A few days after Staples High School’s triple-overtime loss to West Haven in the state boys basketball Division I championship, emotions — excitement, heartbreak, pride — still linger.
The season was memorable in so many ways. The Wreckers went 26-1; they won their 2nd straight FCIAC (league) crown; they inspired our entire town.
Young fans, up late at Mohegan Sun. (Photo/Amanda Thaw)
A number of photographers were at Mohegan Sun Arena Saturday, capturing all the joy and agony of the title game.
Dave Dellinger shares the highs and lows of the back-and-forth contest:
One last huddle, before the opening tip.
Sam Clachko and Dhilan Lowman.
Staples fans react to Dhilan Lowman’s shot …
… and try to rattle a West Haven foul shooter …
… and keep cheering, all night long.
We got this …
… and we got you.
Austin Heyer on offense …
… and Drew Hill on defense.
Pure joy during the game …
… and sadness, at the end. (Photos/Dave Dellinger
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Ryan Allen was at Mohegan Sun too.
The Staples junior has an outstanding eye, for both the physical drama and the emotional intensity of sports. Here are a few of his images:
Staples senior Demeil Betfarhad offered a stirring rendition of the national anthem.
Sam Clachko earned a spot as one of the best basketball players in Staples history. He played in Mohegan Sun as a freshman, when the Wreckers reached the final of the Division II state tournament.
Dhilan Lowman fires.
Wrecker fans are all in.
“Oh yeah!” says Matty Corrigan.
Mason Tobias
Coach Dave Goldshore
The Wreckers gave it their all. (Photos/Ryan Allen)
Great photos of the team and a very impressive run. The nice thing is that unlike college sports with the transfer portal, other than graduating seniors there’s a good chance most of the players (and coach) will be back next season!