Steven Tolbert II ‘05 knows Campbell Hall basketball inside and out. As a CH student, in addition to being a multiple time all-league and all-CIF football player, he was also a multiple time all-league basketball player. As captain of the 2005 boys’ varsity basketball team, he helped the team and school win its first State Championship with an undefeated record. He went on to play football and basketball for Wesleyan University and is now the CH Varsity Basketball Head Coach.
When reflecting on winning the State Championship, Coach Tolbert noted: “That season was really special, but that success didn’t happen overnight.” Having transferred to Campbell Hall in the 10th grade when his family moved to Los Angeles, it took time to develop relationships with his new teammates, most of whom had been at CH since elementary or middle school. But over time, the basketball team started to gel in indefinable ways, winning games and advancing. By his senior year, a perfect storm of talent that included now notable NBA players Jrue Holiday ‘08 and Justin Holiday ‘07, camaraderie on and off the court, determination, and hard work led the 2004-05 varsity basketball team to victory.
“Team chemistry is really important,” Coach Tolbert explained. “A lot of teams with talent don’t achieve their full potential because the chemistry isn’t there. It takes everyone working together to create a cohesive team and ultimately, that’s an important lesson that serves players for the rest of their lives.” How players interact with each other off the court is just as important. “While the buck always stops with the coach,” he said, “player-led teams are always the most successful. Taking ownership of your actions and treating others with respect are essential.”
Team sports at Campbell Hall is a big part of the high school experience for many students. “It’s a great way to be a part of something bigger than yourself and to represent your school with pride,” Coach Tolbert said. Physical activity is also key to helping stave off depression and anxiety and team sports have the added benefit of building connections with fellow students. Coach Tolbert noticed that when students returned to school after pandemic restrictions were lifted, students were more eager than ever to connect through sports. It also benefits the community as a whole. “The Viking Spirit gives us a huge home court advantage,” he continued. “Our student section during home games is one of the best around. It makes a big difference in how we play the game and gives our community a sense of pride - that’s invaluable.”
Coach Tolbert has developed a comprehensive pre-season and in-season training regimen to help players get into peak physical shape. “The goal is to always compete at the highest level of high school basketball,” he noted. Drills increase speed and athleticism while strength and conditioning with Coach Danny Kohn helps develop muscles and stamina needed for games. They also review team and individual film to improve performance. Coach Tolbert also helps players develop their “Basketball I.Q.” - to learn and internalize what makes a bad, good, or great shot.
But more than anything, Coach Tolbert prioritizes the wellbeing of his players. “I care about all the players as people, not just as athletes,” he explained. “I have an open door policy and encourage players to talk to me about anything at any time. Athletics are more than about winning a title -- they’re about a growth mindset. That’s why you play.”