Bunnell | CTHighSchoolSports

Masuk Triumphs in Nail-Biter Against Rival Bunnell: 57-53 Victory

1/17/24

Staff Writer

In an electrifying showdown last night, Masuk boys' basketball emerged victorious in a thrilling contest against their rivals, Bunnell High School, securing a narrow 57-53 win. The game proved to be a fierce battle, with no team claiming a quarter by more than 2 points, highlighting the intensity and closely matched skills of both squads.

Bunnell showcased their usual contributors, with Jordan Pierce delivering an impressive 14 points and Jordan Ricketts adding 10 points, relying on their athleticism to consistently attack the rim. Point guard Jayden Turnage also made a significant impact, contributing 13 points to Bunnell's efforts.

Masuk, on the other hand, experienced a standout performance from senior center Matt Domenichelli, who utilized his considerable size advantage to lead all scorers with a game-high 23 points. Despite the absence of sophomore sensation Tyler Newsom, senior Ethan Palma stepped up admirably, contributing 17 points, with 7 crucial points in the final period.

The consistent and composed play of sophomore Mitch DeBernardo provided Masuk with the stability they needed, as he hit critical shots in every quarter while navigating the relentless pressure from Bunnell's guards. Known for their disruptive defense, Bunnell's guards attempted to wear down opposing point guards, but DeBernardo held his own and limited turnovers against Coach Danny Powell's tenacious team.

In the absence of their star guard, Tyler Newsom, Masuk relied on the collective effort of their players to secure the victory. Ethan Palma's pivotal role off the bench, combined with the reliable scoring of Mitch DeBernardo and the dominant presence of Matt Domenichelli, proved instrumental in overcoming the challenges posed by Bunnell.

Jordan Pierce's late-game surge, with 8 points in the fourth quarter, aimed to close the gap for Bunnell, but Masuk's resilience and strategic play ultimately secured the win. As Masuk celebrates their hard-fought triumph, they now look ahead to future matchups with confidence, showcasing their depth and adaptability on the court.

Box Score:

|--------|-------------|-------------|-------------|-------------|-------|

| Masuk | 12 | 13 | 14 | 18 | 57 |

| Bunnell| 13 | 11 | 12 | 17 | 53 |

Bunnell Triumphs Over Greenwich in Bassick High School Holiday Tournament

12/28/23

Staff Writer

In a thrilling matchup on December 28, 2023, Bunnell High School's boys' basketball team secured a hard-fought victory against Greenwich in the Bassick High School Holiday Tournament. The final score of 66-61 reflected the intense competition and showcased Bunnell's resilience against Greenwich's size advantage.

From the opening quarter, Bunnell exhibited a blend of athleticism and speed that wore down the Greenwich players. Despite a close start, with Bunnell leading 15-11 after the first quarter, the dynamic play of Jordan Pierce, utilizing his strength, speed, and quickness, set the tone for the game. Greenwich's Connor Parks kept the game within reach with eight crucial points.

Jordan Pierce's impactful performance continued throughout the game, out rebounding taller players, creating fast break opportunities, and contributing 23 points. His clutch free throws in the closing moments proved pivotal in sealing the win for Bunnell. Teaming up with Pierce, Jordan Richetts showcased crafty drives and sharp three-point shooting, adding 15 points to Bunnell's offensive efforts.

Heading into halftime with a 32-27 lead, Bunnell's full-court man-to-man defense wore down Greenwich's guards. The deep bench of Bunnell allowed for consistent pressure, limiting Greenwich center Michael Golden to zero points despite his height advantage.

Point guard Jayden Turnage orchestrated the game for Bunnell, pushing the ball up the court and keeping Greenwich defenders on their heels. While Bunnell may not have shot particularly well, their volume of shots and defensive efforts contributed to their overall success.

Freshman Roddy Ricketts continued to impress with his ball-handling skills, willingness to find open teammates in transition, and ability to make tough shots at the rim, adding 7 crucial points to Bunnell's tally.

Connor Parks of Greenwich was a standout performer, putting up a game-high 28 points. His scoring efforts, particularly in the final period with 16 points, aimed to bring Greenwich back into contention.

By the end of the third quarter, Bunnell had extended their lead to 51-37, showcasing a dominant period. In the final stretch, despite Parks' late-game heroics and an 18-6 scoring run by Greenwich in the last four minutes, Jordan Pierce's leadership and Bunnell's collective efforts secured the 66-61 victory.

Box Score:

| Team | 1Q | 2Q | 3Q | 4Q | Final |

|------------------|----|----|----|----|-------|

| Bunnell | 15 | 17 | 19 | 15 | 66 |

| Greenwich | 11 | 16 | 10 | 24 | 61 |

Bunnell's triumph in the Bassick High School Holiday Tournament highlighted their depth, defensive prowess, and the tenacity of players like Jordan Pierce and Jordan Richetts. The exciting matchup left fans eagerly anticipating Bunnell's future performances and the continued growth of emerging talents like Roddy Ricketts.

