Boys’ Ball Comes Up Short Versus BB&N

Last Friday, Exeter basketball faced off against the prep school powerhouse New Hampton School in an intense, albeit low-scoring game. Unfortunately, the New Hampton Huskies pulled out on top: 47-34. Despite an unassuming 10-5 record, New Hampton was a very skilled team.

“We were expecting a tough game because New Hampton is extremely talented,” upper James Foye said. “They had guys committed to schools like Boston College and Syracuse, so we knew coming in that we had a big challenge ahead of us.”

In addition to Tyler Lydon, the Syracuse commit, New Hampton also had a height advantage against Exeter with two 6’ 6” players , three 6’ 8” players and one 6’ 9” player. In spite of the Huskies’ impressive roster, Big Red maintained an optimistic mindset.

“We looked to go out and play as hard as we could, making sure we gave our best effort rather than worrying about what New Hampton was going to do,” upper Perry DeLorenzo said.

Throughout the game, New Hampton used their height and athleticism to dominate the boards. In response, Exeter’s defense had to compact in the paint, leaving more room for their excellent three point shooters.

“Our defensive effort was much improved over some of our previous games, although we still struggled at times staying in front of their quick guards and protecting the rim,” DeLorenzo said.

On the offensive side, Big Red created many good opportunities, but their shots just refused to fall. “Our offense just wasn’t clicking like we wanted it to,” Foye said.

“We just need to be tough—simple as that. We have to go out there and want it every play. It’s about Heart, something the coach can’t teach.”

Upper JT Thompson saw Exeter’s performance as exemplary of a more fundamental issue. “We just need to be tough—simple as that. We have to go out there and want it every play. It’s about Heart, something the coach can’t teach,” Thompson said.

Unfortunately, the loss to the Huskies puts Exeter on a three-game losing streak, after tough matches against Choate and BB&N last week. It is obvious to many players that the team has a lot of improvements to make.

“We’re still nowhere near where we need to be,” DeLorenzo said. “Even though we stepped up defensively, shots didn’t fall on offense and we struggled to score. Going forward, we have to make sure we bring a strong effort both offensively and defensively every game in order to get where we want to be.”

Foye agreed, admitting that, “Even though we didn’t play that well offensively, we were still in the game. I think that showed us that we can play with any team out there if we play good defense.”

Thompson also expressed a confident attitude for the remainder of the season. “We are optimistic, and we are working hard every day. Our goal is a championship,” Thompson said.

Big Red will take on the Saint Paul’s Pelicans in an away game this Friday at 5 p.m.