Preseason Look: New Coaches Aim to Rebrand MacArthur Basketball in 2025–26

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HOUSTON — A new era has arrived for MacArthur High School basketball. With both programs under new leadership this season, the Generals and Lady Generals are looking to reset their culture, restore pride, and build toward long-term success.

Over the past three seasons, the boys’ program has recorded a record of 33 wins and 67 losses, with one playoff appearance. The girls’ team has achieved 31 wins and 62 losses during the same period, also reaching the postseason once. As the 2025–26 season gets underway, the boys have a record of 1–4, while the girls stand at 1–6. However, both teams believe that their records do not accurately reflect the solid foundation being established behind the scenes.

Spencer Brings Fresh Start, Structure to the Generals

MacArthur’s boys’ basketball program is now led by head coach Shannon Spencer, who brings over 25 years of experience in high school, college, and AAU basketball. His goal since arriving has been to establish a fresh start rooted in discipline, consistency, and commitment.

“Our players are starting to experience structure within the program,” Spencer said. “They see the coaches working hard and being prepared every day. The players are beginning to understand the value of consistency and the importance of building good days progressively.”

Spencer describes the team’s identity in one word: committed. The players are routinely in the gym by 5:30 a.m., embracing what Spencer refers to as the standard for the new era of Generals basketball.

“They have grasped the concept that hard work is undefeated,” he said.

The Generals return several key players from last season who have played a vital role in bringing about this cultural shift. Seniors Andrew Victrum, Frankie Ramirez, Myjah Davis, and Tre Allen lead the veteran group, along with juniors Josh Morales and Henrie Ramirez.

Victrum, a senior guard and the vocal leader of the team, said Spencer’s impact has been immediate.

“I love where the program is now,” Victrum said. “My goals are to put MacArthur back on the map, win the district, and make a playoff run.” He added that he spent the offseason improving his shooting and strength to prepare for a deeper push this year.

Victrum describes the Generals as “tenacious.”

“Our determination is what will win us the district and take us far in the playoffs,” he said.

Spencer’s message to the MacArthur and Aldine ISD community is straightforward: expect a team that plays with purpose every night.

“MacArthur basketball was once a household name in Houston hoops,” he said. “We are working hard to regain that respect.”

MacArthur opens district play on Jan. 3 against Aldine.

Dennis and the Lady Generals Look to Grow Together

In her first season as head coach of the Lady Generals, Ashley Dennis acknowledges the challenges of taking over a young team. Now in her 12th year of coaching, she says the players have embraced the learning curve.

“We’re growing together,” Dennis said. “The girls are eager to learn and buy into the vision.”

Despite the newness, Dennis has leaders she trusts to set the tone — starting with senior point guard Cortney Upshaw, the team’s floor general.

“As she goes, we go,” Dennis said.

Upshaw took significant steps to prepare for her senior season, focusing on conditioning, extra court time, and conquering the new system.

“My motivation is proving people wrong,” Upshaw said. “We’re the underdogs, and I love that. We get to show everyone what we’re capable of.”

Upshaw also praised sophomore guard Tatianna Medina, who she says deserves more spotlight for her relentless effort.

Other key contributors include Veronica Jimenez, the team’s vocal leader and glue player, and Itzel Guevara, whose athleticism allows her to impact the game on both ends of the floor.

The Lady Generals’ message to the community is clear: this program is building something meaningful.

“We’re working hard every day to get better while building relationships within our community,” Dennis said. “The goal is for MacArthur girls basketball to become a household name not only in Aldine but across the Houston area.”

The Lady Generals face the Lady Cougars on Dec. 16, with district play beginning Jan. 3 against Aldine.