I’ve always been a big fan of making New Year’s resolutions that are attainable.

Everyone says they want to work out more, lose weight or drop a bad habit. It’s great to try. But most people simply don’t stick to those things.

My most recent resolutions have been simple. I’ve pledged to finish every glass of water I get at a restaurant (don’t want to be wasteful) and to keep in better touch with friends and family.

I realize those sound a little lame, but I’m still going on both of them.

With that in mind, I’ve come up with one resolution for the boys and girls basketball teams at Lawrence High and Free State that I think would help each of them in their bid to challenge for a state title this season.

Like my goals, these are all attainable.

First up, I’ll start with the LHS boys. For coach Chris Davis’ squad, I’d like to see a second consistent scoring threat emerge. So far this season, the Lions have seen a handful of players step up at different times. Junior guard Dorian Green has been the most steady scorer on the team, but in order to maximize Green’s abilities as a scorer and a creator, a right-hand man must emerge.

The options are endless. My money’s on 6-foot-7 center John Schneider. He has the size and the skills. But he also has the toughest challenge, considering opposing defenses likely will key on him all season.

For the Lawrence High girls, I resolve them to remain poised. These girls are good. They have big-time players all the way down the bench and are deep and talented enough to make a serious run at a state title and an undefeated season. The road won’t be easy considering everyone will be gunning for them, but keeping their poise would go a long way toward helping them reach their goal.

The wide-open style of basketball the Lions play can create chaos for both teams. And most of coach Kristin Mallory’s crew is made up of intense competitors. Remaining cool, calm and collected like so many of them are – on the court, in practice and in transition – will enable this team to go as far as it wants to go.

For the Free State boys, my resolution is simple: Keep feeding Kris Wilson whatever it is he has been eating since the season began. After a rough first couple of games, Wilson has been phenomenal for the Firebirds, scoring at will and opening up scoring opportunities for so many others.

The senior guard has been the catalyst for the Firebirds’ impressive 5-1 start. In order for that start to carry over to the remainder of the season, Wilson has to retain his role. Free State needs him to score. And he likes to do it. So there should be no problems there. As long as he does so while keeping in mind the fact that his passing and leadership are equally important to this team.

Finally, for the Free State girls, my resolution is patience. Patience with the big picture, patience during games and patience while this talented group meshes together and becomes a true team.

The Free State girls have taken their lumps early on, but they’ve also shown flashes of what they’re capable of doing.

More practice time, more game action and a better understanding of each player’s role will give the Firebirds a realistic shot at making another postseason run.

Happy New Year.