Varsity Basketball Battles for Redemption

The Hornets set up a play against Brooklyn Tech on Dec 13. *Photo: Christopher Deboer*

By DARREN NHU, ZEINA IBRAHIM, SILVIA FENG, and DAVID SAMPSON

The Boys Varsity Basketball Team got off to a rough start this year, but fighting tooth and nail, they’ve battled back to a 2-5 record.

After a heartbreaking two-point loss in their season opener against Paul Robeson on November 29, the team got their revenge when they played them again, this time on the Hornets’ home floor, taking the crown by a score of 53-49.

Midwood has been 2-2 at home so far, also defeating Sunset Park High School 56-52 on December 11 in their first home outing.

The game began in Midwood’s favor when Kobe Wang ‘24 set the tone with a three-pointer on the first possession.

“I felt like I was there to do my job,” Wang said. “And I was happy to help out the team the best I can.”

At half time, the score was 26-18, with Midwood holding a lead they would not relinquish. Darren Nhu ‘25 (one of this article’s authors) and Wang scored 15 points each.

Luke Walsh ‘24, point guard and team captain (as well as an Argus staff member), finished with 13 points, including 8 in the final quarter.

Although the Hornets had a rocky start, they’ve turned their losses into lessons and use them to grow and develop as a unit.

“We're disappointed in our record,” said Mr. Victor Gjecaj, the team's coach. “We feel like we should have a better record, but I have a great group of guys, and I know we're going to turn it around.”

Wang added that the team needs to work on their chemistry, rebounding, and being consistent.

The best practice the team has had so far, junior Samirkhon Bakaev said, was when four former varsity players came back to join in. During the game against Brooklyn Tech, other alumni also showed up to show support for the team, which meant a lot to the players.

One of the team's highlights has been their defense.

“Our defense definitely has good skills,” junior Charlie Gilbert said. “Especially our 1-3-1 trap defense, where we can easily get steals and fast break lay-ups.”

Another positive for the team is their shooting ability. “We’re a good shooting team, and that continues to be our strength, so we’re just gonna build on that,” said Mr. Gjecaj.

With unwavering determination, the team still aims to stage a comeback and top last season's 7-9 record. “Our biggest goal this year is to hopefully make the playoffs,” said Mr. Gjecaj.

“We have to play as a unit,” said Bakaev. “I want all of us, including me, to get better and get closer together as a unit. Once we develop as a group, we can win.”