Boys basketball comes back second half, defeats Eureka 58-46
March 3, 2023
Despite their slow start, the Falcons defeated the Eureka Wildcats 58-49, continuing their winning streak on Feb. 15th at home.
Junior Quincy Thomas said this victory means more than just another season game win.
“This win meant a lot to me because that win was our 17th win of the season, meaning that if we win against Seckman on Wednesday we could tie the school record for wins in a season,” Thomas said.
Despite scoring seven three-point shots in the first half, the Falcons still fell behind Eureka. The team let up a few shots, but made a comeback in the second half. Senior Sam Laaker said even with the beginning slow start, the key to their success was their renewed effort in the second half.
“We were able to respond really well in the second half with better defense and more aggressive offense which all started from just effort. Giving effort is all you can ask of each other and we were able to come back as a team and take the win.” Laaker said.
Laaker said defensive players picked it up in the second half and allowed for better offense, getting the Falcons to take the lead.
I think we played pretty good defense coming into the second half which was the game changer. Once we started putting stops together it helped us get hot on offense and take a lead in the third quarter.
— Senior Sam Laaker
Coach Samuel Haug said he looked to players Laaker and freshman Oliver Puljic for offense assistance.
“On offense, we looked to our post players, [Laaker and Puljic] more. Both are good scorers and willing passers. By giving them the ball more, it collapsed the defense and allowed our guards easier looks at the basket and wider driving lanes,” Haug said.
Because of the intense rivalry with the Wildcats, Haug said this win means a lot to the team and their season.
“Beating a rival like Eureka is always an important win for our program, we had not beat them since 2019. For our seniors, that was the first (and only time) they had beaten Eureka in their four years of high school basketball,” Haug said.
The Falcons have won seven out of the eight past games they have played and are pushing to finish off the season with more.As the team prepares for districts, Haug said the game brought them the drive that they need to end the regular season.
“That momentum is helping us get ready for districts and hopefully a couple of more wins to send our seniors out with,” Haug said.
With the games highs and lows, Laaker said it was a prevail for the Falcons and a win that was fought for.
“ It was an all out battle from start to finish and a well deserved win,” Laaker said.
