GALLERY: Sophomore Ben Woolever led all scorers for the win- Hornell – 68, York – 53
From Hornell High School Atheltics, GALLERY by JC’s Photography
The Hornell Red Raiders traveled to Alfred University Wednesday night to take on the York Golden Knights in their home opener. The Red Raiders overcame an early deficit to defeat the Golden Knights 68-53.
Hornell fell behind early in the game and struggled on both ends of the court. After two quick time-outs from head coach, Kirk Scholes, the Red Raiders began to find their rhythm. Down 21-14 at the end of the first quarter, Hornell outscored the Golden Knights 22-5 in the second quarter to put them up 36-26 going into halftime. The Red Raiders were able to keep pace throughout the second half for the victory.
“Tonight we started slow,” commented Scholes. “We weren’t tough enough defensively or on the glass in the first quarter. As the game went on, we got better. We forced some turnovers, got some rebounds and played tougher. Our defensive intensity and toughness will be the key to this team being successful!”
Four players scored in double figures for the Red Raiders. Sophomore Ben Woolever led all scorers with 25 points in the win. “Offensively, Ben Woolever led us in scoring 25. He was very efficient. The best part about Ben is he takes great shots. He is making the right decision out there a lot. He has grown so much mentally, and his ceiling is so high!”
Scholes continued, “Tyrone Buchanan also played a stellar game. For a freshman to have the impact he’s having is just awesome. He’s got such a bright future, but we need him to continue to contribute now. I love that he took a charge tonight. We talked about it in practice and while watching tape and he put it into action. The kid is a gamer and he’s not afraid!” Buchanan added 16 points and 6 rebounds for the Raiders.
Seniors Demayne Dixon and Marco Picco added 14 and 13 points respectively. Dixon dominated on the defensive end of the court as well and tallied 8 steals for the Red Raiders, while Picco grabbed 7 rebounds in the win.
Speaking on his seniors, Scholes reflected, “I also thought Marco Picco hit some big shots and gave us some toughness inside. We need Marco to be our anchor and to have that grit. He’s got to battle bigs and he’s going to be giving up inches every night. And, Demayne was energy all night. When he starts to finish a few more bunnies he’s going to have some big nights. The thing I liked the most though, was he never got down. He showed leadership and grit. He also took a charge, something he wouldn’t have done a year ago. He’s growing as a leader and he’s going to have some big games this season!”
The Golden Knights were led by senior Parker Bonefede who led his team with 23 points.
The Red Raiders travel to Livonia Friday night to take on the Bulldogs in a LCAA matchup with tipoff scheduled for 7pm.
