The Deerfield JV Boys Basketball team faced a tough challenge at Loomis on a rainy Wednesday, falling 40-56 in a game that showcased both resilience and moments of brilliance. Loomis set the tone early, jumping out to a commanding 24-4 lead with an aggressive 1-2-2 half-court trap. Despite the slow start, Deerfield fought back with determination.
Jay Rich ’27 sparked the offense with two early assists, setting up a three-pointer from Will Machnik ’26 and a layup by Sam Peake ’28 to cut the deficit to 11-28 late in the first half.
In the second half, Mac Hynds ’26 made two strong baseline drives, delivering beautiful bounce-pass assists to Hawk Okpokwasili ’25 for quick buckets. Marty Rodriguez Pastor ’28 caught fire with nine consecutive points, draining two high-arcing three-pointers from the top of the key and finishing an and-one fast break on thee assist from Peake, trimming the Loomis lead to 27-51.
Rich continued to facilitate, connecting with Hynds on a precise baseline bounce pass for a smooth layup. Carter Schloat ’28 added an electrifying moment in the final minutes, grabbing a rebound and going coast-to-coast to sink an elbow jumper, bringing the final score to 40-56.
Machnik finished with 10 points, Rodriguez Pastor scored 9, and Schloat and Okpokwasili chipped in 6 a piece.
Despite the loss, the Doors showed flashes of teamwork and individual skill, setting the stage for continued growth this season.