December 31, 2024 – Story by Caitlin Patten, photos by Joshua Ross
On Monday, December 30th, Hingham Boys Basketball was able to pull away in overtime for a 64-60 win over Nauset High.
In the season thus far, the Harbormen have struggled to take the win, but Head Coach Bob Kniffen says that the team has had “tremendous leadership and high morale, regardless of the outcomes to this point”. Now with two wins in a row, Kniffen and his team looks to continue the stretch in the following weeks.
The boys started off strong in the first quarter as Sophomore Cole Palek began the scoring with a quick three. Senior Captain Matty Cummings quickly responded, giving the Harbormen a five point lead early on. The first quarter defense was phenomenal, by holding Nauset scoreless for the first four minutes of the game.
Nauset, rattled by the 16-4 opening quarter, started to get back in the groove in the second quarter. Hingham, for the most part, held their ground with great ball movement from Sophomore J.T Reale, who led all scorers with 22 points, and Junior Jake Varholak. The team ended the half up 28-16.
Unfortunately for the Harbormen, Nauset looked to quickly close the gap. Late in the third quarter, Nauset brought it to a one point game, but Hingham still continued to hold the 42-40 lead going into the last quarter.
Things started to get shaky for the Harbormen in the fourth quarter. The defense, which had previously been lights out, was beginning to let up more shots. A few turnovers and missed free throws also helped Nauset take their first lead of the game. However, Hingham turned it around late in the fourth quarter. With thirty seconds left, a huge block from Palek gave the Harbormen the ball, and Cummings was able to capitalize on it. Hingham then forced a turnover, which sent Varholak to the line. With four seconds left, Varholak made both free throws, boosting the Harbormen to a tie game at 54-54.
Hingham’s level of play on both sides of the ball proved to be the defining factor in their win. The four minute overtime ended with a Harbormen victory of 64-60.
When asked about any standout players, Coach Kniffen explained that “these two wins, while each one has been highlighted by different leading scores, have been team wins”. He also adds that the team is young and inexperienced, but the effort coming from every player is extraordinary. Kniffen, looking to bring his team to more success, says that the team will not “rely on one individual player, but rather players taking advantage when the opportunity presents itself”.
Best of luck in the season to Coach Kniffen and his team!