Boys Varsity Team Wins Sectional Basketball Title
Following a slow start during which the Tigers trailed the Raiders by double digits, Tuckahoe’s boys varsity basketball players rallied to defeat the Elmsford team and were crowned the Section 1 Class C champions.
It was a blockbuster final as Tuckahoe High School, the top seed, took on defending champion Alexander Hamilton High School at Pace University on Feb. 23. After a competitive and hard-fought game, the Tigers won 59-45 and secured the Sectional trophy.
“I do not have enough kind words to say about these young men,” said Coach Ben Newman. “When they are successful, they are successful together and when they fail, they fail together… They understand that teamwork is not about what one member does on their own, but what they bring to the court as individuals to make the team better as a whole.”
The Tigers currently boast a 16-6 record for the winter season, which catapulted the team to its first Section championship win since 2012. Junior Jonathan Berger was named to the All-Tournament Team, while sophomore Mekhi Clark was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.
“I’m speechless… I’m proud of my teammates and of myself,” said Mekhi, who was the game’s leading scorer with 22 points.
The camaraderie and solidarity were evident as Jonathan commented that his teammates wanted to help captain and senior Malik Moore graduate with a Section championship title. During the trophy ceremony, Coach Newman relinquished the honor typically bestowed upon the head coach to Malik and implored him to receive the golden trophy ball from the official on behalf of the team.
Several of the players noted that encouragement from Tuckahoe residents played a large role in their win. The on-site crowd was loud and cheered for the Tigers throughout the game with passion.
“The community support was incredible,” said Mr. Goldberg. “Having that support at games turns a neutral site into a home game, which is a big bonus for our athletes.”
Tuckahoe’s boys varsity basketball team will next play on March 4 at Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh at 7:30 p.m. The Tigers will play against Millbrook High School.
