Despite Tough Loss to Damascus, Boys’ Season Still Looks Promising

by Jackson Hongtong ‘21

The boys varsity basketball team have proven themselves as contenders this season up until this point, putting together a solid 5-4 record. Along with being tied for second in the 4A East division for their 2-1 divisional record, they are also third overall in overall record in the division.

“We are all hungry and competitive to win. It’s a battle every practice which makes the whole team better as this season goes on,” said senior guard Bryan Major, who has been a contributor on both offense and defense this season for the Warriors. “Everyone has a role on the team and everyone’s trying to play so we have to play our best basketball.”

Sherwood faced Damascus at home on Monday, January 13. Coming off a strong win against Paint Branch, Sherwood looked forward to starting off their three-game week with a win at home. The first half displayed the strengths and faults of both teams, as the Warriors led by only a few points.

Damascus however came out with a spark in the second half which eventually led them to taking a lead in the middle of the fourth quarter and finishing the game out strong, beating Sherwood 69 to 59.

Sherwood played Paint Branch at home on January 10. Sherwood came into the game looking to bounce back from their loss and did just that. The Warriors came out and played well on both sides of the ball, leading them to an 11-point lead at the half. After the half, the team continued their dominance throughout the game and won the game 78-57, with Major dropping 22 in the win.

“We got off to a hot start and played good defense the rest of the way,” said junior guard Stephen Billig on the game against Paint Branch. “Our shots were also falling, which hasn’t happened every game this season. If they fall like that, we have a good chance against any team we play this year.”

The previous night, Sherwood lost to Blair by nine points, 84-75. Prior to the game against Blair on January 9, Sherwood was on a winning streak, beating Whitman, Bladensburg, and Kennedy all by 10 points or more.

“We have high expectations for this years team,” said Coach Tom Sheahin, who is in his second season of being head coach for the Warriors. “Last year we won one playoff game. This year, our goal is to win our region. We will need to be more consistent on both offense and defense. We are hoping to get our team at full strength with various injuries and hope to be playing our best basketball in February.”

Sherwood will have played Blake on Wednesday and will play Clarksburg this Friday at 7:15 at home.