Basketball opened the season establishing an early identity built on balance, discipline, and defensive intensity. Through the opening stretch of games, the Blue Jays have demonstrated their depth and ability to execute, gaining momentum while facing a variety of opponents and styles of play.

From the outset, the Blue Jays have set the tone on the defensive end, consistently limiting scoring opportunities and forcing opponents into difficult possessions. That defensive foundation has allowed the Blue Jays to control tempo and create offense in transition, while also executing effectively in half-court situations. Jesuit’s ability to close quarters and finish games has been a consistent theme throughout the opening weeks.

Offensively, the Blue Jays have benefited from balanced scoring and unselfish play. Senior Tanner Hughes has provided steady leadership, setting the pace and delivering timely scoring. Senior Zach LaGraize has emerged as an attacking presence, creating opportunities off the dribble and finishing through contact, while senior Brennan Pitts has added perimeter shooting that has stretched opposing defenses. Junior Luke Wetmore has been instrumental in managing the offense, helping Jesuit remain poised in key moments.

That style of play reflects what head coach Christopher Jennings ’78 emphasized entering the season. “From a numbers perspective, I’m expecting a 20-plus win season,” states Jennings. “More importantly, we will be playing with great intensity every time we step on the court. With 33 regular season games, that level of focus is difficult, but it would be a great accomplishment for this group.”

The depth of this team has also played a significant role in their early success. Contributions from seniors Sven Jensen, Tyler Farley and Tyler Oufnac, and juniors Duke Nitcher and Elijah Carter have added versatility on both ends of the floor, while junior Thomas Hulefeld, sophomores Race Hughes and Harrison Serio have provided physical defense and rebounding in the paint. The Blue Jays have consistently received meaningful minutes from across the roster, allowing them to maintain energy and intensity throughout games.

While the roster looks different from a year ago, the identity remains clear. Without the size advantage that defined last season, Jesuit has leaned into defensive pressure and opportunistic offense.

“Last year we were considered a big team,” Jennings explained. “This season, we’ll depend on a harassing defense and an offense that takes advantage of mistakes. We’ll also count on our ability to shoot the three ball.”

Coach Jennings points to experience and leadership as key factors as the season progresses, “It starts with the three seniors who played significant minutes last year—Zach LaGraize, Tanner Hughes, and Brennan Pitts. We’re also looking forward to Sven Jensen and Tyler Oufnac being forces inside, while getting perimeter help from senior Tyler Farley and juniors Duke Nitcher, Luke Wetmore, and Thomas Hulefeld.”

Catholic League Tournament

Against Catholic New Iberia, Jesuit leaned on strong guard play, with LaGraize (18 points) and Wetmore (15 points) leading the Blue Jays offensively. Both scored consistently throughout the game, setting the tone early and helping Jesuit pull away with a balanced scoring effort. Farley (6 points) added timely perimeter baskets that stretched the defense and opened the floor.

In the matchup with De La Salle, Jesuit faced a physical and disciplined opponent. LaGraize and Nitcher both knocked in 10 points each to lead the way offensively, attacking the basket and drawing defensive attention, while T. Hughes provided steady scoring and leadership. Despite the result, the Blue Jays showed resilience and execution against the currently undefeated Cavaliers.

The Blue Jays closed the tournament with a strong performance against Vanderbilt Catholic, led by another balanced scoring effort. Lagraize paced the offense with 17 points, 9 from the free throw line, while Pitts and Wetmore knocked down key perimeter shots. Pitts and T. Hughes contributed offensively, helping Jesuit secure the win and finish the weekend on a high note.

As the season moves forward, Jesuit basketball has laid a strong foundation through its commitment to team defense, balanced offense, and collective effort. With leadership, depth, and momentum on its side, the Blue Jays look to continue building as competition intensifies.

Stay up to date with schedules, rosters, livestreams, and game tickets—support the Blue Jays here.

Join us on Friday, January 23, in Benson Arena as we honor the 2001 State Championship Basketball Team. Festivities will begin at 5:30 p.m., with the Jesuit vs. St. Augustine game set for a 7 p.m. tip-off. Come watch Coach Jennings, Coach Hernandez, and the current Blue Jay basketball team in action at this district match-up.