ROUND ROCK, Texas — NineThunder basketball teams from multiple age groups closed out the season this weekend at the THSSBC end-of-season tournament, bringing athletes, coaches, and families together for a final weekend of competition and community.
The New Braunfels Thunder 12U boys team, coached by Seth McCord and Kyle Jankowski, captured the first state championship in program history, marking a milestone moment for the homeschool basketball program.
Coach McCord remarked, “We went into this tournament focused on two things: having fun and doing our best. The boys did both exceptionally well. They played hard, supported each other, and truly had a blast out there.”
The Thunder team finished the tournament undefeated, going 4–0. The title reflects both on-court execution and the long-term development focus that defines Thunder basketball within the homeschool athletics community.
The Thunder JV boys team, coached by Mitchell James, Spencer James, and Chase Horcica, also turned in a notable performance, finishing fourth in their division after a strong run through pool play and bracket action. The placement capped a season of challenges and growth for this team that has put perseverance on display.
The Round Rock tournament brought together Thunder teams from multiple divisions, providing a weekend centered on shared experiences, encouragement, and community. While not all teams advanced deep into championship play, athletes and families spent the weekend supporting one another and competing in an environment that emphasized Christlike character, diligent effort, and program unity.
Men’s varsity coach and Thunder basketball program leader Preston James reflected on the tournament weekend, “What a great weekend,” James said. “So many great strides for our teams, memorable moments, and the character of our program continues to impress.”
The tournament concluded the Thunder basketball season, sending teams into the offseason encouraged by progress made on the court and strengthened relationships built within the program. The basketball community will get together once more to celebrate their season on February 16th.

The THSSBC tournament scripture for the weekend was Hebrews 12:11: “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”