Despite Rocky Opening Scrimmage, Great Potential Abounds for Varsity Basketball

On Tuesday, December 6th, the Boys Varsity Basketball team had its unofficial season opener in a scrimmage against Montville. Though Coach Reel stated he was glad that no running score was kept, it is doubtless that this scrimmage – and those to come – will serve as priceless opportunities in unlocking the potential of this season’s squad.

I would be remiss to mince words when it comes to describing Madison’s performance – and in a word, it was… frustrating. Throughout the four quarters played, the Montville Mustangs demonstrated an ability to simply play at a faster speed than the Dodgers: who seemed to be constantly beaten off the ball with ease whilst having little to return with on the other side of the court.

That’s not to say Madison’s defense was entirely lacking, nor that the Dodgers lacked spirit. There were several moments throughout where Madison earned turnovers and denied points through the sheer will and determination of the players on the court, such as when senior Colin Melvin sprinted down to prevent a fastbreak lay-up without giving up a foul in the first quarter. Both seniors Sean Mariani and Jared Barnes earned possessions on a “loose-ball” – when no one has the ball and it’s ‘loose’ on the floor – and sophomore Evan Colao had multiple steals. 

However, when the Dodgers did have the ball, they didn’t do very much with it. Save for the moments when Madison was able to set up plays and successfully executed them – which often resulted in made baskets – the Dodgers were oftentimes slow, timid, and caught on their heels by Montville’s press-out man. Senior Jack Eckardt topped the team’s offensive output with five assists, followed by Sean Mariani and Evan Colao (each with 3), but the Dodgers only earned a pitiful three offensive rebounds – which is somewhat indicative of their offensive execution as a whole.

However, just as I would be wrong to sugarcoat Madison’s first match-up against another team, I would be selling the team short not to relay the massive potential they displayed throughout the game. Though young, the team is deep with talent, and every player demonstrated that they were never going to take anything lying down. Their dedication and discipline was exceedingly admirable, and these scrimmages will only serve as opportunities for the team to continue to improve and build synergy. Coach Reel certainly has work to do, but fortunately for him, his team already has the key ingredient of success hardwired into them – heart.

Madison travels to play Randolph today, December 8th at 4:00pm, and then to Summit on Monday, December 12th at 4:00pm. Go support them if you can – packed stands are always appreciated. Go Dodgers!