South’s boys’ varsity basketball team started the season off with a decisive victory on Nov. 22, defeating Rochester High School with a dominant performance. The game started off high-energy, and although Rochester began with a 4-point lead, with three minutes left in the first quarter, South had the game tied 10-10. Keeping that drive throughout the game, South took the win 64-40.

As the game progressed, the Blue Devils kept their energy high, widening the score gap with each basket they shot. By halftime, it was clear that South had control over the court. Jamison Spratt ’28 said that aggression was a major emphasis from the start.

“He wants us to be aggressive, go at them,” Spratt said. “So we were hyped up, ready to go.”

Throughout the game, South’s players demonstrated teamwork and consistency, explaining their control of the game. Although Rochester was catching up, it wasn’t enough. Coach Stephen Bernard added that the team’s success was from their work on the court together.

“Just the way we shared the ball and knocked down open shots,” Bernard said. “The guys who came in just picked up where the others left off.”

Everyone in the stands noticed the effort and energy that the boys were developing as the game went on. Addison Powers ’28 was no exception, as the team’s assertiveness stood out to her the most during the entire game.

“I think it was a lot of effort, we wanted to start the season strong,” Powers said. “I do think we did that with our teamwork and determination tonight.”

The effort and endurance were displayed by both the boys from South and Rochester over the entire game. It was a combative and entertaining game with a few turning points.

“They played with intensity and toughness,” Bernard said. “That always makes you proud.”