After the winter break, the boys varsity basketball team returned to action in 2023 with back-to-back victories over visiting Avon (67-65) and on the road at Williston (52-51).
At home against Avon on Friday, January 6, the Big Green earned an exciting, come-from-behind, 67-65 win over a talented Avon Old Farms team. The Big Green, had a strong start to the game, but was unable to maintain that same strong offensive and defensive intensity for the remainder of the half.
At halftime, the Big Green entered the locker room down by 12 points. Coming out of halftime, DA had another strong offensive start. Propelled by their defensive intensity, the Big Green’s execution stayed on point, which allowed the lead to be cut down tremendously in a short amount of time.
Chandler Dicks ’23 was instrumental on both ends of the floor hitting shots, attacking the basket, but also getting key defensive stops. Natrel Allen ’23 hit a jumper from the top of the key with about 20 seconds remaining on the clock to give DA a 2-point lead. The ensuing defensive possession, DA was able to get a big stop which sealed the victory.
The Big Green followed up Friday night’s exciting win with another last-second, down-to-the-wire 52-51 road victory over a very talented and well-coached Williston Northampton team.
Saturday’s game proved to be a defensive battle for both teams.
Looking to find their offensive rhythm, the Big Green trailed the Wildcats by six points at the half.
The second half proved to be a back-and-forth contest. Every time that Williston stretched the lead to 6-8 points, the Doors responded and kept the score within a single-possession game.
Down by just 3 points, Natrel Allen ’23 hit another clutch shot, a deep three-pointer with ten seconds to go, to tie the ball game. Williston immediately came down the floor looking to score, but Allen came up clutch yet again with a big steal and then immediately got fouled.
Already in the 1-and-1 bonus, Allen hit the first free throw to give DA a 1-point lead. He missed the following free throw and Williston immediately called a time out.
Williston then tried to throw a full court pass which Allen stole again, giving DA the 52-51 victory.
Chandler Dicks ’23 had another strong game on both ends of the floor and CJ Williams ’24 proved to have a big interior presence, both offensively and defensively.
With the New Year victories, the Big Green improve their early season victory to 5-3.
The squad returns to action this Wednesday when they host Nobles. Tip off is set for 5:00pm. Tune in to watch on the livestream.