They’re very skillful, insanely quick, truly unselfish, and quite well coached.
The Staples High School boys basketball team is also one of the most fun groups I’ve ever watched.
In any sport. Anywhere.
Basketball might be the ultimate fan’s game. Inches from the floor — with no helmets, masks or pads — every athlete’s every emotion is on full display.
Spectators hear each command given. Swiveling their heads back and forth in a small, packed gym, following each pass, shot and rebound, they’re as much a part of the action as athletes.
Four quarters zip past. And — this season for sure, the Wreckers nearly always win.
“06880” photographer Ryan Allen captures all of that perfectly. (And note: He’s just a sophomore).
He was there last week, as Staples continued their surge with a 73-50 demolition of a solid Fairfield Warde team.
Scroll down to feel the electric atmosphere that (and every) night.
And make plans to be at Staples on Tuesday night (February 4). The Wreckers host Fairfield Ludlowe. Tipoff is 7 p.m.
Huddling up before the game.
Head coach Dave Goldshore gives final pre-game instructions.
Sam Clachko. Three games earlier, he scored his 1,000th point. And he’s still a junior.
Austin Heyer gets set.
Charlie Bowman, surrounded by 3 Mustangs.
Staples graduate and longtime basketball supporter Dylan Curran joins a time-out huddle.
Wrecker fans give full-throated support …
… and high-five the middle school winner of the half-time shooting competition.
“Gimme an ‘S’!”
The bench is behind — literally and figuratively — Dhilan Lowman.
Adam Udell, with the layup. (All photos/Ryan Allen)
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