December 25, 2008
Happy Holidays
Have a safe and Happy Holidays on behalf of myself and the entire Wildcat Nation. Remember to be safe and enjoy the time with your family and friends. May all your holiday wishes be granted and I look to see you all back here in two weeks time...
December 23, 2008
Wharton 59, Durant 47
Wharton used a dominating third quarter and a strong second half to cruise to a win and the 2nd Annual 2008 Holiday Classic championship. The Wildcats trailed 21-26 at half but used the grit and creativity of Xavier Owens to outscore the Cougars 12-4 in the third and 38-21 in the second half.
Owens made it look easy, blowing past every defender the Cougars tried to match him up with. Owens, however, wouldn't have been half as explosive without the distribution skills of the entire Wildcat offense. Whether it was Zachery Litton lobbing the pass or Damian Dixon finding X with a sharp dime, the Wharton offense was close to impossible to stop when the 3rd quarter light illuminated on the scoreboard.
Sophomore AJ Astroth struggled again early but saw his frustrations vanish with a 5 point third quarter and helped spark the tenacious run in the third.
Zachery Litton hit a three point shot with 5:51 left in the fourth which gave Wharton there biggest lead of the contest at the time. Xavier Owens and Damian Dixon did the rest as Wharton out worked and out hustled the Cougars on the way to the championship.
After experiencing a little deja-vu, both Durant and Wharton have met a handful of times in this calendar year, the Wildcats and Cougars were set to do battle in the finals of the 2008 Holiday Classic hosted by the Alonso Ravens Basketball program. Durant and Wharton played one another in many summer tournaments and met twice in summer league play. But none meant more than what looked to be the final battle of 2008 for both squads.
Xavier Owens scored 17 points, two of which came off a thunderous dunk on a transition hustle play that was created by the lead pass from Astroth off the defensive board. Owens wasn't only impressive on the offensive end but showed his leaping ability on the other side with a handful of monster rebounds.
Damian Dixon was named to the All-Tournament Team and Xavier Owens took home tournament MVP.
This win is not just another W in the win column. Nor is it just another trophy to add the the already full case in the Wharton office building. This win officially brings the Wildcats back to relevance as well as kicks off the Dave Bastian era. With his first piece of hardware, many more seem to be on the horizon and if any of you Wharton Basketball supporters are like this one, you'll be waiting wide-eyed and on the edge of your seat.
The loss snaps a 7-game win streak for the Durant Cougars and they fall to 9-2. Wharton improves to 7-4 (2-3) and are now riding a three game winning streak with their sights set on arch rival Freedom High School. Wharton will be resting for the remainder of the winter break and look to be primed for a district title run when school resumes for the winter semester.
Owens made it look easy, blowing past every defender the Cougars tried to match him up with. Owens, however, wouldn't have been half as explosive without the distribution skills of the entire Wildcat offense. Whether it was Zachery Litton lobbing the pass or Damian Dixon finding X with a sharp dime, the Wharton offense was close to impossible to stop when the 3rd quarter light illuminated on the scoreboard.
Sophomore AJ Astroth struggled again early but saw his frustrations vanish with a 5 point third quarter and helped spark the tenacious run in the third.
Zachery Litton hit a three point shot with 5:51 left in the fourth which gave Wharton there biggest lead of the contest at the time. Xavier Owens and Damian Dixon did the rest as Wharton out worked and out hustled the Cougars on the way to the championship.
After experiencing a little deja-vu, both Durant and Wharton have met a handful of times in this calendar year, the Wildcats and Cougars were set to do battle in the finals of the 2008 Holiday Classic hosted by the Alonso Ravens Basketball program. Durant and Wharton played one another in many summer tournaments and met twice in summer league play. But none meant more than what looked to be the final battle of 2008 for both squads.
Xavier Owens scored 17 points, two of which came off a thunderous dunk on a transition hustle play that was created by the lead pass from Astroth off the defensive board. Owens wasn't only impressive on the offensive end but showed his leaping ability on the other side with a handful of monster rebounds.
Damian Dixon was named to the All-Tournament Team and Xavier Owens took home tournament MVP.
This win is not just another W in the win column. Nor is it just another trophy to add the the already full case in the Wharton office building. This win officially brings the Wildcats back to relevance as well as kicks off the Dave Bastian era. With his first piece of hardware, many more seem to be on the horizon and if any of you Wharton Basketball supporters are like this one, you'll be waiting wide-eyed and on the edge of your seat.
The loss snaps a 7-game win streak for the Durant Cougars and they fall to 9-2. Wharton improves to 7-4 (2-3) and are now riding a three game winning streak with their sights set on arch rival Freedom High School. Wharton will be resting for the remainder of the winter break and look to be primed for a district title run when school resumes for the winter semester.
December 22, 2008
Wharton 56, St. Francis 51
Your Wharton Wildcats faced the St. Francis Wolves earlier today in the first of two semifinal games in the 2008 Alonso High School Holiday Classic. Wharton defeated the 1A state power 56-51 and outlasted the rain brought down by the perimeter shooting of St. Francis led by junior Billy Donovan, son of the University of Florida's Head Coach.
Wharton trailed 17-8 at the end of the first quarter after the Wolves set the tone early with a powerful performance from beyond the arch. Led by sophomore Joseph Adel and Billy Donovan, the Wolves seemed confident in routing the .500 Wildcats early in the contest. Jeremy Adel, brother of Joseph, brought tough defense to the table when he wasn't throwing a temper-tantrum after a questionable call.
Down 23-14, the Wildcats started putting the pedal to the metal and finished off the first half on a 8-0 run capped off by a long lob from senior Zach Litton to sophomore Xavier Owens as the clock expired. Prior to the final bucket of the quarter, the Wildcats had an abundance of opportunities to add to their run but couldn't capitalize on their 4 consecutive offensive rebounds on just one possession Junior Damian Dixon helped the charge with a few clutch three point shots to counteract the Wolves perimeter game and also had a few finesse passes that led to easy Wildcat buckets. Sophomore AJ Astroth struggled early, missing a number of layups and senior Mike Robinson put the statement on a strong defensive performance with a monster block in the concluding moments of the second quarter.
On the very first possession in the third quarter, senior Khiry White gave Wharton their first lead of the game on a baseline jumper of the Damian Dixon feed. After the Wildcats took their first lead the Wolves looked determined to take it back. The next couple of possessions for both squads came with several lead changes. Both AJ Astroth and Damian Dixon provided the three point show for the Wildcats and Billy Donovan and senior Philip Spottswood provided the counterstrike for the Wolves.
After both teams managed to shoot all the lights out in the gym, freshman Kharid Westbrooks' desperation at the buzzer failed to hit the mark and the Wildcats trailed by one at the end of the third quarter, 40-39.
The St. Francis Wolves started the 4th quarter on a tear. Spottswood kicked it off with a three point play and Donovan took a charge on the defensive side of the ball. A few possessions later, Khiry White was called for the blocking foul, despite being set for a solid 5 seconds prior to the foul, and Donovan hit both free throws to give the Wolves a 44-41 advantage with 6 minutes left to play.
AJ Astroth and Damian Dixon both found their strokes just in time and led both helped the Wildcats cling to a 47-44 lead with just under five minutes left on the clock.
