A hype up jam session that Phoenix Christian water boy Julius Rodgers was a part of in the locker room before tipoff fueled a 50-31 win over Gilbert Classical on Monday.

Senior Devin Andreas took over with his vocal leadership as well as his advanced basketball IQ. So did freshman Extavius Mason.

“Devin's energy, his intensity, his verbal communication, I definitely think it rubs off and makes us better,” coach Mykael Wright said.

Andreas is the present for the Cougars but Mason is the future. Andreas took Mason under his wing this year mentoring and even shooting with him in open gym.

“I was a freshman at one point, so I get it,” Andreas said. “Now is the time to learn and grow into who you are, and I just want to help him like someone helped me.”

Mason is a true freshman who is still hesitant and earning his keep. He is an outstanding shooter, coming hot off the bench in the first quarter and dropping a three. He finished with six total points.

“His teammates expect him to do well and because they have such great confidence him, he’s slowing starting to grow and come into his own,” Wright said.

Junior Jordan Joselit is a defensive-minded player who helped keep the Cougars fierce this season. He didn’t put up any points but he contributed to the win with his hustle and hands-up defense.

“We lost a couple games earlier in the season but we’re playing much better basketball so I’m confident going into playoffs.” Joselit said.

With the playoffs ahead, Wright stressed the importance of intensity and caring for the ball.

At the beginning of the season, the Cougars (11-6) were a team of 14 individuals. Monday they were a team looking out for each other.

“I think we have to pick up our defensive intensity.” Wright said. “That’s really where we’re at our best on the defensive end of the court so we’ll have to let that carry us through the playoffs.”

Wright said he would miss this special group and the family they have built this season.

“I genuinely love these boys, they’re a great group who I love coaching and have fun with.” Wright said