The boys varsity basketball team’s season has come to an end after being defeated in the sectionals by Elk Mound’s Mounders on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 in Marshfield.
Early into their sectional semifinal match Berlin was behind 20 points with just eight minutes left in the first half. Regardless, Berlin pulled through and cut those 20 points to just six points by halftime.
As the game progressed and was coming to an end, Berlin continued to show great toughness to climb their way back up. With only three seconds ticking on the clock, and only being one point behind, senior Aaron Bartol took charge and tried to put Berlin ahead by stepping up to the freethrow line to shoot two bonus free throws. Bartol made the first basket and missed the second. He ended up tying the game concluding with the two teams going into overtime.
Berlin went into overtime with a strong shot of victory until one of their key players, junior Hayden Redington fouled out, making it difficult for the boys to seal a victory.
“It really did suck, but our experience was very fun and memorable,” James Paskey said.
Despite the boys’ determination and hard work Berlin fell short, bringing an end to their historic season.
“Our biggest accomplishment this year was definitely winning a regional championship. It’s our first one since 2013 so that’s a very big deal,” Head Coach Jeremy Mercer said.
Overall Berlin boys basketball team had an unforgettable season to remember considering it was the first time in over a decade the team had won the regional championship. The team faced challenges such as multiple losses throughout the season.
“We definitely had various games where we lost straight in a row,” Bartol said.
For Bartol, the 2025 season has been the biggest standout moment of his basketball experience at Berlin high school. With playing both point guard and forward, Bartol was a key leader on the team.
“The season was very fun mainly because of the postseason where we won some games. And also because of all of the guys. We all work really well together and learn through each other,” Bartol said.
With Bartol and senior Ryder Beulen graduating this year in May, Berlin will be losing core contributors. The team will need to step up for the next season. Bartol mentioned his confidence in his teammates’ ability to fill in the seniors’ absence.
“They all for sure have to up their roles a bit more, like work together and always find a way which they are all definitely capable of doing,” Bartol said.
With a new conference awaiting the boys next year, Berlin needs to find new strategies and grow as athletes to continue their success. Paskey pointed out the major significance of next year’s off-season work so they can succeed.
“To make it next year we all need to improve and put a lot of work during the off-season,” Paskey said.
Mercer shares how honored he is to be able to work with the boys. He reveals that seeing the togetherness of his group was one of the best parts of his coaching this year.
“The way that they’ve treated each other and continuously picked each other up during the low moments, really just exemplifies what it means to be a team, and these guys have really embraced that,” Mercer said.
Though the boy’s ride ended with a bitter loss, they left behind a team reputation of unshakable teamwork and tough, determined players through their hustle on the court.
“I’m proud of you all. It’s been an incredibly fun ride, and I’m just happy to have been able to be a part of it,” Mercer said.