St. Francis refused to go away and was fouled on a three point shot attempt and Spottswood managed just to hit two of the three allotted free throws but ultimately pulled the Wolves within 1 with 2:44 left in the fourth. The next possession, Dixon hit a three pointer and gave the Wildcats a four point advantage with just over two minutes left to play.
Spottswood and the Wolves refused to die, pulling from 30 feet just moments later to bring St. Francis back within 1. Dixon had the chance to put the 'Cats up with two free throws on a 1 and 1 opportunity but failed to hit the first when Owens came up big on a put back and gave the Wildcats a three point led with under a minute left. The Wildcats forced an ill advised shot by the Wolves and it was all but over when the intentional foul was committed on Khiry White and his two free throws gave the 'Cats the 5 point win.
St. Francis was ranked 6th in the state of Florida in the 1A classification prior to tonight's game.
The Wildcats 6-4 (2-3) advance to the finals to face the winner of Durant/Palm Harbour at 5:30pm tomorrow night at Alonso High School.
Wharton trailed 17-8 at the end of the first quarter after the Wolves set the tone early with a powerful performance from beyond the arch. Led by sophomore Joseph Adel and Billy Donovan, the Wolves seemed confident in routing the .500 Wildcats early in the contest. Jeremy Adel, brother of Joseph, brought tough defense to the table when he wasn't throwing a temper-tantrum after a questionable call.
Down 23-14, the Wildcats started putting the pedal to the metal and finished off the first half on a 8-0 run capped off by a long lob from senior Zach Litton to sophomore Xavier Owens as the clock expired. Prior to the final bucket of the quarter, the Wildcats had an abundance of opportunities to add to their run but couldn't capitalize on their 4 consecutive offensive rebounds on just one possession Junior Damian Dixon helped the charge with a few clutch three point shots to counteract the Wolves perimeter game and also had a few finesse passes that led to easy Wildcat buckets. Sophomore AJ Astroth struggled early, missing a number of layups and senior Mike Robinson put the statement on a strong defensive performance with a monster block in the concluding moments of the second quarter.
On the very first possession in the third quarter, senior Khiry White gave Wharton their first lead of the game on a baseline jumper of the Damian Dixon feed. After the Wildcats took their first lead the Wolves looked determined to take it back. The next couple of possessions for both squads came with several lead changes. Both AJ Astroth and Damian Dixon provided the three point show for the Wildcats and Billy Donovan and senior Philip Spottswood provided the counterstrike for the Wolves.
After both teams managed to shoot all the lights out in the gym, freshman Kharid Westbrooks' desperation at the buzzer failed to hit the mark and the Wildcats trailed by one at the end of the third quarter, 40-39.
The St. Francis Wolves started the 4th quarter on a tear. Spottswood kicked it off with a three point play and Donovan took a charge on the defensive side of the ball. A few possessions later, Khiry White was called for the blocking foul, despite being set for a solid 5 seconds prior to the foul, and Donovan hit both free throws to give the Wolves a 44-41 advantage with 6 minutes left to play.
AJ Astroth and Damian Dixon both found their strokes just in time and led both helped the Wildcats cling to a 47-44 lead with just under five minutes left on the clock.
St. Francis refused to go away and was fouled on a three point shot attempt and Spottswood managed just to hit two of the three allotted free throws but ultimately pulled the Wolves within 1 with 2:44 left in the fourth. The next possession, Dixon hit a three pointer and gave the Wildcats a four point advantage with just over two minutes left to play.
Spottswood and the Wolves refused to die, pulling from 30 feet just moments later to bring St. Francis back within 1. Dixon had the chance to put the 'Cats up with two free throws on a 1 and 1 opportunity but failed to hit the first when Owens came up big on a put back and gave the Wildcats a three point led with under a minute left. The Wildcats forced an ill advised shot by the Wolves and it was all but over when the intentional foul was committed on Khiry White and his two free throws gave the 'Cats the 5 point win.
St. Francis was ranked 6th in the state of Florida in the 1A classification prior to tonight's game.
The Wildcats 6-4 (2-3) advance to the finals to face the winner of Durant/Palm Harbour at 5:30pm tomorrow night at Alonso High School.
December 20, 2008
Wharton 65, Leto 53
After an entire week off the Wildcats were back in action after an overtime loss to Newsome. Fueled by the offensive showing of senior Zachery Litton and junior Damian Dixon, Wharton notches there 5 victory of the season in opening round of the Alonso Holiday Classic.
After 8 consecutive possessions without a score, Wharton seemed a bit rusty early but Litton and Xavier Owens helped jump start the 'Cats on the way to scoring a season high 65 points. Dixon led all 'Cats scoring with 18 followed by Litton's 14 points, all of which he accumulated by the time the 3rd quarter ended.
Sophomore AJ Astroth struggled all game long, missing all of his free throws in the competition today. Junior Damian Dixon also looked strong today aiding in the scoring effort.
Wharton advances to play the winner of St. Francis/Spoto on Monday, December 22 at 3:30pm. One loss will drop Wharton into the consolation bracket with no hopes of winning the tournament. Last year, in the first annual Holiday Classic, Toarlyn Fitzpatrick and the King Lions defeated the Land'O'Lakes Gators in the championship round.
After 8 consecutive possessions without a score, Wharton seemed a bit rusty early but Litton and Xavier Owens helped jump start the 'Cats on the way to scoring a season high 65 points. Dixon led all 'Cats scoring with 18 followed by Litton's 14 points, all of which he accumulated by the time the 3rd quarter ended.
Sophomore AJ Astroth struggled all game long, missing all of his free throws in the competition today. Junior Damian Dixon also looked strong today aiding in the scoring effort.
Wharton advances to play the winner of St. Francis/Spoto on Monday, December 22 at 3:30pm. One loss will drop Wharton into the consolation bracket with no hopes of winning the tournament. Last year, in the first annual Holiday Classic, Toarlyn Fitzpatrick and the King Lions defeated the Land'O'Lakes Gators in the championship round.
December 18, 2008
BLUE CREW 101
The recent decline of the school spirit and lack of support of the basketball squad has tempted me to write about the 2006-2007 campaign and the birth of the Blue Crew.
Back in my junior year, my family and I had just moved to Tampa from Winter Springs, FL (North Orlando). After every Junior Varsity game I would stay for the Varsity's game and would be amazed by the lack of support that was being given to our boys. Despite playing for a district title the year before, in the 2005-2006 season Wharton found itself in the district championship game yet again against rival Brandon High School. The Wildcats fell to the Eagles in a double-overtime nail bitter that left tears in the eyes of players like Adam Noble, Lenny Simmons, Anthony Gomez, and Shawn Vanzant.
Not only did it cut to the core in each of the player's hearts but it left me with a sick feeling in my stomach, because of how close I had become with the team and organization throughout the year. Wharton opened up with district champion Wesley Chapel at their house for the first round of the playoffs. During that game is when I realized how much a crowd could ulitmately influence the outcome of a competition. You read about the Cameroon Indoor Stadium crowds and the Cameroon Crazies (the student following of the Duke Basketball program), the House of Horrors (UF), the Dawg Pack (Washington), the Crimson Crew (Indiana), the Gold Mine (Purdue), and countless others, It gave me the motivation to create a similar atmosphere. Knowing Wharton was only graduating one player, who at the time was the sixth man, I knew the 2006-2007 season would be a special one. Not only would it be a special team to watch, but I wanted the crowd that followed to be a special crowd to hear.
