by Anthony Gomez
The 2017-2018 Empire Boys Basketball Team concluded their season as the winningest class in school history. The Empire Ravens Varsity Basketball team broke and set several records this season capped off with a run in the State Tournament and State Quarterfinals in Prescott. The team’s achievements included the following:
Finished the season 20-7; 11-1 in conference play. Thirteen wins in a row, winning 17 of 18, including an undefeated run in the month of January and into the state tournament. Winning two rounds in the state playoffs-including hosting a first round game at Empire High School (defeating Show Low High 62-49) and a dominant performance in the Second Round (defeating Snowflake High 75-63 at the Round Valley Dome in Eagar). Reached the Arizona State 3A Quarterfinals in Prescott, (losing to Valley Christian 63-53).
The team was coached by Dana Plouck and consisted of 9 returning seniors (4 returning starters) making it the deepest and most experienced team assembled by Coach Plouck. The team was led by four-year Varsity players Jack Plouck and Gabriel Martin; and consisted of multiyear lettermen and Varsity starters Adrian Vera, Adam Gomez, Gabe Elias, and C.J. Robinson. The senior laden team was rounded out with Elijah Harris, Dennis McMurray, and Max Esquer.
Congratulations Empire High Boys Basketball for an exciting season! And thank you for the memories.
