Basketball

Program Philosophy

The De Smet Jesuit Basketball Program is committed to developing young men into leaders while building a culture of accountability, trust, and togetherness. The Spartan Basketball Coaching Staff teaches student-athletes the importance of self-discipline and how to compete consistently at a high level. Our goal is to prepare each student-athlete for the demands required for the next level academically, physically, and mentally. 

Program History

Welcome to the rich tradition of De Smet Jesuit Spartans Basketball. In just 52 years, De Smet has compiled 5 State Championships, 13 Finals Four appearances, 33 District Championships, 10 Metro Catholic Conference Championships and 28 20-Win seasons. The Spartans have also produced 96 College Basketball Players including the legendary Steve Stipanovich, who was drafted by the Indiana Pacers as the 2^nd Overall Pick in the NBA Draft.

2020-2021 Season Highlights

De Smet Jesuit Basketball put together yet another historical season under the leadership of Coach Kent Williams. Highlights include:

• Winning De Smet Jesuit’s 33^rd Basketball District Championship, the first in eight years
• A mainstay in the top five for STLToday.com’s Top 10 Area Large Schools
• Winning the Circle 7 Showdown for the third straight year
• Becoming the first St. Louis area school in three seasons to defeat Vashon with a 48-41 victory in the final regular season game

In a COVID-shortened season featuring only 22 games, the Spartans played six games versus State Final Four Teams, including three State Champions, to compete once again with one of the toughest schedules in the State of Missouri. 

As a team, the Spartans averaged just under 60 points per game while holding their opponents to 47 points per game. The Spartans played this season without Missouri Tiger signee Yaya Keita, who sustained a season-ending knee injury in the fall. Junior guard Brian Taylor picked up the slack as he led the team in scoring, assists, and steals while becoming De Smet’s first All-State selection since 2013. Senior Jeremiah Walker became the school’s 17^th player to join the 1,000-point club. Senior Sekou Gassama set a school record vs. Chaminade in a game where he scored 24 points while shooting 17-20 from the free-throw line. Both the makes and attempts became new school records. Sophomore Justin Duff also set a school record with eight steals vs. Lafayette in the first game of the season. 

Awards:

All-State

Brian Taylor (junior)

All-District

Sekou Gassama (senior)

Brennan Lovette (junior)

Brian Taylor (junior)

Jeremiah Walker (senior)

1^st Team All-MCC

Brian Taylor (junior)

2^nd Team All-MCC

Sekou Gassama (senior)

Jeremiah Walker (senior)

COVID GUIDELINES FOR BASKETBALL GAMES

• All games are CLOSED to the public.
• Each rostered player is allowed 2 people at the game.
• Doors will open 15 minutes prior to game time.
• Fans must leave after the conclusion of the game and can not stay for the next game.
• Everyone must wear masks at all times.