PORT ARANSAS, Texas — Tourists come for the sun, beaches and food, but they should stay for the basketball. Port Aransas high school has been one of the most dominate teams in 2A for more than a decade.
"Everyone thinks Port A as a beach destination," said Port Aransas Head Coach Kris Jones. "We've got a great program."
Jones is absolutely right. The Marlins haven't lost a district game in over ten years, they've won more than 100 consecutive district games in a row.
However, they have yet to get over that hump. They are looking to make a state tournament in 2021.
"It would be huge for these guys," added Jones. "These seniors and these young guys have worked so hard."
The six seniors on the team have been playing together since youth ball. It's that bond that will play to their advantage.
"We all know our playing styles," said senior Aidan Schmidt. "We know what we do on the court."
They've already won their first playoff game by 41 points. A trip to San Antonio grows closer, but they remain focused on the next game.
"It's the mission but we really have to look at it one game at a time," said senior Conner Kruetziger.
It will be one final chance for this group of seniors to bring a state title back to Port Aransas.
"I think it would be a big deal especially with a pandemic and we had the hurricane four years ago," added Schmidt. "It would mean a lot to us and the fans."
"It's the highest goal we have," continued Kruetziger. "It'd be a great way to finish out everything we have done here."
The Marlins take on Lee Academy in the second round of the playoffs.
