The number on the shirts said it all:  1.

1^st team.  1^st season. 1^st game.

1 team.  1 school.  1 mission.

On Tuesday, February 16, 2010 the Cristo Rey Jesuit Lions Boys Basketball team played the school’s first ever basketball game against the faculty and staff of the school.

In a thrilling game, Lions Basketball put on a great display of heart and teamwork.  Months of practice and hard work showed.   Not only did the boys display skill and organization on the court, but they set the standard for sportsmanship and respect for years to come.

The initial team began practicing in mid December with only 4 students.  As time progressed more students worked to gain eligibility.  By the time of the game, 11 students were on the roster.  This type of growth and progress epitomizes the growth of the school and the students thus far this year.

A handful of the players on the team had never played organized basketball before.  Yet Coach Andrew Hoyt and the team worked each day to become better as individuals and as a team.  Their dedication clearly paid off.  When they stepped on the court that Tuesday night in front of students, family, and fans, the Lions were ready to play.   Although the faculty won 25-17, the team showed a true spirit of unity and desire.

When the buzzer sounded, and the game and season ended, we could be sure of 1 thing: Lions’ Basketball, Cristo Rey Jesuit, and the city of Houston have a bright future!