By Audrey Schiek
Contributing Writer
PREBLE HIGH SCHOOL – In a hard-fought playoff showdown of the Fox River Classic Conference between Preble and Green Bay East boys’ basketball teams, Preble emerged on top with a commanding performance, securing a noteworthy win.
From the opening moments, it was clear that both teams were feeling the pressure of the playoff atmosphere. Green Bay East started strong with a swished three-pointer, but Preble quickly responded with a relentless fast-break offense, outscoring their opponents by ten points in the early minutes. Preble’s speed and efficiency in transition became a lethal weapon while the Red Devils struggled to find an offensive rhythm against Preble’s suffocating defense.
Despite a technical foul giving Green Bay East an easy two points, Preble maintained a comfortable lead throughout the first half, capitalizing on turnovers and fast-break opportunities. Green Bay East found themselves trapped in the corners of the court, unable to break free from Preble’s full-court defensive pressure.
The match heated up in the last few minutes, with both teams drilling several points in an attempt to define the score before the half. Green Bay East specifically had an impressive offensive surge, showing their resilience amidst the pressure of the Hornets.
“We’ve gotten so much better from day one,” says Preble Head Coach Rick Rosinski, “That’s what I’m proud of: the progression of the kids to get better.”
Preble held a commanding lead of 50-21 at half-time, with contributions from across their roster, including solid performances from the bench. Green Bay East showed flashes of sound offensive execution, particularly from Gregory Denny, who ended the half with five three-pointers for a total of 17 points. However, the Red Devils struggled to chip away at Preble’s lead.
Both teams continued to battle fiercely in the second half, with fouls scaling on both sides. Preble executed well-designed plays, resulting in easy buckets for the Hornets and a maintained lead as the game progressed. Despite the Red Devils’s efforts, including extensive foul trouble for both teams, the gap remained insurmountable.
Green Bay East’s efforts in the second half were evident, as they held the Hornets to 33 points compared to 50 in the first half.
“The boys played hard. Even though we turned the ball over, they don’t give up,” Head Coach James Devault of Green Bay East comments, “They play with heart, and they play with good energy.”
As the final buzzer sounded, Preble emerged victorious with a final score of 83-47, showcasing their dominance on both ends of the court. With this solid win, Preble advances in the playoffs, leaving Green Bay East to reflect on their season with pride despite the loss.
“We got a good group of kids, win or lose, we joke around, we have fun, so I think that’s the most gratifying thing about everything,” comments Coach Rosinski on the win.
Preble will play this Friday, Mar. 1, at De Pere.