I went to then Head Coach Tommy Tonelli and asked him what he thought about creating a school student section. He told me he loved the idea and that he would help me get whatever I needed (shirts, logos, etc.). When asked what I was going to call it I had two names in mind. The two I had suggested were the "Blue Crew" and the "Whar Cats." Tonelli told me that a few years back a bunch of seniors that were close with some players on their team started flocking to all the games, calling themselves the Blue Crew. Once I realized that the name had history, we decided to call it the "Blue Crew" and thus one of the rowdiest crowds was born.
The first game of the 2006-2007 season was against district rival Brandon, who also returned a majority of their lineup as well as "managed to acquire" 2 other players from other schools around Hillsborough county, Jeremy Jackson and Evan Ravenel. So the stage was set. Both of the top two teams in the area were set to do battle at Wharton High School to kick off the 2006-2007 season. You couldn't ask for a better birthplace than that.
The initial showing wasn't all that grand in numbers, but where there was a lack of quantity there was an abundance of quality. One of the loudest crowds to date helped rattle the Eagles as the Wildcats cruised to a 64-49 win (leading by 38 points at one time).
2006-2007 Home Game Results:
Wharton 64 Brandon 49
Wharton 69 Freedom 25
Wharton 75 Tampa Bay Tech 38 (Wharton led 31-3 @ end of 1st)
Wharton 81 Newsome 47
Wharton 76 King 47
Wharton 60 Armwood 34
Wharton 78 Bloomingdale 55
Wharton 52 Chamberlain 40
Wharton 72 Freedom 31 (Districts - First Round)
Wharton 66 Armwood 34 (Districts - Second )
Wharton 71 Bloomingdale 42 (Districts - Title Game)
Wharton 77 Wesley Chapel 44 (State Playoffs - 1st Round)
Wharton 73 Winter Haven 60 (State Playoffs - 2nd Round)
Not only did the Blue Crew host a "cheer clinic" at all the home games but took their show on the road all season, most notably against Brandon and Lake Howell.
Brandon hosted our Wildcats a few weeks before the district tournament back in 2007, which was yet another match up between the two top teams in the area and an eventual sneak preview of the 2007 District Championship Game. As noted earlier, Brandon's 6th Man was a following that became feared by all who stepped into their gym.
Prior to tip-off, our JV fell for the first and only time that season to the JV Eagles and the animosity began building for the varsity showdown. Brandon's fans were chanting "OVER-RATED" directed at our Junior Varsity boys who were being dealt their only loss of the season. In there defense the Blue Crew, who had already towered behind the away bench in anticipation of the varsity game, chanted "WAIT 'TIL VARSITY" over and over and the immensity of the sound overpowered that of the Eagle supporters and the main event hadn't even begun yet.
I remember the game like it was last night. Adam Noble, or as he was known by the Blue Crew, "NOBLAY," dropped 15 points in the first half. All of which were from an amazing 5-5 performance from behind the arch, one of which was from NBA range right in the face of Brandon guard, Jeremy Jackson, and another over Evan Ravenel who was forced to contest Noble's shot after Anthony Gomez skipped the ball to the wide open sharpshooter.
Brandon would fight back but the lead was never overtaken and the Wildcats cruised to the 11 point victory and a perfect record in the district. Upon defeated their heated rivals, the boys ran over to the bench after the game and jumped into the arms of the rowdy Blue Crew members who had already began chanting, "WHO'S HOUSE? OUR HOUSE!" Which was directed at the 6th man, who had been silenced early at the immensity of the Blue Crew's presence.
Another example of how dedicated the Blue Crew had become was portrayed in the Regional Championship game against state power Lake Howell, who had 3 D-1 players on their roster (Nick Calathes -UF, Chandler Parsons - UF, Joey Rodriguez -VCU). Ed Morse Cadillac - Tampa, a long time sponsor of the men's basketball program, funded a "spirit bus" which transported over 200 Blue Crew members to Winter Park, FL. Before the gym was even open to the general public the Blue Crew already towered behind the away bench in support of their team.
All throughout the game, the Blue Crew made their presence known by overtaking the voices of the Silver Hawk fans regardless of the situation. Although the Wildcats fell to Lake Howell and the 3 Amigos, 70-59, the game not only marked a milestone for the boys on the court, but cemented the beginning of a legacy of those who followed in the stands.
So let's get back to what it used to be. Regardless of records, opponents, or days of the week, let's bring back the noise that rattled opponents and the spirit that had the school buzzing. Bring your brother, your sister, your girlfriend or boyfriend, and let's give our boys the following they've worked so hard to deserve!
If you have any Blue Crew photos of your own and would like to share them with the rest of the Wildcat Nation, please send them to me, jdl@thebluecrew.net, and I will post them for everyone to share.
Back in my junior year, my family and I had just moved to Tampa from Winter Springs, FL (North Orlando). After every Junior Varsity game I would stay for the Varsity's game and would be amazed by the lack of support that was being given to our boys. Despite playing for a district title the year before, in the 2005-2006 season Wharton found itself in the district championship game yet again against rival Brandon High School. The Wildcats fell to the Eagles in a double-overtime nail bitter that left tears in the eyes of players like Adam Noble, Lenny Simmons, Anthony Gomez, and Shawn Vanzant.
Not only did it cut to the core in each of the player's hearts but it left me with a sick feeling in my stomach, because of how close I had become with the team and organization throughout the year. Wharton opened up with district champion Wesley Chapel at their house for the first round of the playoffs. During that game is when I realized how much a crowd could ulitmately influence the outcome of a competition. You read about the Cameroon Indoor Stadium crowds and the Cameroon Crazies (the student following of the Duke Basketball program), the House of Horrors (UF), the Dawg Pack (Washington), the Crimson Crew (Indiana), the Gold Mine (Purdue), and countless others, It gave me the motivation to create a similar atmosphere. Knowing Wharton was only graduating one player, who at the time was the sixth man, I knew the 2006-2007 season would be a special one. Not only would it be a special team to watch, but I wanted the crowd that followed to be a special crowd to hear.
I went to then Head Coach Tommy Tonelli and asked him what he thought about creating a school student section. He told me he loved the idea and that he would help me get whatever I needed (shirts, logos, etc.). When asked what I was going to call it I had two names in mind. The two I had suggested were the "Blue Crew" and the "Whar Cats." Tonelli told me that a few years back a bunch of seniors that were close with some players on their team started flocking to all the games, calling themselves the Blue Crew. Once I realized that the name had history, we decided to call it the "Blue Crew" and thus one of the rowdiest crowds was born.
The first game of the 2006-2007 season was against district rival Brandon, who also returned a majority of their lineup as well as "managed to acquire" 2 other players from other schools around Hillsborough county, Jeremy Jackson and Evan Ravenel. So the stage was set. Both of the top two teams in the area were set to do battle at Wharton High School to kick off the 2006-2007 season. You couldn't ask for a better birthplace than that.
The initial showing wasn't all that grand in numbers, but where there was a lack of quantity there was an abundance of quality. One of the loudest crowds to date helped rattle the Eagles as the Wildcats cruised to a 64-49 win (leading by 38 points at one time).
