By Avonlea Cummings
Hometown Weekly Sports Reporter
Medfield's gymnasium was abuzz last Tuesday evening as the Medfield Big Blue basketball team faced off against the Hopkinton Hillers in a heated Tri-Valley League (TVL) Large competition. The Big Blue secured their second league win of the season, clinching victory with a final score of 64-62.
As the teams initiated the game with the tip-off, the first period began with an electric performance by Big Blue on their home court, drawing energy from the enthusiastic crowd. Executing swift passes across the court, the boys rapidly accumulated points. Medfield demonstrated resilience against Hopkinton's scoring attempts, maintaining a robust defensive stance. However, the Hillers remained in close pursuit, seeking opportunities to gain an advantage. At halftime, Medfield held a narrow lead of 39-35.
Following halftime, Big Blue, having strategized to maintain their lead, dominated the court once more in the second half of the competition. Displaying resilience and determination, Medfield relentlessly attacked the Hillers' net. Hopkinton mounted a comeback, persistently challenging Medfield's potent offensive capabilities. Nonetheless, Medfield concluded the night with a 64-62 victory, preserving their narrow lead.
Senior captain Luke Lisciandra emerged as the leading scorer for the evening, contributing 16 points. Following closely behind, sophomore Peter Kumar amassed 14 points for Big Blue, while junior captain Rowan Tracey added 11 points to Medfield's tally.
Reflecting on the team's performance, head coach Herb Grace expressed satisfaction and pride in the Big Blue team's achievements throughout the match.
“We knew that they played very hard and that they pressed a lot, so we had been working a lot on our press break. We still turned it over, but that’s going to happen. We showed some toughness, we showed some resiliency, and some guys had big shots for us, I’m proud of the guys. It’s still early in the season, but this is something to build on and it should be a good confidence boost. Luke Lisciandra, one of our senior captains, had a couple of big dunks for us, but I am proud of everybody tonight. They are just a great group, they like each other and practice well together with good chemistry too,” said Grace.
