In the opening game of the season, the Wolves varsity boys’ basketball team defeated Hersey at home in a convincing 65-51 victory–the first game of the 39th Billy D. Schnurr Tournament.

The game started out quickly for the Wolves, who won the tip and scored a quick layup. However, the tide soon turned, as Hersey repeatedly scored easy buckets and took the lead, despite the Wolves’ excellent rebounding, especially on the offensive end. At the end of the first quarter, the score was 18-13 Hersey.

After that, things quickly changed for the Wolves.

Senior Joey Younan, who had an excellent night, scored five straight to tie the game up, and went on to hit a three for the go-ahead with five minutes left in the half. The score was 31-28 Wolves at the half. The Wolves’ defense improved greatly, and Hersey had some difficulty scoring.

Younan was strong again in the second half, and the Wolves really began to pull away. The Wolves’ defense led to several steals, forced turnovers, and second-chance points. Late in the game, junior Ahmad Gibson also heated up, and senior David McCoy consistently played well throughout the game.

In the end, the Wolves sealed the deal with a 65-51, Wolves final score.

Head coach Bob Williams said once the team focused, they were able to turn the tide of the game.

“Our energy was great, but our defensive execution was inconsistent,” he said. “We had to get our focus on doing what we practiced.”