Belief, in and of itself, isn’t going to carry the Plum boys basketball team to the WPIAL Class 5A playoffs for the first time since 2016. But the Mustangs have shown an immense amount of dedication to the sport in the offseason that senior guard Will Beckner believes will produce dividends.
“We know what it’s like to be in a position where we didn’t make the playoffs,” Beckner said. “We put our head down this summer and put a lot of work in. We need to learn how to win games. We went into some games last year not believing we could win, where this year we think we could compete with anyone.”
Plum won only one section game last season. This year, the Mustangs are in Section 2-5A with Armstrong, Hampton, Indiana, Kiski Area, Penn Hills and Shaler.
First-year coach Dave Pucka will lead the Mustangs. He said he was impressed with the turnout he had at open gyms, along with fall and summer leagues. He said Beckner and Max Grice hardly missed any of those opportunities they had to play.
“It’s contagious,” Pucka said. “I’m looking forward to laying the foundation as to where Plum basketball can be. We want to build relationships with the kids and their families. This team has potential, and my coaches and I are excited to get the season started.”
Beckner said the Mustangs had several games during the summer leagues that made them feel like they were making progress. He was proud of how Plum competed against players from Allderdice, which won the City League championship last season.
“Our defense struggled to hold people under 50 points last season,” Beckner said. “I think we can create a lot of turnovers in some sets with our length and athleticism.”
Playing defense will be a calling card for Plum early in the season. Grice said the Mustangs can present difficult matchups for any opponent.
“We have a versatile defense,” Beckner said. “We are able to start in man and switch to zone or trap. We can help out the big men. Whatever we need to do, we can do it.”
Junior forward Owen Proskin will be an important piece underneath the basket. Pucka said he has a strong skill set.
“Owen is a multi-sport athlete,” Proskin said. “He had a long track season, and after the season ended he was competing at the next open gym. He’s a player we have high expectations for.”
Pucka said this group is prepared well for the rigors of competition. The Mustangs are hoping to make a push for the playoffs.
“This group is different,” Pucka said. “They are hungry to succeed.”
Plum boys at a glance
Coach: Dave Pucka
Last year’s record: 8-14 (1-9 Section 2-5A)
Returning starters: Max Grice (Sr., F), Will Beckner (Sr., G),
Top newcomers: Trey McMurray (So., G), Mekhi Daniel (Jr., G)