Columbus East High School

The Columbus East freshman boys basketball team capped off a historic season with an undefeated 20-0 record, securing the Hoosier Hills Conference freshman title. Freshman Head coach Damon Hunter sat down with Sports Information Director, Dennis Pierce, to reflect on the team's journey, key moments, and the lessons he hopes his players will carry forward. Q: Looking back on this season, what are you most proud of regarding the team's growth and development? > Coach Hunter: The thing I am most proud of is their dedication. Their dedication to working hard, to each other, and to the staff. They really play hard for each other, they cheer for each other, and they always think team first. Never worrying about stats—just the results. Q: What were some key moments or turning points that helped shape the team's success this year? > Coach Hunter: A key moment for us was the very first game. The offseason seems so long, and you're just ready to play someone else. Our first game was against one of, if not the best, teams we played all year. They were tall, athletic, and talented. We just were tougher, and in that game, I think we all knew it was going to be a good year. Another key moment was two come-from-behind wins in a row over the Bloomington schools. We were down several starters against Bloomington North and fought back. Against Bloomington South, that was one of the most well-coached and talented teams we played. Overcoming big deficits was exciting and proved a lot about our team's character. Q: What lessons from this season do you hope your players carry forward as they continue their basketball journey at Columbus East? > Coach Hunter: I just hope they keep being team-first guys. That type of attitude is coachable, and it wins at every level. Q: Beyond basketball, what habits or values do you want your players to embrace to ensure success in the classroom and as student-athletes? > Coach Hunter: Showing up and engaging. They are a group of young men that, so long as they keep showing up and keep engaging, they will be successful. Whether in the classroom, on the football field, the baseball diamond, or the basketball court, that mindset will serve them well. Q: As these players prepare for the next level, what advice do you have for them to stay motivated and continue improving both on and off the court? > Coach Hunter: Keep working and don't be afraid to ask for help. They have a wonderful group of parents that support them in every way possible, so they should never think they have to do it alone. We had the most fans at freshman games I have ever seen. That had a lot to do with how they play the game, but even more to do with how much people support them in our community. So just ask when they need help—I know I will be there for them as well. With a perfect season behind them, the future is bright for this special group of players. As they continue their journey through the Columbus East basketball program, one thing is certain—teamwork, dedication, and resilience will always be their foundation. As we wrapped up our conversation, Coach Hunter took a moment to reflect once more on what made this team special. "It was never about individual stats—it was always about the team. That’s what made this group so fun to coach." With a handshake and a thank you, the interview came to a close—much like the season itself. Great work ethic and a team-first mentality that will carry these players far, both on and off the court.