Totino-Grace boys basketball team hoping for third state title in a row
FRIDLEY, Minn. — When a team wins back-to-back state titles, it assumes a mandatory role: The hunted.
"I feel like the last couple years put a little bit of pressure on us," said Totino-Grace senior Isaiah Johnson-Arigu. "But I feel like all we've dealt with this season is pressure to win. So we're kind of used to that."
The Totino-Grace boy's basketball team captured the 3A crown in 2022 and 2023. As this year's state tournament arrives, the three-peat is next on the list.
"It's been flowing through everyone's mind since we won last year," said sophomore Dothan Ijadimbola. "Like, we got to do it again this year. It's not about us because the other guys that won it two years ago, they're not here. So we're just trying to keep on the legacy."
With a majority 4A schedule, and the ever-present target on their backs, the Eagles fight monotony any way they can.
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"We've thrown these guys changeups this year," said head coach Nick Carroll. "We've been meditating probably once a week. We had an arm wrestling competition last Saturday. We try to do stuff to change things up so that it's not just basketball, scout, film, weight room."
Totino-Grace could make a claim as one of the best teams in Minnesota.
"I know we dropped a few games, but I know we're the best team in the state," said Johnson-Arigu. "We have the most talent in the state, best players in the state. So, I feel like we're the best."
Even the underclassmen appreciate the streak and legacy they have a chance to continue with another championship.
"I go to sleep dreaming we win," said Ijadimbola. "I've definitely taken a step back and really thought about where I'm at and what needs to be done to keep achieving what the goal is."