2006-2007 Home Game Results:
Wharton 64 Brandon 49
Wharton 69 Freedom 25
Wharton 75 Tampa Bay Tech 38 (Wharton led 31-3 @ end of 1st)
Wharton 81 Newsome 47
Wharton 76 King 47
Wharton 60 Armwood 34
Wharton 78 Bloomingdale 55
Wharton 52 Chamberlain 40
Wharton 72 Freedom 31 (Districts - First Round)
Wharton 66 Armwood 34 (Districts - Second )
Wharton 71 Bloomingdale 42 (Districts - Title Game)
Wharton 77 Wesley Chapel 44 (State Playoffs - 1st Round)
Wharton 73 Winter Haven 60 (State Playoffs - 2nd Round)
Not only did the Blue Crew host a "cheer clinic" at all the home games but took their show on the road all season, most notably against Brandon and Lake Howell.
Brandon hosted our Wildcats a few weeks before the district tournament back in 2007, which was yet another match up between the two top teams in the area and an eventual sneak preview of the 2007 District Championship Game. As noted earlier, Brandon's 6th Man was a following that became feared by all who stepped into their gym.
Prior to tip-off, our JV fell for the first and only time that season to the JV Eagles and the animosity began building for the varsity showdown. Brandon's fans were chanting "OVER-RATED" directed at our Junior Varsity boys who were being dealt their only loss of the season. In there defense the Blue Crew, who had already towered behind the away bench in anticipation of the varsity game, chanted "WAIT 'TIL VARSITY" over and over and the immensity of the sound overpowered that of the Eagle supporters and the main event hadn't even begun yet.
I remember the game like it was last night. Adam Noble, or as he was known by the Blue Crew, "NOBLAY," dropped 15 points in the first half. All of which were from an amazing 5-5 performance from behind the arch, one of which was from NBA range right in the face of Brandon guard, Jeremy Jackson, and another over Evan Ravenel who was forced to contest Noble's shot after Anthony Gomez skipped the ball to the wide open sharpshooter.
Brandon would fight back but the lead was never overtaken and the Wildcats cruised to the 11 point victory and a perfect record in the district. Upon defeated their heated rivals, the boys ran over to the bench after the game and jumped into the arms of the rowdy Blue Crew members who had already began chanting, "WHO'S HOUSE? OUR HOUSE!" Which was directed at the 6th man, who had been silenced early at the immensity of the Blue Crew's presence.
Another example of how dedicated the Blue Crew had become was portrayed in the Regional Championship game against state power Lake Howell, who had 3 D-1 players on their roster (Nick Calathes -UF, Chandler Parsons - UF, Joey Rodriguez -VCU). Ed Morse Cadillac - Tampa, a long time sponsor of the men's basketball program, funded a "spirit bus" which transported over 200 Blue Crew members to Winter Park, FL. Before the gym was even open to the general public the Blue Crew already towered behind the away bench in support of their team.
All throughout the game, the Blue Crew made their presence known by overtaking the voices of the Silver Hawk fans regardless of the situation. Although the Wildcats fell to Lake Howell and the 3 Amigos, 70-59, the game not only marked a milestone for the boys on the court, but cemented the beginning of a legacy of those who followed in the stands.
So let's get back to what it used to be. Regardless of records, opponents, or days of the week, let's bring back the noise that rattled opponents and the spirit that had the school buzzing. Bring your brother, your sister, your girlfriend or boyfriend, and let's give our boys the following they've worked so hard to deserve!
If you have any Blue Crew photos of your own and would like to share them with the rest of the Wildcat Nation, please send them to me, jdl@thebluecrew.net, and I will post them for everyone to share.
December 15, 2008
King In Trouble
The latest news regarding your Wharton Wildcats is about district foe, King High School, who held the top spot in the district. That is before they were penalized for playing with an ineligible player. King was in sole possession of first place but the forfeits cost them 3 district losses. The Lions were 6-0 prior to this announcement and are now sporting a 2-4 record after the punishment. Below is the article, as posted on TBO.com Blog.
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Boys Basketball: King Forfeits Four Games
Boys Basketball: King Forfeits Four Games
The King boys basketball team forfeited its first four games of the season for use of an ineligible player, athletic director Frank Oliver confirmed.
The Lions forfeited wins over Lennard (74-31), Armwood (67-37), Tampa Bay Tech (68-23) and Brandon (65-27). Oliver said he informed the schools of the change last week.
Once undefeated at 6-0, the Lions are now to 2-4.
Coach Sam Lanier reverted all questions to Oliver.
Because Armwood, Tech and Brandon are district opponents, the losses hurt the Lions chances of earning the top seed in the district. Bloomingdale and Newsome each have one district loss.
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Now that the forfeits are official, every district game becomes more important than ever regarding seeding for the district tournament. If the tournament were to start tomorrow Bloomingdale and Newsome would have the top seeds. Newsome would hold the tie-breaker over Bloomingdale due to their defeat of the Bulls earlier in the season. Our Wildcats will return to district play against the rival Freedom High School when school resumes after the holiday break but will compete this coming weekend in the Alonso Holiday Tournament. Opening round action places your Wildcats versus Leto High. Tip-off is scheduled for noon at Alonso High School. December 13, 2008
Wharton 36, Newsome 40 OT
Wharton had every chance they could have possibly generated for themselves. Numerous fast break attempts fell short and Wharton left points on the floor and Newsome outlasts the Wildcats in overtime, 40-36.
Wharton, who started out in an 0-4 hole but rebounded with a strong 9-0 run of their own. Early in the contest Wharton seemed to lack the hustle and will power to crash the boards but thanks to the heart of Mike Robinson, the Wildcats started to crash the boards like mad men. Stephen Simmons hit two back to back buzzer beaters in the second and third quarters, sparking Wharton to maintain the lead. Wharton led for most of the second and third quarter and led for the entire fourth until the waining moments.
With time running out, Wharton locked down the Wolves go-to-guy and forced him to step on the white stripe, a mistake overlooked by the referee. The ball was then swung to Newsome's point guard who delivered the Wolves biggest shot of the knight. After the game tie-ing three fell in Newsome's favor, Wharton turned the ball over on the inbound and set up Newsome with a chance to win the game on the final possession with :06 left in regulation. Newsomes attempt went long and the two teams were headed for OT.
Wharton drew first blood in the extra period, Khiry White hit a 10 foot jumper off the Damian Dixon dish, 36-34. Wharton forced a Newsome turnover and on the ensuing position skipped the ball to Dixon, who's wide open 3 point attempt went long. On the other side of the court, Newsome was called for an offensive foul giving Wharton back the ball with the lead and 2:45 on the clock.
The next Wildcat possession was plagued by controversy as Zach Litton was called for the back court violation, after clearly having the ball deflected prior to being forced to chase the ball back court. Much to the dismay of the home crowd, the referee signaled for the over and back and Wharton was forced to get it done with their defense.
On the very next possession Newsome added another dagger to the Wharton faithful by hitting yet another 3pt shot, this time to give the Wolves the lead for good. On the Wildcats next possession, Senior Khiry White forced and ill advised shot and Owens' rebound attempt landed his body out of bounds.
White redeemed himself on the press seconds later, forcing the turnover, setting up Litton's 5 foot attempt from the baseline that bounced off the rim twice before being snagged by the Newsome forward. After the intentional foul and both free throws were made, sophomore AJ Astroth turned the ball over trying to force the pass to Dixon in hopes for the three to tie up the ball game. On the steal, Wharton's intentional foul was just the exclamation point on their frustration, having let the Wolves hang around with them all game because of missed opportunities.
