With an impressive 15-2 record, the basketball team is eager to build on its promising start to the season, marked by decisive victories over Landry, McKinley, Vandebilt Catholic, and H.L. Bourgeois. The team, which currently ranks fourth in the state’s power ranking system, has a challenging schedule ahead. Head coach Chris Jennings ’78 expresses confidence in his squad, describing them as “motivated and driven,” highlighting their high energy and focus.

The starting lineup features seniors Brewer Nitcher, Ethan Lapeze, and Ben Cimini, complemented by juniors Zach Lagraize and Brennan Pitts. Nitcher leads the team in scoring, averaging 18 points per game, supported by a balanced offensive effort from Lapeze, Cimini, Lagraize, Pitts, and junior Tanner Hughes. The bench offers depth and versatility, with senior Anthony Montablano providing leadership and defensive prowess. Juniors Hughes, Sven Jensen, and Tyler Farley enhance the scoring options, while Tyler Oufnac and Colin Gravener bolster the defense and rebounding. Sophomores Elijah Carter, Jack McGuire, and Duke Nitcher bring additional talent and will see varsity minutes.

Jesuit recently hosted the inaugural Blue Jay Christmas Classic at the Benson Arena, featuring The Willow School, alongside six Jesuit schools from out of state: Rockhurst, Regis (New York), St. Xavier (Cincinnati), Canisius (Buffalo), Loyola (Baltimore) and Belen (Miami). Jesuit New Orleans advanced to the semifinals with a 13-1 tournament record, defeating Willow in the first round, while Rockhurst overcame Belen in another matchup. The Blue Jays concluded the tournament in third place, with Nitcher earning a spot on the All-Tournament team.

The tournament also included a halftime dedication ceremony naming the court in honor of basketball team captain Peter Michell ‘63 and former Jesuit coach Kevin Trower.

To stay updated on the 2024–2025 season, you can find the complete schedule here. District play is right around the corner with its first match up against St. Augustine on January 24 at Benson Arena.

Watch the live stream replay of the Blue Jay Christmas Classic courtesy of Crescent City Sports.