Chargers ground Falcons in basketball opener

In the opening game of the 2021-2022 basketball season, the Chargers hosted the aggressive 3A #1 Millwood Falcons. Heritage Hall had a lot of pressure on them coming into this game as the Falcons were predicted to be a front runner in the 3A State Championship, largely due to their phenomenal freshman Jaden Nickens. Nickens is a well-rounded player, but the Falcons also return streaky scorer Ricky Hunt.

From the tip-off, the Falcons put a lot of pressure on the Chargers with intense defense. The visiting team was able to contest many shots making it hard for the Chargers to score. Meanwhile, they were also able to make many easy buckets after repeated early turnovers by The Hall.

In the second quarter, the Chargers turned things around. Key players Sebastian Perry and experienced point guard Ethan Franks began offensively outshining the Falcons to put Heritage Hall back in the game. Many of our other players followed their leaders, and began playing to their full potential. Sophomore guard Rashaud Smith knocked down some key shots to give his squad the edge over the Millwood Falcons.

The remarkable Sebastian Perry was the most outstanding player in the game as he consistently converted tough shots while keeping his teammates in the game. His most crucial points in this competitive game were the two free-throws he was able to sink with 20.6 seconds on the clock to regain a one-point lead for The Hall.

In crunch time, Millwood made a final trip down the court with full intentions to knock down a shot and get a win. Defended well by Austin Lemon, Hunt was forced to shoot a very deep and contested three and missed. Rashaud Smith was able to track down the long rebound and dribble down the court to run off the final seconds in a hard-earned victory.

Perry was named ChargerVision's Seth Wadley Power Promise Player of the Game and he deserved it. In addition to knocking down a late three-pointer, the junior guard took over the game and scored 26 points, grabbed 5 rebounds, and dished out 2 assists. Franks scored 6 points and pulled down 5 boards, while Rashaud Smith scored 5.

Written by Marion Dean '24

Photos by Joshua Cleary / Instagram @jrc.media

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