The Aledo Bearcats basketball team is coming off a historic campaign from its 2023-24 season. Last year, the Bearcats claimed the district crown for the first time in program history that included a season sweep of the longstanding basketball power Brewer Bears. While the Bearcats lost senior leader and star player Joaquin Pacheco to graduation along with other key pieces, Aledo brings back an experienced roster and multiple impact newcomers to this year’s team, who will work under the direction of first-year head coach Andrew Baker.
“I’m excited for these guys and the transition has been so smooth,” Baker said. “For our seniors, it will be their third coach in three years and that can be tough, but they have embraced a different style and change well – I couldn’t ask for a better group of leaders in Year One.”
Two of those returning seniors expected to play big roles for Aledo are guard Enrique Pacheco, who was a 2024 first-team all-district selection, and forward Townes Van Huysen, the district’s 2024 Newcomer of the Year. Junior guard Caden Cunningham, Aledo’s main marksman from a season ago, was a second-team all-district player and has showcased improved athleticism that is allowing him to dunk the basketball and attack the basket well.
With defense, toughness and continuity leading the way, Baker expects quality contributions from senior forward Dylan Pipkins and junior guard Cooper Hull along with newcomers in sophomore guard Braxton Hamric and freshman guard Joshua Timms.
“They are very motivated to take another step this season when it comes to the playoffs,” Baker said. “We have a great mix of returners with experience and a few young players stepping into new roles. I believe this is a group that will turn some heads in the playoffs and will be fun to watch.”
Aledo will have to face plenty of quality opponents to repeat as district champions and build on last year’s historic foundation. Additionally, there is plenty of strong basketball in the area that Baker and the program are cognizant of along the way.
“We have to stay healthy and focused but I like our chance to repeat,” Baker said. “Chisholm Trail, Saginaw and Brewer will be tough in our district. For the region, some of the top teams I think are Birdville, Argyle, Mansfield Summit and Amarillo.”
The Bearcats (1-0) secured a 79-54 season-opening win at home over the Trinity Trojans and competed in the Coppell Tournament ahead of Thanksgiving Week games at Midlothian Heritage and Eagle Mountain.
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