Red Devils come out on top in nail-biter against Bordentown

Red Devils are now on a five game win streak after starting their season 1-2

Aaron Rigby, Sports Writer

The RV Varsity Boys basketball team’s win streak continues after they defeat Bordentown, just one night after they traveled to Willingboro High School and defeated them 63-52 on their court.  

The Red Devils were impressive in this game despite nearly blowing a thirteen point lead.  They were in control for most of the game and were great on both the offensive and defensive end, holding Bordentown to only 21 points to their 34 at halftime. Both senior Giania Blango and junor Donovan Ross led RV in scoring at half with nine points each. 

Coming out of halftime, Bordentown went on a 7-0 run in the first two minutes of the third quarter, cutting RV’s lead to just six. Though RV was able to sustain their lead throughout the third and fourth, Bordentown just kept chipping at it and eventually tied and took the lead with two made free throws with 2:19 remaining in the fourth. 

After a great defensive possession, Bordentown called a timeout and got called for a five second violation, which gave RV possession. After an RV timeout, Donovan Ross quickly scored, putting RV back up 48-47 with 1:23 remaining in the contest. After a made free throw by Bordentown, we had a tie game with only 1:12 on the clock. 

With 56.9 seconds remaining, senior Corey Williams assisted junior Joey Dinneen on an easy layup, putting RV up 50-48. Bordentown then missed a 3, Donovan Ross made a layup putting RV up 4, Joey Dinneen blocked a layup attempt on the defensive end, and finally, junior Jack Orendac was fouled on a layup attempt and made both free throws icing the game 54-48. Donovan Ross was RV’s top scorer, finishing the game with 17 points, followed by Giania Blango, who finished with 13. 

Postgame, Varsity head Coach James Flanagan commented on their five game win streak. “After we suffered a tough loss against Highland, we have been practicing and refocused ourselves on improving our defense,” he said.

He also spoke highly of his young group doing this well, especially after losing two of their best players to injuries. “I am pleased that the young guys are starting to believe in each other, as the season has progressed our team chemistry has improved.” He added, “Our depth has helped us out tremendously, as we only play eight guys regularly.” 

Coach Flanagan also commended the freshman squad, who are now 9-0 after defeating Bordentown’s freshmen team. 

“Our freshmen team is loaded. We have depth, talent, and size. Coach Flood does a terrific job with them,” he said.