Sachems boys basketball coach Joseph Bertrand optimistic about upcoming season

By Dom Nicastro

As the Saugus boys basketball team gears up for the 2024-2025 season, head oach Joseph Bertrand, now in his fourth year leading the program, is optimistic about the strides the team can make.

Coming off a 4-16 season that saw the team finish last in their conference, Bertrand is focused on fostering growth and building on increased participation this year.

“We’ve had a tough few seasons, but this year feels different,” Bertrand said. “The increase in participation is huge for us, and it’s exciting to see the program grow to the point where all three levels—varsity, JV and freshman—are full without having to bring up eighth graders.”

With a full roster at each level, Saugus basketball is poised to create continuity and depth across the program. Bertrand is still evaluating leadership within the team, as no captains have been named yet, but he noted that leadership qualities are emerging among key players.

“There’s definitely a shift happening,” he said. “A few players are stepping up and showing great leadership qualities, which is exactly what we need to take the next step as a team.”

The varsity roster features a mix of seasoned seniors and promising underclassmen:

• Cam Victor (Sr)
• Danny Zeitz (Sr)
• Javi Cruz Fuentes (Sr)
• Adam Ballaji (Sr)
• Ryan Shea (Jr)
• Jordan Rodriguez (Jr)
• Nathan Soroko (Jr)
• Cristian Dean (Jr)
• Huey Josama (Jr)
• Bryan Hernandez Malpera (Jr)
• Ryan Dupuy (Fr)

One of the team’s biggest strengths this season lies in their willingness to share the ball, a quality that Bertrand believes will make them more competitive.

“We have a solid combination of quickness and height,” he said. “That gives us different options for our play style. Whether it’s playing fast or taking advantage of mismatches inside, we’ll have the flexibility to adapt.”

Despite these positives, Bertrand acknowledges that there are areas needing improvement. Turnovers have been an issue, and he’s making ball security a priority in practice.

Saugus’ playmaking ability is one of its strengths, but it has to come with discipline. The Sachems need to focus on taking care of the ball to give themselves the best chance to win games.

The Northeastern Conference remains highly competitive, with many teams returning experienced players. Bertrand sees this as both a challenge and an opportunity for his team to grow.

The league is going to be tough again, but Bertrand feels the Sachems can surprise some people. It’s all about putting in the work, staying focused and playing as a team, the coach added.

As Saugus looks to turn the corner after a rebuilding year, Bertrand remains confident in the potential of his squad. With increased participation, emerging leadership and a focus on improving fundamentals, the Sachems are ready to make their mark.

Saugus has the pieces to compete. Now it’s about putting it all together on the court.

With tip-off just around the corner (Friday, Dec. 13, at Salem, 7 p.m., fans won’t have to wait long to see if Saugus can rise to the occasion.