked super-hard for this. It’s kind of fun to actually be winning and having fun with it.”