The boys basketball team defeated Norwin on Friday, 58 – 32, for the Highlanders’ third win in a row.
Junior Nathan Wesling credited the team’s intensity for the win.
“We just played a lot harder than them and a lot more physical,” Wesling said. “We also shot well.”
Though Baldwin can no longer win the section, a home playoff start is certainly within reach.
“If we win out the next three games, we’ll have the number two seed and a home playoff game,” Wesling said.
Though the team has shined on offense, Wesling highlights its defensive talents.
“We’ve definitely progressed as a defensive team. I think that’s huge. You obviously have to be able to score, but defense is key,” he said.
According to Wesling, sophomore Max Marzina is the keystone of the defensive unit. And now that the team is pushing for a home playoff game, this defensive dominance is critical.
With regards to Head Coach Jeff Ackerman’s priorities leading into the playoffs, Wesling noted the coach’s focus on mental toughness.
“Focus and intensity have been major. You play how you practice, so we’ve been working on our intensity in practice.” Wesling said. “And last year is definitely a source of motivation. If we had beaten Central Catholic, we could have gone all the way.”
The team currently sits at 15-4, with a playoff spot clinched. Still, the team has faced some challenges.
“Rebounding has been a struggle for us. We need to work on that, and we are working on it,” Wesling said.
Baldwin’s next opponent is Hempfield away on Tuesday. The next home opponent is Upper Saint Clair on Friday. The location and opponent for the team’s first playoff bout is undetermined.
