Mathews High School Blue Devils boys’ basketball team is gearing up for an exciting start to the 2025-26 season, with the squad’s first official game scheduled for Friday on the road against the Northumberland Indians.
Excitement around the program has been growing, with this year’s tryouts drawing more players than in previous seasons. The increased turnout allowed the varsity team to be filled by upperclassmen, with the exception of one freshman. This, in turn, has opened the opportunity for a larger junior varsity team, allowing for greater development of the younger players, which will feed the program in the upcoming years.
The Blue Devils enter the regular season with experience gained from two preseason scrimmages. Mathews faced the Appomattox Regional Governor’s School and Poquoson High School, securing a solid win over Appomattox and using the matchup against Poquoson to highlight areas for early-season improvement.
Varsity head coach C.K. Ambrose said he is encouraged by the team’s progress and enthusiasm. “We lost a good amount of talent from last season’s team, so now we have some returners and new guys looking to step into bigger roles,” he said. “They have had a good preseason and they’re excited to get the regular season started. Our goal is to be better every time we step on the court, whether that’s in practice or a game. I’m looking forward to working with this group and seeing what they can accomplish.”
Ambrose is no stranger to MHS as he has been a former varsity girls’ basketball head coach and assisted with the boys’ program last year. Assistant coaches who are former players and coaches include Jonathan Matthews, Jake Jackson and Tae Legette. Ambrose noted that the mix of returning players and new contributors has helped shape a motivated roster. With a focus on communication, solid defense and increased ball movement on the offensive end, the Blue Devils hope to build momentum early.
JV head coach Zack Jarosz has returned after coaching the team in the 2023-24 season. “I am excited to be back coaching this team,” he said. “I believe we are well-equipped and prepared to have a great season, with many returning players and leaders who are strong. I expect positive things from our opener on Friday. We are going to enforce pressure and see what we can create.”
The Blue Devils look forward to Friday’s season opener as they have extra motivation with their season ending last year against Northumberland in the second round of the regional playoffs. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. with the JV boys starting the tripleheader followed by both the varsity girls’ and boys’ teams. Supporters are encouraged to travel and cheer on the Blue Devils as they begin what promises to be an exciting season on the court.
The boys’ first home game will be played on Monday beginning at 5:30 p.m. against the Colonial Beach Drifters.