By ANDREW HAN
In a very special season opener dedicated to the memory of Martha Sammartano, Jericho’s varsity boys basketball team scored a big win over the defending Nassau County B champions, Carle Place. It was a fitting tribute to Ms. Sammartano, one of Jericho basketball’s biggest fans and beloved teacher.
Jericho students showed excitement and passion by showing up in the student section for this special game and supporting their team. The boys didn’t upset them and successfully secured the win with a score of 62-43. Second year varsity starter and center Dev Anne scored 22 points and 13 rebounds and became the highlight of the night.
The game started off slow and Carle Place was able to hold on tight throughout the first half. However, after the halftime break, Jericho came out fresh and soon had a 15 point lead. Dev explained what happened in the locker room to motivate the team. He said, “I think going to halftime we saw the mistakes we were making and how to fix them. Things like more pressing and halfcourt traps helped us get the lead.”
Additionally, Dev expressed the significance of his “faster first step” which according to him, helps him stand out among other centers. It enables him to blow by other centers his size with ease. In case the defender decides to back up, Dev is also a lethal shooter who can put the ball in the net from behind the three point line any time he wants.
Dev has matured mentally over the years. He said, “I think that in previous years I was more nervous about the games. But this year I am more excited and prepared for the games as I’ve been training for a couple of years now. I also think I worked really hard this summer to get where I am at right now.”
Perhaps Dev’s strongest motivation is the support from the fans. He said, “I think just seeing people cheer us on during the games and seeing the crowd being so active and loud during the games is the biggest factor for me.”
Photos by Jed Lin
Featured image by Alexandra Edelman