You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who enjoyed Sparta’s Cinderella run last year more than Jacob Lafferty.
“That’s like the main thing usually, you know, besides winning, you know, you want to go out there and have fun and do the best you can but all the time, but you should try to have fun,” Jacob said.
The all-state forward even found out it’s possible for some fans, and officials to think you’re having too much fun.
When Jacob threw down a thunderous dunk in last year’s district title game, he stared down an opposing player, and stuck out his tongue Michael Jordan style.
Jacob did not draw a technical foul, but the officials were quick to talk him into toning it down, just a little bit.
“A lot of people don’t like how I act after I dunk it,” Jacob said. “But I like to get the crowd engaged, you know, get hyped. It’s fun.”
In the debate about letting the kids play or potentially showing up an opponent — Sparta Head Coach Deric Link says he wants his players to respect the game.
“I think we have to have that fine line of being passionate and not overly cocky,” Link said. “I think there’s a difference.”
But at the same time, he knows confidence and passion are what makes Jake tick.
“I think when Jake is having fun, period, he’s at his best,” Link said.
So as this senior tries to balance his best behavior with his love of the game, one thing is crystal clear: his goal for this season.
“Final Four,” Jacob said. “And I think we have the tools to make it there. Just because we’re a lot more gritty this year. We have dudes who actually just want to get out and guard.”
“I think he’s on a mission,” Link added. “And if we can just channel that positive energy in the right direction. I think we have as good a chance as anybody.”
It’s a chance to take the Sparta program to new heights as the Trojans try to build on their district title and last season’s runner-up finish in the Blue & Gold Tournament.
