MACARTHUR HIGHLANDERS
Coach: MARCO GAGLIARDI
2024-25: 20-9
The Lawton MacArthur boys basketball team enters this season with a fresh roster, youthful energy, and plenty of challenges ahead. Under ninth-year head coach Marco Gagliardi, the Highlanders are looking to rebuild after losing 14 of their top 15 players to graduation and the transfer portal following last year’s 20-win campaign. While the roster is young, Coach Gagliardi sees opportunity in the adversity, knowing that competing in one of the toughest districts in the state will help fast-track the development of his newcomers.
“This year is all about growth,” Gagliardi said. “We’re going to be tested every night, but that’s exactly what our young players need to get better and gain confidence. The challenges we face will help this group mature quickly.”
Leading the young Highlanders are juniors Michael Williams (6-1, Jr.) and Aeden Gilbert (6-1, Jr.), both 6-foot-1 players capable of making an impact on both ends of the court. Williams, a forward, and Gilbert, a guard, bring experience from last season and are expected to provide stability and scoring punch for the team. Juniors, Zane Alston (6-3, Jr.) and Navarro Hennings (6-0, Jr.) add size and versatility to the frontcourt, complementing senior Kenyon Gabriel (6-4, Sr.), who brings leadership, toughness, and a presence inside.
The sophomore class, including Torrin Woullard (6-0, So.), Amani Gilbert (5-10, So.), and Jaylen Fisher (6-0, So.), will play important roles as they gain experience in a highly competitive environment. Each has the skills to contribute offensively and defensively, and their growth will be key to the team’s success.
Coach Gagliardi is also excited about the talented freshman group, featuring Harrison Harper (6-0, Fr.), Shaun Jackson (6-0, Fr.), and Sylus Furr (6-0, Fr.), who bring energy, athleticism, and a willingness to learn. “Our freshmen have a chance to step in and make an immediate impact,” Gagliardi said. “They’re skilled, they’re competitive, and they’re eager to prove themselves at the varsity level.”
While this season will be a learning experience for the Highlanders, the mix of talented underclassmen, experienced juniors, and a strong senior leader creates a foundation for growth. With grit, determination, and the daily grind of their tough district, Lawton basketball is preparing for a season of challenges, lessons, and excitement as their young roster takes shape.
