COLUMBUS, Ohio — Logan Duncomb has sharp elbows. Alec Pfriem is a handful on the low block or on the wing.
Moeller senior guards Chase Harding and Jared Becker nevertheless relish the opportunity to guard their classmates in practice. The 6-foot-2 Harding and 6-foot-4 Becker are members of Moeller’s “Gold Team.”
The Gold Team analyzes opponents’ film and then simulates that squad against the Blue Team or Moeller’s regular rotation of varsity players during practice and game-planning sessions.
“We have one team,” Moeller coach Carl Kremer said. “However, ‘Gold Team’ is an important part of our culture. Gold Team is really about a role. Our goal is that everyone knows their role, accepts their role and eventually stars in their role. This concept is consistent with our coaching staff, players on the court and student coaches. We all contribute our individual gifts to the collective benefit of all.”
As Moeller (27-0) prepares to play Lakewood St. Edward (19-8) in the Division I state boys’ basketball semifinal at 6 p.m. at the Schottenstein Center, Becker and Harding will support their teammates in any way possible.
That often includes calling out the other team’s plays.
“I feel like we are ready,” Becker said Friday morning. “We have prepared all week. We really want to get there and just play.”
Harding and Becker enjoy their roles and see it as an opportunity to grow their leadership skills in life as well as in basketball.
“We just love Moeller’s culture and what they are doing,” Becker said.
Both were able to attend a Moeller alumni event in the Columbus area Thursday night for the team. They know the connections made through the Moeller basketball program will help them for the future.
Becker plans to attend the University of Dayton. He’s enjoyed helping the team in practice, which includes a few blocks of sophomore 6-foot-9 center Duncomb.
Much to his teammates' glee, Becker closed out Friday morning practice at St. Francis DeSales with a half-court shot.
“J-Beck has been a great asset for our team,” Kremer said. “He’s a late bloomer who has really emerged as a talented player. He often plays the spot as the other team’s best player. He’s a great kid with a positive attitude.”
Harding is considering Notre Dame and Villanova for college. He’s appreciated the time spent with his teammates including a holiday trip to Florida late last year.
“Chase is a focused, get-the-job-done type of kid,” Kremer said. “His effort and toughness help keep our practices at a high level. He clearly models our four core values on and off the floor.”
As for guarding Pfriem, a third-team all-state selection and Bellarmine University signee, Harding smiles. He’s glad Pfriem is on the Crusaders’ team.
“If there is a play where he gets the ball on the block or at the elbow, I am done,” Harding said. “Other than that I try my best.”
