Boys Basketball Falls to Mt. Vernon, 75-50

Coming off a tough loss to rival White Plains, Scarsdale hoped to continue its otherwise strong season with an upset against perennial powerhouse Mt. Vernon this past Thursday. Though its program is not as strong as in past years, the back-to-back state federation champion Knights came in with a 12-1 record and were ranked 2nd in the state. Additionally, the team was hoping to earn its legendary coach, Bob Cimmino, his 400th win.

The Raiders, however, were playing with confidence that had not been present in the past few years. Having already won more games (12) this season than in the past two combined, the Scarsdale team seemed capable of beating Mt. Vernon for the first time in Coach Jon Feld's tenure as coach.

For much of the first quarter, Scarsdale seemed to have a chance at ending the streak. The some 200 fans in attendance became increasingly excited as senior Jack Hewitt scored Scarsdale's first two baskets and seniors Tyler Nathan and Jonathan Cohen each tacked on a three-pointer. But in what would set the tone for the rest of the game, Mt. Vernon quickly responded to each Scarsdale score with a graceful, efficient offensive possession.

With a few minutes to play in the 1st quarter, Mt. Vernon was leading by only a slim margin, 13-12. The tight score did not last long as the Knights began a 13-point run that continued into the 2nd quarter. The Raiders were slow to respond, making offensive errors and not scoring again until the final minutes of of the half.

Although the home team never threatened again to tie the score, they proved resilient in the face of a strong opponent. Hewitt continued to make impressive plays all over the court, eventually notching 23 points. In the 3rd quarter, Nathan hit two three-pointers in a row from the same spot, exciting the large crowd still in attendance. Together, he and Cohen made seven-three pointers. The team also benefitted from strong play by Senior point guard Alex Squadron, whose quick passes and impressive ball-handling managed to avoid too many offensive turnovers.

The Raiders offense, however, could not match Mt. Vernon's. Spectators were silenced after Scarsdale scores by the speed and precision of the Knights. "Wows" could be heard in the stands as Senior Josh Doughty nailed three-pointer after three-pointer early in the game, and as a Mt. Vernon player on a breakaway lept up above the rim before gently placing the ball in the basket. It was evident to everyone in attendance how Mt. Vernon had won the past two state championships.

Though Scarsdale will not beat Mt. Vernon this year, the team has an opportunity to end its two-game skid Monday against Eastchester on Senior Night.

This article was contributed by Brian Solender, a senior at Scarsdale High School, and a former reporter, assistant editor and sports editor for the Maroon.