Published in the January 11, 2017 edition
POINT GUARD Billy Arseneault (11) attempts to drive to the hoop during the boys’ basketball team’s 68-57 win over North Reading Jan. 3. (John Friberg Photo)
By DAN TOMASELLO
LYNNFIELD — The boys’ basketball team compiled a 2-1 record over the course of the past two weeks, improving the Pioneers’ record this season to 5-1.
The Pioneers began last week defeating archrival North Reading 68-57 Jan. 3.
Junior Zach Shone had a monster game for the locals, finishing with 16 points and 16 rebounds.
“Zack is so explosive as an athlete with a legitimate nose for the ball,” said Pioneers head coach Scott MacKenzie. “With so much attention paid to Lou (Ellis) and Mike (Carangelo) and Billy (Arseneault), Zack’s been able to take advantage of the defensive coverage thrown his way. His efforts were huge for us tonight.”
Ellis finished with 17 points and six boards. Junior Dan Jameson added seven points and nine rebounds.
“This was a good win for us,” said MacKenzie. “North Reading is always a tough match-up and the guys proved to themselves that we can dig ourselves out of a second half deficit. This will be huge moving forward in the season.”
Defeats Rockport
The Pioneers kept rolling and defeated Rockport 55-40 Jan. 6.
Senior center Brendan Bey had seven points and six rebounds. Senior guard Brian Basilesco finished with four points, two assists and two steals. Senior guard Andre Padovani had five rebounds, two assists and two steals.
“It was great to see Brendan, Brian and Andre get extended minutes and perform so well,” said MacKenzie. “These three kids are the definition of selfless. They put the team first every day and all season. Believe me when I say that I am blessed as a coach to have them on our team.”
Falls to Melrose
The Pioneers fell 61-48 to Melrose Dec. 30.
Carangelo had 17 points and seven rebounds.
“We were terrible tonight from top to bottom,” said MacKenzie. “Out-coached. Outplayed. Out toughed. Everybody in that locker room was disappointed in our performance and rightfully so.”
