O’Dea Basketball Season Preview: New Leaders, New Talent, and a Renewed Mission

SEATTLE- As the O’Dea Fighting Irish prepare for the upcoming basketball season, senior guard Levi Orbino steps into a leadership role shaped by three full years of highs, lows, and growth. For Levi, being a senior is more than a title, it’s a responsibility. “Being a senior really changes how I lead the team because I’ve already gone through three full seasons and experienced every high and low,” he said. “All that experience helps me guide the team with more confidence and maturity.” 

Levi’s message for this year’s younger players is simple, take everything one day at a time and trust the process. “Enjoy every moment on the court,” he added, explaining how fast four years move. His favorite memories from his time in the program aren’t the blowout wins, but the tough, competitive games where every possession mattered. Those battles, he says, are what stay with you and drive you into the next season. 

O’Dea enters the new year coming off a 15-9 record, including 10-4 in Metro League play, before falling to Bishop Blanchet in the Metro playoffs. Those difficult moments, Levi says, have become fuel. “The losses and tough games were huge lessons. Those experiences are pushing us to be better and fix what hurt us before.” 

Even with last season’s standout Braylon Webb no longer on the roster, O’Dea isn’t lacking talent. Players such as Brian Webster, Josiah Bowman, and Peyton Brooks are stepping into bigger roles. The Irish also have a strong core of juniors and sophomores ready to make their mark and help fill the gaps left by graduating seniors. 

Levi feels his own game has jumped to another level heading into the season. “I’m more mature, more composed, and I understand the game at a deeper level,” he said. His main motivation this year is clear: to win and achieve a college scholarship. “On the days I don’t feel like hooping, I think about that dream and lock in.” 

Under Coach Kerr, O’Dea is aiming for a successful and disciplined season. The road won’t be easy, with tough Metro matchups ahead, especially against Rainier Beach and Eastside Catholic, two of the league’s most competitive programs. Still, the Irish believe they have the chemistry, depth, and leadership to rise to the challenge.