After a 38 point loss to a daunting Northfield Mount Herman team last Friday, Andover’s record fell to 7-9 on the season. Since NMH was at one point the top team in the entire league, the loss was not that much of a surprise. “It was just surreal how good they were,” Coach Leon Modeste said. “They were so much better than us.” The far superior competition was not an excuse for Andover’s play, however. There was not much Andover could do any better against this team that usually plays under college rules because of their skill level. Co-captain Menelik Washington ’09 said that “[NMH] is a team full of Division 1 recruits so there wasn’t much to be done. However, we do need to work on our transition defense still.” Either way, the team suffered their second straight loss 102-64, the most points Andover has allowed so far this season. It didn’t help that both captains for Andover were unable to play in Friday’s game, as Brian Russell ’09 was out with an illness and Washington was out with an injury. Andover is looking to move forward though, with four games left and its slim playoff chances still alive. Andover needs to win three out of the next four games in order still be in contention for a playoff spot. It will be tough to compete for that last playoff spot, as the teams that they have left to play on their schedule have proven to be challenging in the past. Andover plays Brooks, Brimmer & May, Deerfield, and Exeter to finish out the season. “The best way to get back on track is if the team works together and everyone goes hard,” said Kevin Paul ’10. He continued, “Everyone needs to give 100% every day.” When asked if the team would be mentally drained or feel down about the two straight losses going into the final stretch of the season, Modeste said, “They won’t get down at all. The leaders on our team, the seniors, and PG’s know that these are possibly their last games of competitive basketball ever, so they want it badly.” Players also added that it might have actually been good to play a great team like Northfield Mount Herman, because it could show the kids how much hard work it takes to be great. As practices continue for Boys Basketball, they will look forward and prepare for the road ahead.
