By Chris Parker
Aurora boys basketball is under new leadership coming off a 20-9 district championship season.
First-time head coach Carson Cavalier takes over this season.
“I recently finished a six-year college basketball career and I’m excited to bring that experience, energy, and perspective to Aurora,” Cavalier said. “Competing at the college level taught me what it takes to prepare, compete, and lead — lessons I’m now applying to our players every day. Basketball has been my life for a long time, and I’m thrilled to take what I’ve learned and help build something special here.”
Aurora’s tradition was a key selling point for Cavalier in taking the head job at Aurora.
“Aurora has a proud tradition and a community that truly supports its athletes,” Cavalier said. “The opportunity to lead this program and invest in young men who want to work hard and represent their town the right way was an easy choice. Being fresh out of college basketball, I can relate to today’s players and bring a modern, competitive energy to the program while honoring the tradition that’s already here.”
Aurora lost several key players from last season’s team, so it will fall to many new players to build off the district championship season.
“We have to continue raising the standard every day,” Cavalier said. “A lot of players from that championship team graduated, so this year’s group has to build its own identity. We’re implementing a motion-style offense that emphasizes spacing, movement, and unselfish play — something fresh and exciting for our players. Our focus is on toughness, effort, and doing the little things right. If we stay disciplined and keep growing in this new system, we’ll continue to build lasting success.”
Senior guard Thomas Lara is the lone returning varsity player.
“Thomas has stepped up in a big way,” Cavalier said. “He’s been a leader since day one — vocal, consistent, and showing the younger guys what it looks like to compete at the varsity level. His experience and leadership are invaluable as we transition into a new era.”
Casen Brown (junior guard), Cooper Brown (sophomore guard) and Creed Kloss (sophomore forward) will be newcomers who will have an impact.
Cavalier on Casen Brown: “A steady, skilled guard who competes every possession and brings toughness on both ends.”
Cavalier on Cooper Brown: “High-energy player who can score, defend, and push the pace. He’s had a strong offseason and continues to improve daily.”
Cavalier on Kloss: “Brings length, rebounding, and a physical presence that gives us versatility inside.”
This group of players has bought into Cavalier’s style.
“This group has fully embraced the motion-style system and the pace and energy that come with it,” Cavalier said. “Practices are fast, competitive, and full of teaching moments. The players have bought in, and that culture of effort and buy-in will be our biggest strength.”
Cavalier looks for his young team to improve as they get more comfortable with his system.
“With so many new faces, we’ll need to continue learning how to execute within our motion offense, make quick reads, and handle pressure situations would be the thing we need to improve on the most,” Cavalier said. “As our confidence and communication grow, I believe we’ll make major strides.”
Aurora hosts a jamboree on Nov. 21 with Crane and Clever before opening the regular season Dec. 1-6 at the Clever Tournament.
“A successful season for us means establishing the foundation — a culture built on toughness, accountability, effort, and togetherness,” Cavalier said. “If we’re improving every week, competing the right way, and growing as teammates and leaders, that’s a win. We want to build something that lasts, not just for this year but for the future of Aurora basketball.”
