Southmoreland’s all section basketball player Tommy Pisula averaged 15.4 points per game in the 2014-2015 basketball season. Averaging 10 rebounds per game, Pisula was a huge key to the team’s success.

The team made it to round three of the playoffs with Pisula’s combined 24 points in the first two games.

Due to a football injury, the boy’s basketball team will not have Pisula’s help on the court this season.

Pisula said he will “be at practice every day” and will “be on the bench” supporting his teammates.

“I love basketball more than anything,” said sophomore Brandon Stone, “I don’t know what I would do if I couldn’t play.”

Coach Frank Muccino said he feels “confident” with the players he does have available. Coach Muccino’s goal for this season is to make it back to playoffs and possibly make it farther in the playoffs than last year.

“Losing an all conference player will have an effect on the team,” said Coach Muccino, “so everyone needs to step up.”

Returning varsity players are expected to contribute to the team’s scoring and leadership, as well as returning JV players expected to work harder and fill open spots.

“You can’t (replace) Tommy with one guy,” said Coach Muccino. “It’s a team thing with everyone chipping in.”

The team has lost many seniors that were major contributors to the team’s success last year. Ben Niemiec was a captain for the team and his leadership on the court will be missed.

“Ben taught me not to be nervous and calmed me down when I needed it,” said Stone.

Despite not having a two year letterman returning and the loss of seniors, the team is happy with the upcoming expected varsity players. Doug Leighty is predicted to be a leader of the team this season.

“I will get everyone hyped and be the first person they go to for anything,” said Leighty.

The boys’ basketball team looks to clinch a spot in the playoffs despite the loss of several key players from last season. A goal that can only be achieved by a unified, hard working team.

“Going into a season without returning starters and Tommy after coming off of a winning season will be tough,” said Stone.

Leighty said Pisula’s injury is “a major setback” but they will work “to overcome it” in hopes that Pisula will be back for playoffs.