The New Philadelphia boys’ basketball team (9-5, 6-3) took a 51-25 conference win over West Holmes on Jan. 20, highlighted by staunch defense and a spread out scoring attack where nine Quakers put points on the board.
“Offensively, we played with better pace,” said New Philadelphia Coach Zach Ross. “The ball moved around well and we had many players help with scoring tonight.”
The Quakers took a 16-4 lead in the first quarter, led by Boston Crowell’s eight points. Quinn Miller hit a three in the quarter for the Quakers, as well. The solid defense by the Quakers continued in the second quarter, with New Philadelphia outscoring the Knights 9-4 to take a 25-8 halftime lead. Owen Schoelles had four points in the quarter for New Philadelphia, and Collier Cline scored all four points for the Knights. At halftime, Crowell led the Quakers with eight points, while Carson Crandall and Schoelles had six points apiece. Cline had six points for the Knights.
The Quakers had a 13-8 third quarter advantage, led by Reid Wells with four points. They finished the game with a 13-9 scoring advantage with six players scoring, securing a lopsided victory.
Crowell was 6-for-8 shooting with 12 points to lead the offense for New Philadelphia. He also had two rebounds and an assist.
“Boston did a great job inside,” said Coach Ross. “He got to his spots where he can be successful offensively, and did a great job finishing.”
Owen Miller and Schoelles each had eight points. Schoelles also excelled on the glass with seven rebounds.
Carson Crandall scored six points and grabbed two boards, while Quinn Miller had five points, four rebounds and an assist. Colton Slaughter put up four points, three boards and two assists. Wells distributed the ball well with five assists, and added four points and two rebounds. Vince Migoni and Aidan Mushrush had two points apiece to round out the scoring for New Philadelphia.
West Holmes had only three players score in the game. Cline led with 12 points, while Nate Fair put up 11 points. Sam Sprang had two points for the Knights.
“Defensively, we rebounded very well,” said Coach Ross. “We did not give West Holmes any offensive rebounds. Anytime you can limit 2nd chance opportunities, it’s usually a good formula for a good night on defense.”