Wharton, falls to 4-4 and dips, again, under .500 in the district, sitting at 2-3. To what was so close to a statement game, Wharton gets a week to lick the wounds and will return to competition next Saturday in the Alonso Christmas Holiday Tournament.
Wharton, who started out in an 0-4 hole but rebounded with a strong 9-0 run of their own. Early in the contest Wharton seemed to lack the hustle and will power to crash the boards but thanks to the heart of Mike Robinson, the Wildcats started to crash the boards like mad men. Stephen Simmons hit two back to back buzzer beaters in the second and third quarters, sparking Wharton to maintain the lead. Wharton led for most of the second and third quarter and led for the entire fourth until the waining moments.
With time running out, Wharton locked down the Wolves go-to-guy and forced him to step on the white stripe, a mistake overlooked by the referee. The ball was then swung to Newsome's point guard who delivered the Wolves biggest shot of the knight. After the game tie-ing three fell in Newsome's favor, Wharton turned the ball over on the inbound and set up Newsome with a chance to win the game on the final possession with :06 left in regulation. Newsomes attempt went long and the two teams were headed for OT.
Wharton drew first blood in the extra period, Khiry White hit a 10 foot jumper off the Damian Dixon dish, 36-34. Wharton forced a Newsome turnover and on the ensuing position skipped the ball to Dixon, who's wide open 3 point attempt went long. On the other side of the court, Newsome was called for an offensive foul giving Wharton back the ball with the lead and 2:45 on the clock.
The next Wildcat possession was plagued by controversy as Zach Litton was called for the back court violation, after clearly having the ball deflected prior to being forced to chase the ball back court. Much to the dismay of the home crowd, the referee signaled for the over and back and Wharton was forced to get it done with their defense.
On the very next possession Newsome added another dagger to the Wharton faithful by hitting yet another 3pt shot, this time to give the Wolves the lead for good. On the Wildcats next possession, Senior Khiry White forced and ill advised shot and Owens' rebound attempt landed his body out of bounds.
White redeemed himself on the press seconds later, forcing the turnover, setting up Litton's 5 foot attempt from the baseline that bounced off the rim twice before being snagged by the Newsome forward. After the intentional foul and both free throws were made, sophomore AJ Astroth turned the ball over trying to force the pass to Dixon in hopes for the three to tie up the ball game. On the steal, Wharton's intentional foul was just the exclamation point on their frustration, having let the Wolves hang around with them all game because of missed opportunities.
Wharton, falls to 4-4 and dips, again, under .500 in the district, sitting at 2-3. To what was so close to a statement game, Wharton gets a week to lick the wounds and will return to competition next Saturday in the Alonso Christmas Holiday Tournament.
December 11, 2008
Wharton 59, Brandon 34
In years past, a Wharton Brandon game requires a few things: stamina, lung capacity, and a bottle of Advil (for the loud and obnoxious Brandon fans who tend to know everything there is to know about the game of basketball). But nonetheless the 6th Man is a following any team would want.
Tonight, I don't think I heard even a whisper from the visitor side of the gym. Opposite from the "6th Man" was a rejuvenated Blue Crew, who's presence was heard for the first time in a long time. Blue Crew members were dancing, cheering, and taunting the opponent just like the old days. They weren't very loud but still their antics forced a rattle Eagle player to call a time out to the disagreement of the Brandon Head Coach.
Wharton improves to 4-3 (2-2) behind the hot hand of AJ Astroth who scored a game high 17 points, most of which game in the game's opening quarter. Wharton started strong in a must win in regards to staying in the top-seed hunt to make sure they stay on opposite sides of the bracket away from Bloomingdale. Brandon sporting a new head Coach, have been struggling early in the season losing to Robinson and lowly Freedom High School and off to 0-6 start for the first time in a long time.
Wharton headed to the bench up 11 at the end of the first and caused the sub-par Brandon team to turn over the ball over and over again on the way to a 59-34 victory. Early in the 3rd quarter it seemed all but over when Wharton held a 45-18 advantage. With a commanding lead Bastain went to some of his younger, less experienced guys.
Some of the highlights of tonight's game including Astroth's shooting clinic he put on in the first quarter as well as a strong defensive showing all game, causing Brandon to make mistakes that lead to easy transition buckets. Another highlight game when Junior Damian Dixon crossed Brandon's guard, 23, leaving him face down on the floor to answer to the oooh's, awes, and the finger pointing complementary of the Blue Crew.
Kharid Westbrooks, freshman, also saw valuable minutes today and looked impressive on a drive to the basket, laying it in over the Brandon big man while drawling the foul. His free throw attempt was unsuccessful but his overall play was strong. Garry Volcey also provided Wharton with sparks and scored 5 points off the bench including a three pointer from the top of the key early in the competition.
It wasn't the ordinary game with the district title on the line. There was no bantering back and forth between the two crowds. Nor was there boasting afterwards by any of the fans. But regardless of the situation, Wharton hands Brandon yet another loss, this time in a dominating fashion, 59-34.
Next Up-
WHO: Wharton vs. Newsome
WHEN: Saturday, 2:45pm
WHERE: Wharton Gym
Tonight, I don't think I heard even a whisper from the visitor side of the gym. Opposite from the "6th Man" was a rejuvenated Blue Crew, who's presence was heard for the first time in a long time. Blue Crew members were dancing, cheering, and taunting the opponent just like the old days. They weren't very loud but still their antics forced a rattle Eagle player to call a time out to the disagreement of the Brandon Head Coach.
Wharton improves to 4-3 (2-2) behind the hot hand of AJ Astroth who scored a game high 17 points, most of which game in the game's opening quarter. Wharton started strong in a must win in regards to staying in the top-seed hunt to make sure they stay on opposite sides of the bracket away from Bloomingdale. Brandon sporting a new head Coach, have been struggling early in the season losing to Robinson and lowly Freedom High School and off to 0-6 start for the first time in a long time.
Wharton headed to the bench up 11 at the end of the first and caused the sub-par Brandon team to turn over the ball over and over again on the way to a 59-34 victory. Early in the 3rd quarter it seemed all but over when Wharton held a 45-18 advantage. With a commanding lead Bastain went to some of his younger, less experienced guys.
Some of the highlights of tonight's game including Astroth's shooting clinic he put on in the first quarter as well as a strong defensive showing all game, causing Brandon to make mistakes that lead to easy transition buckets. Another highlight game when Junior Damian Dixon crossed Brandon's guard, 23, leaving him face down on the floor to answer to the oooh's, awes, and the finger pointing complementary of the Blue Crew.
Kharid Westbrooks, freshman, also saw valuable minutes today and looked impressive on a drive to the basket, laying it in over the Brandon big man while drawling the foul. His free throw attempt was unsuccessful but his overall play was strong. Garry Volcey also provided Wharton with sparks and scored 5 points off the bench including a three pointer from the top of the key early in the competition.
It wasn't the ordinary game with the district title on the line. There was no bantering back and forth between the two crowds. Nor was there boasting afterwards by any of the fans. But regardless of the situation, Wharton hands Brandon yet another loss, this time in a dominating fashion, 59-34.