Bunnell Boys Basketball Dominates Stratford in Convincing Victory

Staff Writer

In an electrifying matchup last night at Stratford High School, the Bunnell Boys Basketball team showcased their dominance with a resounding 68-47 victory over the Stratford squad. Bunnell's early lead suggested a potential runaway victory, reminiscent of their performance against Amistad a week ago. However, Stratford Coach Tim Swaller's halftime adjustments added intrigue to the game, resulting in a more evenly matched third quarter.

Jordan Ricketts emerged as the leading scorer of the night, putting up an impressive 19 points, including three successful three-pointers. Ricketts' scoring prowess played a pivotal role, contributing 11 crucial points during Bunnell's dominant first half. His offensive flair and strategic shooting set the tone for Bunnell's commanding performance.

Despite standing at less than 6 feet tall, Jaden Pierce asserted his dominance in the paint against Stratford. Pierce's strength and athleticism were on full display as he notched another double-double, tallying 15 points and securing 10+ rebounds. His performance under the basket proved instrumental in Bunnell's control of the game.

Adding to the team's depth, freshman standout Roddy Ricketts, the younger brother of Jordan, showcased his skills on the big stage, contributing 11 points. Roddy's presence on the court demonstrated his ability to compete at the varsity level, hinting at a promising future for the young talent.

Stratford's one shining light in this game was Nico Lubas, who scored a team-high 15 points. Lubas showcased his offensive prowess, providing Stratford with a crucial scoring boost.

One of the stars from Stratford's team last year, Elijah Lewis, has yet to find his rhythm with this new group. However, Coach Swaller remains confident that Lewis is up for the task and, once he finds his groove, will have a significant impact on the outcome of this season.

Bunnell Coach Danny Powell is optimistic about his team's future, noting that their young players are gaining valuable experience with significant minutes in both JV and varsity action. Powell anticipates a tremendous boost when Senior Michael Ricketts makes his return later this season. The addition of this third Ricketts to the squad may prove to be the most explosive of the family.

As the final buzzer sounded, Bunnell celebrated a well-deserved victory, highlighting their strengths as a formidable force in boys' high school basketball. The game served as a platform for individual standouts and promising young talent, setting the stage for an exciting journey for both teams in the upcoming games. 🏀💪

Bunnell Boys Basketball Sprints to Victory Against Amistad Academy

Staff Writer

In a high-octane showdown on the basketball court, the Bunnell boys' basketball team left no doubt about their determination and athleticism, running away with an impressive victory against Amistad Academy. The game was a fast-paced affair from start to finish, with Bunnell's guards, including Jayden Turnage and Jordan Ricketts, leading the charge and setting the tempo for the entire contest.

From the opening tip-off, Bunnell showcased their relentless style of play. Not content to merely push the pace on missed shots or turnovers, the team sprinted up the court even after made baskets, maintaining constant pressure on Amistad. The relentless pace took its toll on Amistad, despite their athleticism and decent size.

By halftime, Bunnell had built a commanding lead of 39-21. The aggressive defensive strategy implemented by Bunnell didn't necessarily result in a plethora of steals, but it forced Amistad into rushed and ill-advised shots, disrupting their offensive rhythm. Amistad struggled to keep up with the breakneck pace set by Bunnell, leading to a substantial halftime deficit.

Bunnell's Head Coach, Danny Powell, kept the pressure on in the second half. Leading scorer Jaden Pierce showcased his scoring prowess in transition, making tough shot after tough shot. Pierce's strength and stamina proved to be a significant factor, setting him apart from his counterparts on the Amistad team. Freshman Roddy Ricketts also made a significant impact, displaying maturity beyond his years by knocking down open three-pointers and contributing to the offensive flow.

Coach Powell's preseason notes about the team's hard work in the offseason were clearly not an exaggeration. The players' dedication in both the weight room and on the track was evident on the court, as they exhibited a level of fitness and speed that overwhelmed Amistad.

As the game progressed, Bunnell continued to extend their lead. By the end of the third quarter, they had built an impressive 27-point advantage, with Pierce closing out the quarter with a tough mid-range jumper that Amistad had no answer for throughout the night. The final score reflected Bunnell's dominance, securing a resounding 72-46 victory.

Bunnell's performance was not only a testament to their skill on the court but also to their disciplined and hardworking approach to the game. As the season unfolds, opponents will undoubtedly take note of Bunnell's speed, tenacity, and scoring prowess, making them a team to watch in the competitive world of high school basketball.

Bunnell High School Bulldogs: Hoops and Unity in the Pursuit of Excellence

Staff Writer

Bunnell High School's basketball squad is gearing up for an exciting season in Division 3 for the State Tournament and the South West Conference for league play. Led by key returning players Jordan Ricketts, Jordan Pierce, Michael Ricketts, Karell Brown, and Jayden Turnage, the team welcomes newcomers Brody Biggs, Roderick "Rody" Ricketts, and Antonio Boglio.

