After making the playoffs for the first time in school history last season, Hickory High’s basketball team is back in the gym and focused on taking the next step. The excitement from last year’s breakthrough has carried into the new season, and the players are determined to show that their success wasn’t a one-time event. Head Coach Brett Pearman says the team has been putting in serious effort during preseason conditioning, which sets the tone for what they hope will be another memorable year.

“We have seen consistency from the guys who show up, and they are working hard to get better,” Pearman said. “The energy in the gym has been good, and the returning players are setting an example for the younger guys.”

Basketball has always played a major role in Pearman’s life. He has spent a total of 15 years with Hickory basketball—four years as a player and eleven as a coach. That long history with the program has shaped how he leads. “I care about the program succeeding and being consistent,” Pearman said. “It’s important to me that we build something lasting, not just have one good year and fade away.”

For Pearman, success isn’t just about wins and losses. He believes a strong team is built on unity, shared goals, and selflessness. “A team means a group of people with a common goal, who are unselfish enough to accept their roles and responsibilities for the good of the group,” he explained. He emphasizes that every player has a role to play, whether they’re a starter or someone coming off the bench.

Last season was a landmark year for Hickory basketball. The team reached the playoffs for the first time ever, an achievement that excited the entire school community. Although they faced the eventual state champions in the first round, just making it to that stage was a huge step forward. It showed the players what was possible when they worked together and believed in themselves.

Now, the challenge is to build on that success. “This season will depend on the players,” Pearman said. “It’s going to be really hard and challenging. Mentally, can we be tough enough to handle that? Can we maintain a consistent work ethic every day, regardless of the circumstances? We will see. If we do, I believe great results will follow.”