Next Up-
WHO: Wharton vs. Newsome
WHEN: Saturday, 2:45pm
WHERE: Wharton Gym
December 8, 2008
Wharton 46, Tampa Bay Tech 55
Hypothetical situation...
Wharton survives a vicious road trip, playing four straight road games, including a trip to district darling Bloomingdale High and then a stroll to Sickles High School to face John Henson and the rest of the Gryphons. Wharton looked strong, shutting down the 5 star commit. The Wildcats returning home, with the Blue Crew fueling the surge with the momentum built up through the teams absence. Right?
Wrong.
Before I get to the game analysis, let me rant about the horrific support provided by a student section that once was so rowdy, had water sprayed in the front row out of frustration of opposing players. The Blue Crew officially hit rock bottom tonight, in a disrespectful way.
Upon arriving, the Blue Crew headed for the daunted section posted behind the bench and... sat down. The Blue Crew was 6 rows deep tonight, but failed to stretch their legs until there was 46.6 seconds left in the game. A valiant attempt by Christina Valenziano was shutdown by laughter and hilarity by Blue Crew members whose backs were turned to the game for 50% of the time. What was once a gem for the Wildcat's basketball program, but it seems as if the only support is coming from parents and the family members of the boys on the team. So be it...
Now back to what's important...
Wharton was plagued by yet another slow start. Tampa Bay Tech started the game off on a 9-1 run that lasted nearly 4 minutes. Wharton finally found their offense late in the first answering with a 6-2 run and ending the quarter down four, 11-7.
When the whistle sounded to start the second quarter, it was all Titans. Tech connected on multiple three point shots, most coming from Nelson, who finished with a game-high 23 points. Nelson made it seem like he was throwing rocks in the ocean, hitting most of the tre-balls with a hand in his face. The Tech offense exploded and the Wildcats were staring at a 35-19 deficit at half.
With the "Who Crew" busy talking about the latest high school rumors, the Wildcats were jolted by Senior Captain, Zachery Litton and Sophomore Sharpshooter, Damian Dixon. Dixon hit two big threes to jump start the 'Cats in the third. But just when the 'Cats would inch closer, Nelson would respond with a big shot of his own. The Wildcats cut the Titan lead to eight, 44-36, within striking distance to finally take the lead in the fourth.
Trailing the entire game, Wharton was within four with 2:39 to play. Sparked by the hustle of Zachery Litton, Who score 7 of his 9 points down the stretch in the fourth quarter. Litton's big 3 point shot and will brought the 'Cats back, including an inbound lob pass to Xavier Owens who completed the 3 point play moments after making the bucket and drawing the foul.
Down 4, with 2 minutes left on the clock, with all the momentum swinging there way Wharton seemed as if they were going to pull off the comeback. That was before Nelson trotted down the court and hit his biggest three of the game. Down seven with a minute left, the Wildcats couldn't find the shots they were looking for and thus marked Tampa Bay Tech's first ever win over Wharton.
The second straight loss drops Wharton to .500 at 3-3 and puts them 1 game under in district play (1-2). Wharton will look to rebound against rival Brandon High School this Thursday night back at home.
Next Up -
WHO: Wharton vs Brandon
WHEN: 7:45 Thursday Night, JV @ 6
WHERE: WHARTON GYM
December 6, 2008
Wharton 33, Sickles 40
What was supposed to be a blowout turned out to be one team's rise back to contending and the others mediocrity exposed.
Wharton fell to the"best team in the area," Sickles High School, 40-33. Wharton led the "mighty" Gryphons heading into the half, 23-20 and trailed by 4 in the final minutes of the contest. North Carolina commit, John Henson, played an average game at best only scoring 17 points, 13 of which came in the second half.
Many Wildcat supporters saw this game as a measuring stick and the Wildcats would know where they stand amongst the area's top teams. It seems like now they have there answer. But for the players themselves, they knew they were capable of playing with anyone in the tri-county area, regardless of what Nick Williams and the other prep sports reporters print. Wharton went toe-to-toe with Henson and the Gryphons and watched a game they had slip away late in the fourth quarter.
Leading at half, the "glow" that had been related with Sickles and their monumental transfer had already deteriorated. Xavier Owens, who's job was to try and contain Henson, played an outstanding defensive game and rejected a handful of the 5 star phenoms shots despite giving up nearly 6 inches to him. Owens, who's name is nowhere to be found in any paper, who has no photos on ESPN.com or Rivals.com, played out of his mind today. At times, the sophomore out shined the senior on both sides of the ball.
Early in the first, Owens took the ball to the rim and rolled Henson for the easy bucket. Few possessions later, AJ Astroth pulled a 3 right over Henson to spark a strong shooting performance for the Wildcats. After the hot start, Wharton failed to find an answer to the 1-3-1 that the Gryphons sat back in and with Henson playing the middle man its virtually impossible to run an offensive set. That and the full court press caused a lot of problems for the Wildcats. But Wharton managed to score despite the size advantage.
For those of you who get caught up in the alley-oops and put back dunks, get over it. Its the game of basketball and when you are playing a 6 foot 10 inch all-star, your liable to get dunked on.
No one wants to hear excuses about what could have been or what might have happened but after reading so many articles about Henson and this strong Gryphons squad, from what I saw today, I am not impressed. If it wasn't for a lop-sided foul ratio favoring the Gryphons and a few obvious but overlooked goal-tending calls, Nick Williams and whoever else jumped on the Gryphon Bandwagon might have been eating crow for dinner tonight.
Two weeks into the season, one things for sure... Don't read your press clippings. Sickles, or should I say Henson, is a very good team. Don't get me wrong. Wharton and Sickles have had many great contests in the past, including a 17-16 game in the summer league when Damian Dixon hit an off-balance three point shot with 0.6 on the inbound pass. With Bloomingdale falling to Newsome by 11 Monday night (spoiling the "RAGA REVENGE" plan) and district cellar-dweller Freedom High School upsetting defending district champion Brandon (don't be too shocked, they graduated everybody but the water boy), the district is wide open and up for grabs. After today's game, the Wildcats seem to be in the fast lane again after a strong showing.
If we are only 7 points worse than the so called "best team in the area" then I am excited about the remainder of the season and the immediate future looks bright.
Wharton falls to 3-2(1-1) and finally gets to play in front of it's home crowd Monday night against Tampa Bay Tech.
Extra Note: JV beats Sickles 30-20, improves to 1-2.
Wharton fell to the"best team in the area," Sickles High School, 40-33. Wharton led the "mighty" Gryphons heading into the half, 23-20 and trailed by 4 in the final minutes of the contest. North Carolina commit, John Henson, played an average game at best only scoring 17 points, 13 of which came in the second half.
Many Wildcat supporters saw this game as a measuring stick and the Wildcats would know where they stand amongst the area's top teams. It seems like now they have there answer. But for the players themselves, they knew they were capable of playing with anyone in the tri-county area, regardless of what Nick Williams and the other prep sports reporters print. Wharton went toe-to-toe with Henson and the Gryphons and watched a game they had slip away late in the fourth quarter.
Leading at half, the "glow" that had been related with Sickles and their monumental transfer had already deteriorated. Xavier Owens, who's job was to try and contain Henson, played an outstanding defensive game and rejected a handful of the 5 star phenoms shots despite giving up nearly 6 inches to him. Owens, who's name is nowhere to be found in any paper, who has no photos on ESPN.com or Rivals.com, played out of his mind today. At times, the sophomore out shined the senior on both sides of the ball.