With eyes set on victory, the Bulldogs aim to conquer their division, secure the championship in the Christmas tournament, clinch the conference tournament, and emerge triumphant in the State Championships, all while maintaining a team GPA over 3.5.

The team's playing style is marked by an up-tempo approach, applying full-court pressure to create rapid offensive opportunities. As part of their strategy, they plan to introduce a smaller lineup to enhance quick scoring chances.

Notable rivalries with Stratford High School and Kolbe Cathedral add extra intensity to the matchups, and the Bulldogs are particularly eager to face Notre Dame of West Haven, a top-10 team in the state.

Player development has been a focus, with dedicated time in the weight room. Freshman standout, Rody Ricketts, is poised to make an immediate impact. Team chemistry is fostered through shared experiences both on and off the court, with the majority of the players also participating in football and bonding through team dinners, college game outings, and pizza parties. As the Bulldogs prepare for potential challenges like staying healthy, their regimen includes strength training, stretching, proper nutrition, and sufficient rest.

Engaging the community is a priority, with initiatives like free admission for local town and travel teams, clinics, and reading sessions at local elementary schools. The team emphasizes the importance of community support in keeping local talent within town schools. With a commitment to both on-court success and off-court community engagement, the Bunnell High School Bulldogs are ready to make waves in the upcoming basketball season.

Making Waves of Excellence: Bunnell and Stratford High School Boys' Swimming Team and Their Stellar Student-Athletes

Staff Writer

Bunnell and Stratford High School boys are making a splash in the pool as they unite for a co-op swimming team in the South-West Conference (SWC) and CIAC Class LL. Key returning swimmers, including Bunnell Junior Cesar Padilla and Stratford Seniors Ty Faerdy and Gabriel Rodriguez, are leading the charge alongside six noteworthy newcomers from various grades.

With a focus on sportsmanship, skill development, teamwork, competition, and fun, the team sets its sights on qualifying for SWC's and States, acknowledging the challenge of the tough Class LL. The team's style centers around intentional training and proper techniques to improve swim times and clinch victories.

Despite a tough season last year, the addition of new team members has fostered hope for success. While they may not have specific rivals, the goal this season is to secure a victory after narrowly losing to Barlow and New Fairfield last year. Swimmer development is evident with some swimmers joining swim clubs for added preparation. As a co-op team, the camaraderie and chemistry between Bunnell and Stratford players contribute to a positive training environment.

Challenges include the team's small size, prompting a focus on building endurance and refining techniques. The team encourages more fans in the stands, particularly for home meets at Flood Pool that run approximately an hour long. Off the court, team captains Gabriel Rodriguez, Ty Faerdy, and Cesar Padilla showcase remarkable achievements and community service, exemplifying excellence both in and out of the pool. With the first meet scheduled for Thursday, December 21, at 4:00 against Bethel/Barlow at Flood Middle School, the Bunnell - Stratford Boys Swimming team is poised for an exciting season, blending ambition, camaraderie, and a commitment to excellence.

The COOP Swimmer are not only a force to be reckoned with in the swimming pool, but they also shine in academic and community pursuits. The team's cohesiveness extends beyond sports, with players embodying excellence in various facets of life. Team captain Gabriel Rodriguez, a senior at Stratford High, serves as a lifeguard for the Sterling House Community Center. An honors student currently holding the top spot in his class, Rodriguez is involved in numerous honor societies, including the National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Math National Honor Society, and National Art Honor Society. His achievements extend to multiple Scholastic Awards for Excellence, recognition in various subjects, and active participation in the SWC Academic Team Conference. Rodriguez's commitment to community service is evident through his extensive volunteer work, earning him the Silver Sterling House Award and a nomination for the P.T. Barnum Festival Royal Family.

Joining Rodriguez in his commitment to excellence is Ty Faerdy, another senior and team captain from Stratford High. Faerdy, also a lifeguard for the Town of Stratford, brings four years of varsity experience in Boys Tennis. Demonstrating academic prowess, he consistently earns First Honors every semester, showcasing a dedication to both sports and studies.

Cesar Padilla, the junior and team captain from Bunnell High, serves as a lifeguard for the Town of Stratford and stands out as a Scholar Athlete for Connecticut Swimming. His achievements extend beyond the pool, with notable roles as Drum Major in the BHS Marching Band and Clarinet Player in previous years. Padilla has achieved recognition as a 4-time Regional Champion in Connecticut Swimming and a Top 16 finisher in the CT Swim 2.5K Open Water Championships.

These exemplary student-athletes not only bring their talent to the pool but also contribute significantly to the community and academic excellence, reflecting the well-rounded nature of the Stratford Athletes. Their achievements showcase the dedication and passion that the team brings to every aspect of their lives.**