One aspect that hasn't been overlooked at Box Elder, Montana, is basketball, with the high school producing some standout athletes from Neil Rosett Sr. to Brandon the Boy to Jerrod Fourcolors.
Add the newest star to this equation, Tracen Jilot. In his three years leading the Bears basketball program, and spending endless hours since day one growing up in his elder box, the 6-foot point guard has garnered attention for his play. I did. His court vision is well above average and he can make the right play in the moment. Although unselfish, his athleticism allows him to blow past defenders and rock the rim with emphatic jams at any time, building on his 30-plus points per game performance last season. Selflessly, he fits into the identity of a “Bear Trap” backcourt defense that allows opponents to cross the line while keeping possession of the ball.
Gillott said in an interview with New Media Broadcasters after his team completed a perfect season en route to the state Class “C” championship that he credits his contributions to the team for the 2023-24 season. He said he was very honored to be able to go up there.
“It means a lot, especially to the community,” Girotto said. “Where we come from and grew up it's all about basketball, and especially growing up playing basketball with my teammates. We've just been playing for a long time.”
“It means the world and it's something I've been working on every day for years and years and years,” Gillot continued. “I really can't express it in words. (I'm really happy.)
Box Elder boys basketball coach Jeremy McDonald has seen Gillott grow and see the legacy he has built over his more than 10 years at the helm. Being able to coach this kind of talent not only gave McDonald the foundation to perform at the highest level, but also gave Gillot the ability to grow and gain exposure, but this would not have come so easily if the Bears hadn't accomplished it. State Champion Status.
“Treasen has a great support system with his family and people in the community,” McDonald said. “He had a lot of opportunities growing up, competing in different tournaments and gaining exposure and experience in the community.”
“He's a great kid, represents our school well and does a great job representing our community,” McDonald continued. “We're lucky he has one more year as a Bear.”
Whether it's on the AAU circuit in selective basketball, high school play, or tournaments in between, Gillott's attention is growing not only in basketball, but also in football in the fall, and now in track and field. That's all. He will be a contender in the high jump at the MHSA state championships later this week.
Girotto's latest chance to shine will come Memorial Day weekend at the Montana Elite Invitational, a tournament that brings together the Treasure State's most accomplished basketball players. Girotto will be competing for the second time after winning his first men's championship. MEI founder Josh Huestis has observed Girotto's drive and drive up close over the past two years and said his presence there allows him to bring star power to any environment he's put into.
“What do I have to say about tracing?” Huestis said. “This kid is obviously one of the best players in the entire state, and he was the best scorer in the entire state last season.”
“He's just a great all-around player, a high flyer, an interesting player and can fill up the stat sheet,” Westis continued. “It's no surprise that he gets it (at the Montana Elite Invitational) because, plain and simple, he's one of the best players out there.”
Gillott and McDonald will both perform at the Montana Elite Invitational in Great Falls this weekend. Gillot will represent Team Red, while McDonald will coach Team Gray.