Early in the first, Owens took the ball to the rim and rolled Henson for the easy bucket. Few possessions later, AJ Astroth pulled a 3 right over Henson to spark a strong shooting performance for the Wildcats. After the hot start, Wharton failed to find an answer to the 1-3-1 that the Gryphons sat back in and with Henson playing the middle man its virtually impossible to run an offensive set. That and the full court press caused a lot of problems for the Wildcats. But Wharton managed to score despite the size advantage.
For those of you who get caught up in the alley-oops and put back dunks, get over it. Its the game of basketball and when you are playing a 6 foot 10 inch all-star, your liable to get dunked on.
No one wants to hear excuses about what could have been or what might have happened but after reading so many articles about Henson and this strong Gryphons squad, from what I saw today, I am not impressed. If it wasn't for a lop-sided foul ratio favoring the Gryphons and a few obvious but overlooked goal-tending calls, Nick Williams and whoever else jumped on the Gryphon Bandwagon might have been eating crow for dinner tonight.
Two weeks into the season, one things for sure... Don't read your press clippings. Sickles, or should I say Henson, is a very good team. Don't get me wrong. Wharton and Sickles have had many great contests in the past, including a 17-16 game in the summer league when Damian Dixon hit an off-balance three point shot with 0.6 on the inbound pass. With Bloomingdale falling to Newsome by 11 Monday night (spoiling the "RAGA REVENGE" plan) and district cellar-dweller Freedom High School upsetting defending district champion Brandon (don't be too shocked, they graduated everybody but the water boy), the district is wide open and up for grabs. After today's game, the Wildcats seem to be in the fast lane again after a strong showing.
If we are only 7 points worse than the so called "best team in the area" then I am excited about the remainder of the season and the immediate future looks bright.
Wharton falls to 3-2(1-1) and finally gets to play in front of it's home crowd Monday night against Tampa Bay Tech.
Extra Note: JV beats Sickles 30-20, improves to 1-2.
December 5, 2008
Wharton ALUM Update: Shawn Vanzant
Shawn Vanzant, all-time points scorer and c/o 2007, hit a big three-point shot tonight to help his Butler Bulldogs beat Cleveland State on a nationally televised game. The article is posted below...
ASSOCIATED PRESS
"CLEVELAND -- A 3-pointer by Zach Hahn with 1 second remaining gave unbeaten Butler a 50-48 victory over Cleveland State in a wild finish to a Thursday night game that had three lead changes in the final 19 seconds.
The winner came after a 3-pointer by Shawn Vanzant had given Butler a 47-46 lead with 19 seconds left, and a layup by J'Nathan Bullock put Cleveland State ahead 48-47 with 5 seconds remaining.Hahn had 6 points on two 3-pointers for Butler (6-0, 1-0 Horizon League), which was paced by Willie Veasley's 9 points and Gordon Hayward's 12 rebounds. Cedric Jackson had 11 points and 10 rebounds for Cleveland State (5-3, 1-1). "
Congrats on the big win Shawn. Keep working hard. The Wildcat Nation is, and will always be, behind you!
ASSOCIATED PRESS
"CLEVELAND -- A 3-pointer by Zach Hahn with 1 second remaining gave unbeaten Butler a 50-48 victory over Cleveland State in a wild finish to a Thursday night game that had three lead changes in the final 19 seconds.
The winner came after a 3-pointer by Shawn Vanzant had given Butler a 47-46 lead with 19 seconds left, and a layup by J'Nathan Bullock put Cleveland State ahead 48-47 with 5 seconds remaining.Hahn had 6 points on two 3-pointers for Butler (6-0, 1-0 Horizon League), which was paced by Willie Veasley's 9 points and Gordon Hayward's 12 rebounds. Cedric Jackson had 11 points and 10 rebounds for Cleveland State (5-3, 1-1). "
Congrats on the big win Shawn. Keep working hard. The Wildcat Nation is, and will always be, behind you!
December 4, 2008
Wharton 49, Armwood 46
Chills ran up my spine the moment Armwood hit the floor. No, I am not a die-hard Hawk's basketball supporter. It wasn't the sight that brought upon the memories, it was the PA system. Blaring through the speakers was Juelz Santana's "The Second Coming," a song I relate to the 2006-2007 Wharton basketball campaign. After the track ended, I was quickly brought back to reality and readied myself for the game at hand.
Wharton Wildcats squared off against District foe, Armwood, in hopes to add another notch to the win column. The 'Cats fresh off a defeat looked to rebound strongly against the Hawks. Last years contest in the Tony Ippolito Memorial Gym went Armwood's way in a decisive manner lead by all county senior, Adam Salazzo that now calls East Tennessee State home.
This years game held no star power. But where there was a lack of glamor, there was an abundance of fouls. There were so many fouls that Armwood was in the double bonus midway through the second quarter and saw a forward head for the bench with his 5th foul at the 3 minute mark in the 3rd. Wharton was also plagues by foul trouble early.
Within the first six minutes of the game, Wharton PG, Zach Litton, committed his second foul and was sat down to prevent any further damage. With early fouls, the Wildcats showed some new faces early, including freshman Kharid Westbrooks who was recently moved up from the JV squad saw some early minutes when Litton was forced to take a breather.
Another new face was Khiry White who was making his first appearance this season after ending football this past Saturday. White, who was struggling to even find the rim, looked rusty in his 2008-2009 debut. His play will greatly benefit Wharton's offense. He showed a spark of his ability late in the 3rd quarter on a great defensive, hustle play resulting in a momentum-filled block in a key defensive possession for the Wildcats.
Wharton took a commanding 31-21 lead early in the second half thanks to a big three pointer by sophomore AJ Astroth, followed by a big shot by Senior Stephen Simmons. Just when it looked like Wharton was going to blow the roof of the gym Armwood went on a 12-0 run that spanned the final 6 minutes of the 3rd quarter. Armwood was 33-31 heading into the final period thanks to their effort in the second half of the quarter.
After the slide, Wharton kicked off the fourth with a 12-3 run of their own that looked to final put the Hawks away. The score looks as if this one was a bit closer than it actually was, thanks to some late desperation three point shots by Armwood.
Wharton's 12-3 run that ultimately ousted the Hawks had been jolted by a stout defensive showing that lead to poor shot selection. After every miss, the Wildcats pushed the ball up the floor and generated easy looks for easy buckets.
Wharton improves to 3-1 and 1-1 in the district. Wharton travels to Sickles High School this coming Saturday to face UNC commit, Henson. Sickles looks to make it two straight over the Wildcats after defeating Wharton in the season opener last year at Wharton in front of the Blue Crew. Wharton hopes to come back to the Wharton gym with a 4-1 record and some momentum heading into a district competition with Tampa Bay Tech this coming Monday after four game road trip.
Wharton Wildcats squared off against District foe, Armwood, in hopes to add another notch to the win column. The 'Cats fresh off a defeat looked to rebound strongly against the Hawks. Last years contest in the Tony Ippolito Memorial Gym went Armwood's way in a decisive manner lead by all county senior, Adam Salazzo that now calls East Tennessee State home.
