Northampton’s J.J. Kolumber understands what a difference a year can make with his basketball team. The Konkrete Kids began the post-Christmas season with an overall 5-2 record and were 7-2 as of this article.

“I think the biggest difference from last year is our confidence,” said the senior. “Last season, we came into the season with no experience and struggled to start.

“As the season went along, we picked it up. Once we started winning, we became way more confident and have carried that into this season.”

Kolumber credited the play of sophomore starters Noah Walakovits and Brady Simock as well as senior Shamir Dunbar’s play off the bench.

He sees his team’s early success as a result of a growing bond.

“Our chemistry is great because most of us have been playing together for a long time,” said Kolumber, who averages over 11 points and three assists per game. “We’re all friends and hang out with each other outside of basketball.

“Over the summer and fall, the coaches pushed us to be in shape. We did the most conditioning this year then we have since I have been in the program. It has really been a help because we have been pushing the pace, pressing, running traps, playing tight aggressive man defense, and of course, playing the match-up zone.”

Head coach Matt Scholl appreciates his guard’s consistent contributions, and envisions him being a part of the game for a long time.

“J.J. has been a big part of our program,” said Scholl. “He has a high basketball IQ, and he has worked hard to get stronger and quicker. We feel confident that he can get us in any offense, and his defensive intensity has improved.

“JJ has bought into our system going back to his sophomore year when he was a huge part of the scout team when we made a long run in the state tournament. If am around long enough, I would love to see J.J. coaching at Northampton one day.

Kolumber, who has been playing the game since he was four, credits his father, Scott, for guiding him every step of the way. He remains confident that his team can play deep into the season.

“I believe that we can keep building and be one of the best teams in the EPC (East Penn Conference),” added Kolumber. “I think our best basketball is yet to come.”