Berea-Midpark Boys Basketball Overcomes Early Challenges

Titans rally to contend for conference title after unplanned coaching change

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Berea-Midpark High School boys basketball team overcame an unplanned coaching change and early-season struggles to emerge as contenders for the Southwestern Conference championship. After starting the season 2-2, the Titans have rallied behind the leadership of interim head coach Tom Harrington and the play of juniors Nick Reece, Tyson Clay, and Reid Braaten to position themselves for a potential conference title.

Why it matters

Berea-Midpark's ability to overcome adversity and grow as a team throughout the season demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of high school athletes. The Titans' success also highlights the important role of coaching in developing young players and fostering a positive team culture, even when faced with unexpected challenges.

The details

When Berea-Midpark girls basketball coach Kevin Braaten had to return to lead the girls program, former assistant Tom Harrington was elevated to head coach of the boys team in November. Despite the transition, the Titans' core of Reece, Clay, and Braaten have led the team to a 10-3 conference record, tying them atop the Southwestern Conference standings with Olmsted Falls. After starting the season 2-2 and dropping their conference opener, the Titans have found their stride, sweeping rival Elyria and positioning themselves to clinch at least a share of the conference title.

  • The coaching change occurred in November 2025.
  • Berea-Midpark started the season 2-2 and 0-1 in conference play.
  • The Titans can clinch at least a share of the Southwestern Conference title on Tuesday, February 18, 2026 with a win over Avon Lake.
  • Berea-Midpark and Olmsted Falls are currently tied atop the conference standings with 10-3 records.

The players

Tom Harrington

Interim head coach of the Berea-Midpark boys basketball team, previously an assistant coach at Baldwin Wallace University.

Kevin Braaten

Head coach of the Berea-Midpark girls basketball team, who also serves as an assistant coach for the boys team.

Nick Reece

Junior guard and leading scorer for the Berea-Midpark Titans.

Tyson Clay

Junior point guard for the Berea-Midpark Titans.

Reid Braaten

Junior forward for the Berea-Midpark Titans and son of coach Kevin Braaten.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Braaten had a lot of faith in me. He started me my freshman year and really believed in me, but Coach Harrington really believes in me, too, so I have deep respect for both coaches.”

— Tyson Clay, Junior point guard (cleveland.com)

“It was rough at the beginning of the year. We started out maybe just above .500, but there was a point in time where we just came together and realized no matter who our coach is, no matter what's going on, we have to play through adversity.”

— Reid Braaten, Junior forward (cleveland.com)

“The thing about our guys is I think they're discovering how much they care about each other. I don't think they want to let each other down.”

— Tom Harrington, Interim head coach (cleveland.com)

What’s next

The Titans can clinch at least a share of the Southwestern Conference title on Tuesday, February 18, 2026 with a win over Avon Lake. They will then wait to see how Olmsted Falls fares in their game against North Ridgeville on Friday, February 21, 2026.

The takeaway

Berea-Midpark's ability to rally together and overcome an unplanned coaching change and early-season struggles demonstrates the resilience and character of the team. Their success this season highlights the importance of strong leadership, team chemistry, and a willingness to adapt in the face of adversity - qualities that will serve the Titans well both on and off the basketball court.