The Benjamin boys’ basketball program is stepping into the 2024-25 season with a fresh perspective. With the arrival of the new head coach, Coach Chris Champeau, the Buccaneers are embarking on a new era built on pride and tradition.
“I love this school, man. The 12 values are awesome. These kids are awesome,” Coach Champeau stated. “They know how to play together and win and be part of something bigger than themselves.”
Coach Champeau, who goes by the more informal Coach Shempy, has spent the last 20 years coaching and training players from the NBA to college, high school, and middle school. He has also developed a vast network that has created numerous opportunities for his players.
Coach Shempy introduced new traditions, elevated the program’s professionalism, and introduced new gear that students can wear to school.
“Coach Shempy has completely changed the atmosphere,” junior Griffon Alterman expressed. “We’re more disciplined, more connected, and honestly just more excited to come to practice every day. It feels like a fresh start for all of us.”
One of the traditions that took place on Friday, Nov. 14th, was when the team visited the Lower School and, during their assembly, hyped up the crowd with some impressive dunks and threw T-shirts into the sections to lift spirits going into the weekend.
“I thought it was so much fun,” junior Tristan Cameron stated. “Those kids were so happy, and it made us feel good. I hope we have that type of support at our games.”
Among the players embracing this new era is senior Ben Bucker, who steps into his final high school season.
“In my last year, I’m really excited for what’s ahead. Coming over from Jupiter last year, this is my first real season where everything feels settled,” Bucker noted. “Having Coach Shempy leading us just makes it even better. He’s brought a new energy, and I’m more than ready to get to work and have a coach like this beside us.”
“Depending on who we play, the game plan changes, but we have three principles that we live by: play smart, play hard, play together,” Coach Shempy noted. “If we pinpoint those details, we’ll be prepared for whatever destiny comes our way.”
Junior Logan Buchanan talked about the game he’s most excited for.
“I’m definitely most excited for the Saint Andrew’s game. They’re always tough, and playing a team like that brings out the best in us. I love those big-environment games where the gym is loud and everyone’s locked in.”
The Bucs play at St. Andrews on Dec. 2nd at 7 PM.
Buchanan is coming off a successful sophomore season, leading the team with 13.1 points per game on 51% field goal percentage, eight rebounds per game, and two assists per game.
“This year, I’m looking to expand my game. To be more of a creator, get downhill more, and be a better leader on both ends,” Buchanan explained. “I’m lucky because my teammates make everything easier. We’ve got shooters spacing the floor, and guards who push the tempo. It lets me play to my strengths.”
Heading into this new season under Coach Shempy, senior Johnny Havlicek emphasized the potential impact of Benjamin’s freshman class.
“Something about these freshmen is they listen,” Havlicek said. “They play hard, and you can tell they want playing time, and they want to win. That’s so huge for our depth this year.”
“I’m excited to be here,” freshman Connor Buchanan stated. “I want to make the most out of it. The older guys have been awesome. Coach Shempy has been very supportive, and I’m ready to do whatever the team needs to help us win this season.”
With a demanding schedule and a united locker room, Benjamin basketball is ready to make noise this season.