This years game held no star power. But where there was a lack of glamor, there was an abundance of fouls. There were so many fouls that Armwood was in the double bonus midway through the second quarter and saw a forward head for the bench with his 5th foul at the 3 minute mark in the 3rd. Wharton was also plagues by foul trouble early.
Within the first six minutes of the game, Wharton PG, Zach Litton, committed his second foul and was sat down to prevent any further damage. With early fouls, the Wildcats showed some new faces early, including freshman Kharid Westbrooks who was recently moved up from the JV squad saw some early minutes when Litton was forced to take a breather.
Another new face was Khiry White who was making his first appearance this season after ending football this past Saturday. White, who was struggling to even find the rim, looked rusty in his 2008-2009 debut. His play will greatly benefit Wharton's offense. He showed a spark of his ability late in the 3rd quarter on a great defensive, hustle play resulting in a momentum-filled block in a key defensive possession for the Wildcats.
Wharton took a commanding 31-21 lead early in the second half thanks to a big three pointer by sophomore AJ Astroth, followed by a big shot by Senior Stephen Simmons. Just when it looked like Wharton was going to blow the roof of the gym Armwood went on a 12-0 run that spanned the final 6 minutes of the 3rd quarter. Armwood was 33-31 heading into the final period thanks to their effort in the second half of the quarter.
After the slide, Wharton kicked off the fourth with a 12-3 run of their own that looked to final put the Hawks away. The score looks as if this one was a bit closer than it actually was, thanks to some late desperation three point shots by Armwood.
Wharton's 12-3 run that ultimately ousted the Hawks had been jolted by a stout defensive showing that lead to poor shot selection. After every miss, the Wildcats pushed the ball up the floor and generated easy looks for easy buckets.
Wharton improves to 3-1 and 1-1 in the district. Wharton travels to Sickles High School this coming Saturday to face UNC commit, Henson. Sickles looks to make it two straight over the Wildcats after defeating Wharton in the season opener last year at Wharton in front of the Blue Crew. Wharton hopes to come back to the Wharton gym with a 4-1 record and some momentum heading into a district competition with Tampa Bay Tech this coming Monday after four game road trip.
December 1, 2008
Wharton 48, Bloomingdale 67
Charles Barkley once said, "You never live by the three, you always die by them." That's a notion Bloomingdale seemed determined to prove wrong.
Wharton drops their first game of the season to District Darling Bloomingdale High School, 67-48. The Wildcats couldn't outlast the Bulls' outside shooting even though their offense seemed more productive than it did in previous games. Wharton came out firing scoring 29 points in the first half and managing an overall strong performance. Stephen Simmons brought his "a" game defensively holding Callum Townsend to only 10 points (3 of which came off a shot with :25 left in the game). The Bulls had to shoot in the high 60's from behind the arch, a statistics that usually never lands you on the "L" side of the scoreboard. Damian Dixon also played an outstanding game on both sides of the ball, including a earth-shattering block late in the second quarter. Dixon also provided Wharton with the fire power needed to run with the Bulls early in the contest.
Newsome Wolves transfer, Joe Raga was a non factor, scoring almost all of his points when the game was out of reach for the Wildcats. The game ball needs to go to Sean Hayes and S. Rooks who powered the high scoring offense with three point shot after three point shot.
The first 5 minutes was an offensive clinic being put on by both Wharton and Bloomingdale, each scoring as if the others defense wasn't even on the floor. Matching buckets with buckets, the experience Bulls pulled away late in the 3rd quarter, forcing the 'Cats to play from behind.
The deficit was only 12 going into halftime but Bloomingdale seemed to be hitting shots at every key time, ultimately deleting any momentum Wharton was generating. Bastain and the Wildcats couldn't string together enough stops with offensive points.
As for the best team in the district? The jury is still out. They have the guard play that could carry them to a district title but every great team has an inside game. Regardless of its a big man or guards who can attack the basket. Townsend, who most would consider their marquee player, plays lazy defense and only collected his points in the waning moments. His game is set-up and shoot. His ability to drive and penetrate is non-existent and he has no mobility in his game.The unsung heroes are the boys who do all the work, Rooks and Hayes, both of whose names were coincidentally left out of the newspaper articles.
One last note, what is with the lack of student support for these boys. As I looked around in the stands tonight, I saw nothing but parents in navy blue and white shirts. Not even one student was in attendance for tonights contest. Regardless of where the event was played, the lack of student support was sub-par. In 2007, a huge contest between Wharton and rival Brandon was being played at the Brandon Eagles gym. Before tip-off, the Blue Crew towered behind Wharton's bench and overpowered the voice of the 6th man, a performance that resulted in the players personally thanking each Blue Crew member in attendance individually.
Wharton, now 2-1 (0-1), hits the road again to face the Armwood Eagles in a district match up. Wharton will look to unleash some built up frustration on Thursday night after being dealt their first loss of the season.
Wharton drops their first game of the season to District Darling Bloomingdale High School, 67-48. The Wildcats couldn't outlast the Bulls' outside shooting even though their offense seemed more productive than it did in previous games. Wharton came out firing scoring 29 points in the first half and managing an overall strong performance. Stephen Simmons brought his "a" game defensively holding Callum Townsend to only 10 points (3 of which came off a shot with :25 left in the game). The Bulls had to shoot in the high 60's from behind the arch, a statistics that usually never lands you on the "L" side of the scoreboard. Damian Dixon also played an outstanding game on both sides of the ball, including a earth-shattering block late in the second quarter. Dixon also provided Wharton with the fire power needed to run with the Bulls early in the contest.
Newsome Wolves transfer, Joe Raga was a non factor, scoring almost all of his points when the game was out of reach for the Wildcats. The game ball needs to go to Sean Hayes and S. Rooks who powered the high scoring offense with three point shot after three point shot.
The first 5 minutes was an offensive clinic being put on by both Wharton and Bloomingdale, each scoring as if the others defense wasn't even on the floor. Matching buckets with buckets, the experience Bulls pulled away late in the 3rd quarter, forcing the 'Cats to play from behind.
The deficit was only 12 going into halftime but Bloomingdale seemed to be hitting shots at every key time, ultimately deleting any momentum Wharton was generating. Bastain and the Wildcats couldn't string together enough stops with offensive points.
As for the best team in the district? The jury is still out. They have the guard play that could carry them to a district title but every great team has an inside game. Regardless of its a big man or guards who can attack the basket. Townsend, who most would consider their marquee player, plays lazy defense and only collected his points in the waning moments. His game is set-up and shoot. His ability to drive and penetrate is non-existent and he has no mobility in his game.The unsung heroes are the boys who do all the work, Rooks and Hayes, both of whose names were coincidentally left out of the newspaper articles.
One last note, what is with the lack of student support for these boys. As I looked around in the stands tonight, I saw nothing but parents in navy blue and white shirts. Not even one student was in attendance for tonights contest. Regardless of where the event was played, the lack of student support was sub-par. In 2007, a huge contest between Wharton and rival Brandon was being played at the Brandon Eagles gym. Before tip-off, the Blue Crew towered behind Wharton's bench and overpowered the voice of the 6th man, a performance that resulted in the players personally thanking each Blue Crew member in attendance individually.
Wharton, now 2-1 (0-1), hits the road again to face the Armwood Eagles in a district match up. Wharton will look to unleash some built up frustration on Thursday night after being dealt their first loss of the season.
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