By Ava McCullough
(February 3, 2025) — On February 1, 2025, the Haddam-Killingworth High School Boys Basketball team defeated the Wheeler Lions 48-43 to improve to 7-8 on the season. The game was tied after the first quarter with the Cougars taking the lead by one point at the half.
The Cougars went into the fourth quarter tied at 34 after a third quarter-ending three pointer by senior Andrew Crayton. With time winding down in the 4th the Cougars saw outstanding performances, including a huge block by senior Jake McKenzie, a key lay-up by Crayton, and a huge defensive rebound by junior Declan Moriarty with 2.7 seconds on the clock, with Moriarty thereafter sinking two free throws despite Wheeler’s attempts to ice the shooter.
The star performer of the game, junior Jay Evans, led the team with 14 points and sound play against a difficult and hostile opponent rooted on by overly aggressive fans. Evans remained cool under pressure ignoring the Wheeler rhetoric and continued to focus on his game, demonstrating consistent hustle including securing two huge steals. Powerhouse junior Spencer Savoy snagged six rebounds while McKenzie and Moriarty each had four rebounds and sophomores Kody Lehet and Brody Ferguson had two rebounds apiece, collectively providing the necessary defense in the 4th.
Crayton led in rebounding with eight. Rounding out the scoring Crayton (12), Moriarty (12), senior Joe Slane (2), Savoy (2), Ferguson (4) and sophomore Mason Eighmy (2). It was a solid team effort and a much-needed win for HK. The Cougars look to keep the momentum going at home on February 4, 2025 against East Hampton, JV at 5:30 p.m., Varsity at 7:00 p.m. Come out to support your Cougars. See you on the Court.
Photos by Erin Crayton
