Boys' Win Claims Tournament Championship

On Friday, February 19th, Ware Academy's Boys Varsity Basketball team took the court at Christchurch School with one goal in mind--winning a championship.

The Waves came into the I.S.A.C. Tournament championship game against St. Claire Walker Middle School riding an eleven game winning streak and were hoping their twelfth win in a row would be a memorable one. This was Ware's fifth championship game appearance in the last six years, earned this time by defeating Aylett Country Day School in the semi-final game 39 – 10. 

The crowd was not disappointed by the efforts of the Waves and Seahawks as both teams opened up the game exchanging three point baskets and continued the back and forth action for the rest of the first half, with Ware holding a slim one point lead 18–17. The third quarter belonged to the Waves, who outscored St. Claire Walker 9–1. The Waves team defense and rebounding made the difference down the stretch as Ware held the Seahawks to just five points in the second half. 

Ware was led by Patrick Murphy, who had a game high of 17 points to go with six rebounds and four assists. Kyle Blankenship added five points while grabbing a team high nine rebounds. Jeremy Herrin (five points) and Brett Pausic (five points) provided outstanding defensive pressure throughout the game for the Waves as they limited the Seahawks offensive opportunities. Sam Spadaccini added a strong defensive presence on the boards, ripping down seven rebounds in the game, while Mason Kelly contributed an outstanding allaround performance with two points, four assists, two steals and three rebounds. 

In the end, Ware wore down St. Claire Walker and pulled away with a 34 – 22 victory to claim the championship and finish their season with 12 wins and 2 losses. “This was an amazing season with a special group of players who continued to grow as a team throughout the season.  Their hard work paid off”, said Coach Morgan. “I am extremely happy for our eighth graders who have put so much time into our basketball program since their fifth grade year. They are deserving of their accomplishments”.