The boy’s Freshman, JV, and Varsity basketball teams all had extremely successful seasons this past winter. With the departure of key players on the Varsity team such as Robbie Fay, Dave Barletta, Seth Keller, and Scott Ferraro, there was an opportunity for young players to step up and have a significant role on the team. Those players included sophomores Tyler Curto, Kevin Haggerty, and Brian Joyce to go along with juniors such as Jordan Morang and Brian Sherman, and senior Kyle Kroeger, who were catalysts on this year’s team
Although the Varsity’s overall record (11-14) wasn’t outstanding, it is not indicative of the success they had and the potential they have in the years to come. With the likes of Jonathan Dayton, a Group 1 Championship finalist, Summit, and Governor Livingston on their schedule, there was reason to their sub-.500 record. Coach Cattano and the team should be very proud of what they accomplished, given the fact they battled with some outstanding teams. Unfortunately, the Varsity season ended with a heartbreaking loss in the first round of the state tournament against Dunellen.
In the most exciting game of the season, the Pioneers looked to avenge their loss from earlier in the year against the Highlanders of Governor Livingston. On Februrary 21, New Providence was locked in an extremely tight game. With the score deadlocked at 48 all, Sherman traveled the length of the court and hit a game winning shot with a few seconds to go. When G.L’s heave at the buzzer was unsuccessful, the Pioneers rejoiced.
Sherman stated after the monumental win: “Curtis Kyzima had the guide and he gave it to me and they had nine fouls, so I just drove to the basket hoping to get fouled and got lucky it went in.”
On the final game of the season, the seniors were honored on Senior Night for their arduous work and commitment over the past seasons. Those seniors included stat keeper Laura Lopez, Patrick Doran, and team captains Kroeger and Marchesano. Unfortunately, Marchesano was unable to play this season because of an injury, but his spirits and motivation were essential to the team’s success.