West earned their sixth consecutive win this season behind a stout defensive outing and flashy offensive play. With a strong student section and an even stronger team, the boys’ basketball team took down Waterloo West 53-32. 

Gallery • 15 Photos

Alyssa Skala

Ben Vanderleest '20 plays aggressive offense against Waterloo West.

Belmont commit Evan Brauns ‘20 led the team in scoring with 19 points, improving on his impressive 15.3 ppg average. Brauns kept the crowd entertained with various dunks and turnaround layups throughout the contest. Fellow senior Joe Goodman played strong and aggressive offense throughout the game, finishing with seven points and six assists.

Agile sophomore Christian Barnes wowed the crowd with quick and aggressive defense, including an impressive pick-pocket on Wahawk point guard Daquavion Walker ’20. WSS Athlete of the week Tate Crane ‘20 played with vigor on both sides of the court, protecting the ball and swiftly passing to his teammates. 

Class 4A No. 2 Waterloo West Wahawks played respectable defense and put up a strong fight throughout the game, but simply couldn’t compete with the Trojans defense, scoring eight points at halftime. Walker scored 13 points in the second half, boosting their score but not allowing for any comeback.

It wouldn’t be an exciting game without halftime entertainment, even more enjoyable acknowledging West was up 24-8 at the end of the second quarter. The West High cheerleaders showcased a piece with elementary students from various schools who participated in their cheer clinic. The West High Varsity Poms also performed their Nationals routine, with the poms competition starting on January 31st in Orlando. 

With injured player Marcus Morgan ‘21 expected to return next week, the team will be practically unstoppable as they look to return to the state meet for the ninth consecutive season. The boys will be back and ready as ever as they face their across the town rivals this Friday, January 24th, away at Liberty High School.