Tony Lopresti and Brooks Thrasher commit to play college basketball

photo by Coggins Photography Tony Lopresti drives toward the basket on a fast break after receiving a pass from Brooks Thrasher. TKA would proceed to beat Fulton Science Academy 77-55. Lopresti and Thrasher would combine for 31 points in this dominant home win.

Seniors Tony Lopresti and Brooks Thrasher have chosen to pursue college basketball, capping their historic season at The King’s Academy. Lopresti, an athletic offensive forward, and Thrasher, a sharp-shooting scorer, leave behind their notable careers at TKA after leading the varsity team for three seasons. Lopresti will attend Franciscan University in Ohio, and Thrasher will head to North Carolina at Brevard College, both players on academic scholarships. 

“My favorite part of my basketball journey has definitely been the relationships I made with my new friends and coaches,” Lopresti said. “Playing at King’s, the brotherhood I’ve made with this team has been amazing.”

Lopresti has played basketball the past twelve years, following the footsteps of his father, Billy Lopresti, who played at Oglethorpe University. Tony also grew up attending their family-owned basketball training camp, Southeast Basketball Association (SEBA). He has played under Coach Hereth the past two seasons, after transferring in from Mount Paran Christian. 

“Tony is like a Swiss Army knife, he can be utilized in a variety of ways and is a very complete player,” Coach Brett Hereth said. “He plays the game with such good pace and control. I think his greatest area of improvement since joining the program is his shooting and his confidence in himself.”

Thrasher’s path began at a young age, as he started playing basketball in kindergarten. Despite early challenges including surgeries on both legs and a broken elbow, he persevered to develop into a better player.

“When I was younger, the doctor said I might not be able to walk again,” Thrasher said. “I had a broken elbow before eighth grade, and I had to push through it. I really owe a lot to people like [my middle school coach] Josh Bennett who helped me change my shot and become a better player.”

Both stars drew attention from multiple colleges, but each ultimately chose a program that matched their goals and values. 

“What stood out to me about Franciscan University was the culture and the hardworking environment,” Lopresti said. “It’s also a Christian school, which is important to me.”

Thrasher also emphasized the importance of being wanted by his future program. 

“A lot of schools showed interest, but Coach Burgess and Coach Casey recruited the hardest,” Thrasher said, “They came down to our practices and games to support me, and that meant a lot. I wanted to go where I was wanted.”

Brooks brought energy and motivation to win, while Tony led thoughtfully through his scoring and “wise words.” 

“The biggest separator for Brooks and Tony is the consistent exposure they’ve had throughout their high school journey,” Coach Hereth said. “They’ve put in work every offseason to grow their game. Tony is elite at reading defenses and finding the open man, and Brooks has developed into a great shooter. It’s a huge deal for these guys to achieve their dream of playing college basketball.”

As Thrasher and Lopresti advance to the next chapter of their careers, TKA celebrates their accomplishments and the example they set for young players. Both seniors credit their families, coaches, teammates and most of all Jesus for their growth and success.

“My greatest advice is to be where your feet are and enjoy each step of the way,” Coach Hereth said. “Whether you are playing a ton, riding the bench or injured, there is something to learn in each season. Enjoy it, and be open to what God has for you.”