GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- The Ottawa Hills Bengals approach the 2025-2026 season with fresh determination and a clear sense of what they want to achieve. Under Coach Dominique Shannon, the team isn’t just chasing wins; they’re focused on growth, leadership, and making a lasting, positive impact on their school community. “The goal for the team this year is for each man to grow their character and represent Ottawa Hills in a positive way,” Shannon said.
Despite having only one senior on the roster, the Bengals are ready to be competitive in the OK White. Shannon believes the team’s youth is a strength. “We’ll be flying around, using our speed and agility. Small, fast, and ferocious is our identity,” he said. Juniors like Cajuan Hureskin, Jayvion Burnette, and Horace Williams are already leading the way, and senior Xzavier Lawler is ready to guide the young players.
“We have a really strong connection chemistry-wise, people understand their roles, and we expect to get a lot more wins this year,” said senior forward Xzavier Lawler.
The Bengals’ approach to team chemistry goes beyond the court. Coaches make it a point to understand each player’s personality and interests, ensuring the team respects and supports one another. On the court, players spend hours studying film and challenging their basketball IQ. “Everybody’s been in the gym working on their skillsets so that when we come together as a team, we are ready,” said junior guard Jayvion Burnette.
The team has made significant strides since last season, particularly in leadership and accountability. “Not every player with have the opportunity to play pro or college ball, so one of the factors we like to focus on is growing them as young men,” Coach Shannon said.
Horace Williams highlighted the team’s hunger and discipline: “We want it more. We’re more hungry than we were last year. Even though we’re young, we’ve got a lot of leaders.” For Lawler, he sees himself as a mentor for the younger players, saying, “My job is to lead the young guys on the right path, showing them the benefit of hard work and discipline every day.”
When it comes to big games, the Bengals remain composed under pressure. Lawler said simply, “We don’t break.” Burnette added, “We come together. We let the outside noise talk because we know what we’re capable of on the biggest stages.”
Their playing style mirrors that confidence: fast-paced offense paired with solid defense. “We push the floor and hit open shots,” Cajuan Hureskin added.
The team has ambitious goals for the season. Lawler hopes to reach the Breslin Center, where the state championship is played, and Burnette wants multiple players to receive all-conference honors. Isaiah Taylor, a junior guard, is focused on something even bigger: “We want to change the narrative of Ottawa.”
Fans can expect high-energy games from a team that thrives on speed, agility, and camaraderie. “People should come watch our games because we’re an energetic team,” Lawler said. Hureskin summed it up perfectly: “We’re the underdogs in our conference, but now we’ve got a good team, good community, good friendships, and we’re ready to prove everyone wrong.”
With a tough mentality and the work ethic to match, the Bengals are poised to make a mark this season, showing that their heart and determination can carry them far—on and off the court.
Important Season Dates
- First Game: December 3
- Game at Van Andel Arena v. Union: December 23
- Youth Night: January 30
- MHSAA Districts: February 23-27
