Boys’ basketball had a commanding 73-56 victory against Braintree Tuesday, Jan. 13, behind strong offensive showings from senior Mathaios Stamm, a captain alongside senior Luke Washek, and junior forward Bryson Mercedes.
The game began with an impressive display of scoring from North, as Stamm racked up 10 points in the first quarter, and Mercedes added two three-pointers on top.
The first half came to a close at 37-23 in favor of the Tigers with a defense that remained solid, keeping the Wamps from going on a run and cutting into the lead.
Stamm said, “It’s one of our best wins so far this season, everyone is starting to play a little bit better. We’re getting used to each other and hitting our stride.”
As the second half opened up, the Tigers came out maintaining their strong opening half, continuing to attack the paint as junior forward Julian Zakak scored eight quick points to expand the lead.
Head coach John MacNamara attributed the strong showing to the overall team contributions. “I’m pleased that so many guys are contributing in a positive way. Down the line, we are going to need different guys to step up and make plays, and it’s been really nice to see guys step up in big moments, make plays, and be fearless.”
In the early parts of the fourth quarter, Braintree pulled back within single digits. However, the Wamps’ advances weren’t enough to shake the Tigers. Together, Mercedes and Stamm earned a combined 18 points, a figure larger than Braintree’s total team output in the entire quarter.
Although the Tigers earned a triumphant win, junior Jake Lyons emphasized the importance of keeping the Tigers’ feet on the gas. “We have finally gained some momentum by winning against Needham, but our goal at the beginning of the season wasn’t to win a few games,” he said. “We wanted to be a consistently strong team and get back to where we were during the playoffs last season.”
Boys’ basketball, 7-4, fell 52-62 against the Needham Rockets away Friday, Jan 16. According to MacNamara, the Tigers are looking to complete the two-game season sweep and continue the team’s strong momentous push for a 8-4 record when they face Walpole at home, Friday, Jan. 23.
