TJ’s Hoop Squad takes on GW for our 50th anniversary.
Artwork by Rebecca Holt
This Friday, February 12, TJ Basketball will battle George Washington in the epic Thunderdome, kicking off TJ’s 50th anniversary and celebrating half a century of continuation. “It’s important to put the spotlight on TJ for the opening of our 50th ceremony,” said Assistant Principal and Athletic Director Lani Nobles. “The building opened August of 1960, so we really want to put an accent on that.”
The magnitude of this celebration will be amplified by the presence of Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper. After the pre-game warm up from 4:45-5:10, the Mayor will enter the gym along with both schools’ teams and cheerleaders. Afterward, the Mayor will give a short speech, and attempt a ceremonial half court shot at both ends of the court. If he makes a basket on one of the ends of the court, that side’s school will receive a prize.
Further competitive spirit is added by the halftime event: a rapid shootout competition between students of both schools. The shootout will consist of two 45-second rounds between teams of eight. During the first round, the girls on each team will shoot as many free throws as possible with the boys rebounding. Afterward, the boys will go up to the basket while the girls rebound. Whichever school has the highest score after both rounds wins.
With such anticipation for the upcoming game, it’s no surprise that Nobles is very energized for the event. “I’m very excited that we’re able to celebrate our 50th anniversary with GW,” said Nobles. “This really gives attention to DPS as a whole.”
According to Nobles, this attention has the potential to display TJ’s success and accomplishments. “Excellence and achievement is really what this is about,” said Nobles.
