Before the Waterford boys' basketball team's first game against South Summit, coach Reid Monson asked the Ravens to "turn their swagger on." Because the Ravens had never won on that court during Monson's tenure, they didn't have many reasons to be confident.

Regardless, Monson wanted them to send a message to their opponent as they walked on the court. In order to do that, the Ravens had to forget that their arsenal includes just 14 players. Forget that one injury, an illness or a fouled-out player can potentially stop them in their tracks.

Even if they're not feeling particularly confident, Monson wants the Ravens to fake it.

The Ravens have proved that, sometimes, feigning confidence is just as good as having it.

"It's been difficult for our new starters, but we can't show it," senior guard/forward Josh Nilsen said. "We have to play with confidence. The only way you can win is if you believe you can."

Now, "turn your swagger on" has become the Waterford's unofficial motto for this season.

Fortunately, the Ravens have plenty to back up that attitude.

Of course, Waterford's offense starts and ends with 6-foot-10 center Neal Monson. Fortunately, Monson is also the consummate team player -- just as eager to direct traffic and pass the ball to his teammates as he is to slam down statement-making dunks. Given the constant double and triple team pressure that surrounds him, it's a role also developed out of necessity.

But the Ravens know that one-man shows don't win championships.

Following the graduation of four key starters, however, Monson was unsure who would be able to step into the big roles to support their big man.

Seniors Christian Priskos, Alec Mika and Nilsen were the obvious picks -- but none of them had much varsity playing experience.

They quickly caught up.

After a somewhat reckless, rocky start to his pass game, Priskos has settled into his role and now makes smart passes.

"He sees things that other players don't," Monson said.

Nilsen, also a member of Highland's rugby team, brings a unique endurance and toughness to the court. Mika, also an All-State lacrosse player, brings a similar athleticism to the Ravens' game.

Their transition was aided by the Ravens drop back to the 2A classification. It's also given a group of seven seniors the opportunity to finish their high school careers on a winning note.

"The guys are much better as a team than individuals," Monson said. "I think we're starting to figure out what we can do as a group of five people."

Still, the Ravens have a ways to go en route to a coveted state title. This week's rematch against South Summit provides a key opportunity to gain the upperhand over the Braves in Region 14.

Priskos said the Ravens are much better prepared for round two against the Braves. And, of course, they'll put on their "swag" to show it.

"It's definitely going to be tough, but we've worked some things out and found our game," Priskos said. "There may only be 14 of us, but [teams] need to respect us."