The once vibrant cheers from the crowd hushed to a suspenseful silence as sophomore Jake Russel masterfully navigated the ball across the back court. A strategic pass to junior captain Tyshawn Pearson carved out the much-needed space, setting the stage for a game-changing play. The ball arced gracefully past Monroe defenders, finding its way to junior Enzo Ferrero. As it left Ferrero’s hands, the shot seemed destined to narrowly miss the basket. Then, in a split second, senior captain Shane Sheehan emerged from thin air, in an impressive dunk over Monroe defenders. This display of skill and coordination is the type of teamwork Westfield has been trying to build all season, projecting through.
Teamwork was the name of the game for Westfield today as they were able to secure the win 51-37 over Monroe.
Only a few minutes into the game, Russell took a shot and off the rim, junior Zach Epp went up and spiked the ball in. Teamwork.
Third quarter, Ferrero lobbed up a pass, setting Sheehan up perfectly for a dunk. Teamwork.
“I think we moved the ball pretty well. We came out with a lot of energy which led to kind of a run in the first half and we kind of just maintained it throughout the game,” said Epp. Teamwork.
With an early lead secured from both Epp and a few points from Tyshawn Pearson, Westfield established their power in just the first few minutes. At the end of the first half, the scoreboard read, 17-9, Westfield.
Teamwork was not just an offensive mindset.
An aggressive defense, recording numerous picked-off passes and layup blocks, was a defining factor for Westfield’s success. With communication from coaches and teammates on the sideline, Westfield was also able to switch from man-to-man to different types of zone, working like puppetry together as one.
“It’s been a focus for a long time now. So it’s just it’s more gelling together and at the right time, you know. We pressure the ball well, and I think we did get to do a lot of different defenses today to kind of find our way, but the kids bought in,” said McKeon.
Winning six out of their last eight games, it seems to be the time for Westfield to emerge as a powerhouse going into the UCT and the North 2, Group 4 NJSIAA Sectional Tournament. “So we’re doing the right thing. Moving forward, hopefully we’re getting hot at the right time,” said McKeon.
Coming out of the locker room after halftime, the Blue Devils had the confidence from the first half under their belts. They used the momentum to their advantage, continuing to incorporate quick passing and agile footwork. The defensive pressure from Westfield gave Monroe a hard time making shots and putting points on the board.
In a quiet gym where coaches were whispering their game plans to players during timeouts, the buildup of a Westfield chant echoed. Children’s voices, cheering for their mentors, taunted the Falcons as they made their way back to the court, down nearly 20 points.
The rest of the game was harmonious with the start. Although Monroe outscored Westfield in the last minutes, the Blue Devils were able to utilize all the players on their bench and seal the win, 51-37.
Monroe marked the last regular season game before the UCT. The game put Westfield’s record over-the-edge heading in, taking a 11-10 record in regular season matchups so far.
Going into the UCT and sectional tournament, Westfield players are optimistic. “We are on a little bit of a run, the team is starting to play better as a team so just carry that into the state tournament,” said Epp. Sheehan had a similar goal in mind, saying, “I think we’re just trying to keep the same level of confidence and aggression every game and just treat every team you know, as the best team.”
Pearson, on the other hand, was more direct with what he plans to accomplish in the tournaments. He commented,“A ring,” confidence oozing from his tone.
Westfield will take on Roselle at home today for their first round of the UCT, planning to work together and hoping to make it one step closer to the championship.
Westfield will take on Roselle at home today for their first round of the Union County Tournament, planning to work together and hoping to make it one step closer to the championship.
