The boys varsity basketball team is off to a strong start with a record of 3-0 on the road. The team had their first game on Saturday, Dec. 1, against Westminster and won 67-55. The game was very close and senior Co-captain guard Sean James contributed greatly, putting 22 points up on the scoreboard. Sophomore forward Carter Meshanic had 18 rebounds, assisting in a strong team effort to beat their Farmington Valley rivals. Junior forward Jackson Wolff had 16 points and junior guard Jordon Walker was able to gain attention in the middle, drawing three crucial fouls. In addition, sophomore forward Hunter Meshanic and junior guard Calvin Schumacher were vital in the defensive effort. The two held Westminster’s two best players to a combined 20 points which helped to seal the game.
The Wyverns had two players making their KO debut. “We had two new guys in the starting lineup, sophomores Hunter and Carter Meshanic,” Head Coach Brad Seaman said. “They blended with the other players very well, and were able to use our defensive strategy which was to hold Westminster’s two best players to under 35 points,” he added. This year the team benefits from their strong chemistry on the court. “We all know that on any given night, anyone of us could have a great game and we have learned to move the ball very well,” senior Co-captain guard Nicholas Bray said. “On defense, we are communicating very well and we all seem to be in sync.”
The team is getting prepared for their tournament before winter break. “Right now, our main focus is to get ready for the KIT’s and trying to defend it,” Coach Seaman said. The Wyverns also had a strong 68-53 win against Avon Old Farms on Wednesday, Dec. 5, led by Bray and James. Bray took control of the game, scoring 33 points, followed by James scoring 22 points.
On Saturday, Dec. 8, the Wyverns traveled to Pingree School where they were able to come out with a dominant 73-50 victory. James said that Mechanic had a really good game and played well on both sides of the ball. “We were able to get out and run the fast break well and put a lot of pressure on the defense, which tired them out,” James said. “Coach devised up a good game plan and we were able to follow through with it.”
The whole team is looking forward to the KIT’s. “I feel like those are the most fun games of the year because it is one of the few times when parents, alumni and our student body all come out to support, so I know that is a really fun time for our team,” Bray said. The boys varsity basketball team will play the Kent School team during the first round of the KITs on Friday, Dec. 14, at 7:00 p.m. in the Hewett Gym following the girls varsity game which is at 5:30 pm.
