The Pirate boys basketball team opened their season with a victory, beating Rainier Christian at home last Wednesday, 52-34.

Coach Andy Sears said he was happy to start the season off well, especially since the team is fairly young and inexperienced this year.

“We have a really young club. But we played tough, really hard, and with good defense,” he said.

Sears noted that Ben Whitaker, a key returner, was out for the game due to an injury. However, he said, other players stepped up in his place.

“It was good. We had people step up and fill his role nicely,” Sears said.

All 11 players had time in the game, and Dan Lofland and Owen Brenno led in scoring with 13 points apiece.

Sears said that young players on the team are already showing promise as well. Freshmen Jessie Norton and Ian Stewart both sank baskets, scoring 7 and 6 respectively.

Though there are still some skills Sears would like to see the team improve on, he said that so far he’s pleased with how the Pirates are shaping up.

“I like the path we’re on. Every single day we seem to be improving more and more,” he said. “It’s exciting.”

The Pirates played Evergreen Lutheran in an away game Tuesday after deadline.

This Friday at 7 p.m. they will play Seattle Christian on the home court in their first league game. Sears said it should be an exciting match, as Seattle Christian is a Vashon rival and looks to have a good team this year.

“It should be a good, competitive game,” he said.