As the buzzer sounds to begin the game, sophomore Caden Mont passes the ball to sophomore Jesse Fisher within less than 10 seconds of tipoff, securing a clean three-pointer. This would be just the start of JV boys basketball’s ruthless coordination and agility during Dec. 11’s matchup against Burke, winning by nearly 60 points.
JDS beat Burke 81-22 at home on Monday. They were led in points by Fisher, who scored 17 points and led in assists by junior Ezra Raskin with four. This win was especially appreciated after last week’s tough 47-70 loss to Sandy Spring and puts them at a record of 2-2 for the season and 2-1 in the league.
“Anytime you come off a loss like we took last week, and Sandy Spring was consistently one of the best teams in our league, you’re gonna want to come out with something to prove,” assistant coach Matthew Jacobson said. “… [We] came out with our hair on fire and took care of business.”
The Lions began the match with a lead of 29-4, starting the quarter with 14 unanswered points. The team was able to make 10 steals, three of which were from Raskin who also went two for two from the free-throw line. Fisher remained hot throughout the quarter and finished it with 15 points.
“I think I helped my team get off to a good start in the first half.” Fisher said. “I think I put points up on the board when I needed to. I think that’s what helped us get the win.”
The Lions cooled down slightly during the second quarter and finished the half leading 52-9. Rattner’s eight points highlighted the second quarter. He had three excellent contested finishes to go along with two steals.
During the third quarter, junior Benji Kushner, who missed the first four games of the season, came into the game to the sound of thundering applause. He satisfied the crowd immediately with an assist after only one minute. The Lions finished the quarter up 63-14 and with a win in sight.
In the fourth quarter, the Lions eased up and just had fun playing. There were sounds of laughter from the bench and the whole gymnasium was in a good mood. Loud cheers were heard when freshman Aviv Stein, who struggled with a 0 for 4 performance from the field during the third quarter, made two skillful shots to close out the win. The Lions showed good sportsmanship by just holding the ball as time ran out.
“I’m just happy that everyone contributed, everyone played strong and everyone gave it their all,” Mont said.
