BREAKING: The Hermon Hawks have just solidified their grip on first place in Class B North with a decisive 60-47 victory over the high-flying Cony Rams on January 30, 2024. This unexpected outcome is sending shockwaves through the competitive standings as Hermon improves to 8-1.
Entering the game, Cony boasted an impressive scoring average of over 70 points per game and had not dipped below 65 points in any contest this season. However, Hermon’s formidable defense and a meticulously controlled pace turned the tables, leaving fans and analysts alike scrambling to reassess the Class B North dynamics.
The match began tightly contested, ending the first quarter tied at 10-10. By halftime, Hermon held a narrow lead at 21-18, thanks to standout performances from players like guard Carter Wiggin, who led all scorers with 23 points, and Mason Kinney, contributing 12 points.
“I’m really proud of my kids and the toughness they played with tonight,” said Hermon coach Mark Reed. “We just worked hard on the defensive end and made it hard for them.”
Reed credited his team’s focus and strategy, emphasizing the importance of controlling the tempo against a team known for its fast-paced play. “We had to play the way we wanted to play, not get rushed,” he added.
On the other hand, Cony’s head coach Isaiah Brathwaite acknowledged Hermon’s effective game plan. “They sucked the air out of the ball on offense,” he remarked, highlighting how the Hawks took their time with each possession, often stretching to two minutes per play.
Despite the loss, Brathwaite remains optimistic about his 7-2 Rams. “This will be a learning experience for us,” he said. Freshman Carter Brathwaite led the Rams with 16 points, but the team now faces the challenge of recalibrating as they aim to reclaim their place in the standings.
The game saw momentum shifts, particularly in the third quarter, where Hermon extended their lead to 39-31 by quarter’s end. Wiggin’s crucial plays, including an and-1 that propelled the Hawks ahead, proved pivotal. With the final moments of the game in sight, Hermon stretched their lead to a comfortable 15 points.
“All the credit to the kids. I didn’t do anything,” Reed humbly stated after the game. “I just got to have a really good seat and watch it all.”
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the Hawks as they look to maintain their lead and on the Rams as they regroup for their upcoming matches. Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving sports story!
