The freshman basketball team wrapped up its Christmas break holding a solid 10-2 record - the product of the resilience, grit, and growth they showcased over the final weeks of 2024. While this stretch included both dominant performances and intimidating challenges, it provided valuable lessons for the team.
The Flyers' post-trimester exam slate began on December 20 with a tough loss to the Stepinac Crusaders, 59-44. Chaminade's offense struggled to get going early, resulting in the Flyers trailing 16-4 at the end of the first quarter.
Despite a brief rally in the second stanza, Chaminade couldn't handle the Crusaders' offense and were unable to finish on a number of scoring opportunities. The loss highlighted areas in need of improvement, but the Flyers were determined to bounce back in their next game.
They got their chance the very next day, rebounding with an impressive 71-45 victory over the Holy Cross Knights.
Chaminade came out of the huddle ready, beginning the game on a 6-0 run and keeping pressure on Holy Cross throughout the affair. The team's defense was particularly impressive, forcing several turnovers and securing critical rebounds. The Flyers were equally relentless on offense, with the ball moving efficiently and key players contributing across the board. The win was a complete team effort, with team leaders Michael Minniti and Dean Caruso guiding the Flyers to a commanding victory.
In a tightly contested game two days after Christmas, the Flyers lost a nail-biter to Xaverian High School, 58-56. Chaminade started the game well, leading 11-10 after the first quarter, but found themselves struggling in the second half as the game remained close.
Despite staying within reach, the Flyers couldn't regain control of the game after falling behind, and questionable decision-making in the final minutes hurt their chances of completing a comeback.
Nonetheless, Chaminade did crawl back, cutting the deficit to two with 23 seconds remaining. They weren't able to finish the job, however, suffering their second loss in three games after opening the season with six consecutive victories.
Once again, however, the Flyers were able to bounce back in less than 24 hours, topping St. Francis Prep in the AAC the very next morning, 43-35.
In a gritty, physical battle, the Flyers' defense was suffocating, holding the Terriers to an average of fewer than nine points per quarter. Chaminade held a slim 12-9 lead after the first and continued to fend off Saint Francis Prep's attempts to close the gap before halftime.
By the third quarter, with the outcome still very much in question, the Flyers' consistent play on both ends of the court allowed them to finish strong. Benjamin Hristoforatos and Quinn Fernandez were key in making the Chaminade defense thrive, shutting down all opportunities for the Terriers.
Closing out the 2024 calendar, the Flyers topped Monsignor Farrell, 44-42, on December 30 in perhaps the most thrilling game over this stretch of schedule.
Chaminade started hot, building a commanding 13-point lead by halftime. However, the Lions mounted a strong comeback, and by the third quarter, the Flyers saw their lead dwindle.
Farrell took control for much of the period, but the Flyers' resilience was on full display when Lucas Dillon stepped up with key plays in the final minutes of the fourth quarter. Despite some costly turnovers and missed opportunities, Chaminade held on for a tight, exciting victory, highlighting their developing ability to respond in clutch situations.
Chaminade continued their winning ways into the new year when they faced off against Kellenberg on January 3, securing a 55-49 win in Uniondale.
Chaminade dominated early, jumping out to a 19-7 lead in the first quarter. The Flyers' defense was locked in, limiting Kellenberg's opportunities and forcing them into tough shots.
However, as the game progressed, the Flyers started to lose some of their edge offensively, allowing the Firebirds to slowly chip away at their deficit. Despite a few questionable calls and some defensive mistakes, Chaminade's composure in the final moments helped them seal the victory.
The Flyers' 10-2 record is evidence of both their growth and the challenges they have faced. After suffering early setbacks, they proved their resilience, bouncing back with impressive wins against teams like Holy Cross and Saint Francis Prep.
The team exhibited moments of brilliance, especially in terms of defense and team play, but also experienced growing pains, evidenced by struggles with foul management and inconsistent offensive execution.
Most players were generally pleased with the team's performance, but they offered a common refrain: "I'm glad with how it went, but we would have liked to win them all."
Now more than halfway through their regular-season schedule, the Flyers are left with just over a month to prepare for the weekend of February 8/9, when a league champion will be crowned at Kellenberg Memorial High School.
