By Jeff Kiesling
Community Contributor
Dover Sherborn High School's Boys’ Varsity Basketball team hosted Norton High School's Lancers last Tuesday to conclude their league schedule, securing a 53-48 victory. Norton sought a win for postseason qualification, while the Raiders aimed to optimize their tournament seeding. Following the win, the boys clinched the top position in the Tri Valley League (small), comprised of six teams: Bellingham, Dedham, Dover-Sherborn, Medway, Millis, and Norton.
Theo Allen, establishing himself as a scoring threat, initiated scoring for DS with a baseline jumper, followed by consecutive baskets from Mason Melchionda. Norton's full-court defense disrupted the Raider's offensive rhythm, leading the Lancers to a 16-11 lead after the first quarter. Gavin Lynch's three-pointer opened the second quarter, with Melchionda continuing to lead the offense, scoring a reverse layup and a deep three to give DS its first lead midway through the quarter, maintaining it at halftime (25-20).
In the second half, DS matched Norton's full-court defense, forcing turnovers. Strong interior defense prevented Norton from utilizing their big center, limiting their scoring opportunities. DS led 44-36 by the end of the third period and maintained their advantage through the remainder of the game. Overall, DS displayed efficient ball movement and offensive patience, while their defense exhibited agility and dominance on the boards, particularly against Norton's big center. Melchionda led all scorers with 25 points, supported by Jono Windle's 11, securing the win for DS.
The Boys concluded their season with a non-league road loss against the athletic Cardinal Spellman High School, finishing with an overall record of 12-8. They now await the announcement of the postseason tournament brackets on February 23 to determine their first-round opponent.
