On Tuesday, Jan. 27, the Archie Williams boys’ basketball team took on the Novato Hornets at home. The 15-6 Falcons easily defeated the 0-22 Hornets with a final score of 87-42. The game featured an impressive halftime performance by Archie Williams’ Dance Troupe, which included well over 100 children from the Archie Williams community.
The Falcons had a strong first quarter, despite a slow start. Seniors James Butler and Grady Stewart solidified the Falcons’ early lead in the first quarter, ending the quarter with a score of 24-9.
“I think the first quarter, we came out pretty slow. But otherwise, we continued to play well [throughout the game], move the ball and make shots, and we ended up ahead by 30-40 points by the fourth quarter,” said senior Gabe Cerio
While it took a minute for the team to get into an offensive rhythm, they cemented the foundation for the rest of the game in the first quarter. Head Coach Mike Clagett felt the team was able to bounce back from their slow start due to a series of crucial plays.
“I think we started slow the first two and a half minutes, we had three dunks in the first four or five minutes, so I think that picked up the pace, and our defensive intensity ramped up,” said Clagett.
The second quarter had a much better turnout for Archie Williams. The Falcons showed consistent offensive production from key players James and Gabe, scoring on consecutive plays. The second quarter ended with a score of 52-20.
“We had a season high, 12 different players scored [tonight], so I’m proud of the effort,” said Clagett.
During halftime, Dance Troupe’s performance began with a special performance featuring over 100 kids dancing alongside them. It was a heartwarming moment that led everyone in the crowd to pull out their phones and celebrate the moment. After the children’s performance, the Dance Troupe performed their own routine.
The crowd was full of energy after the halftime performance from Dance Troupe, and the atmosphere contributed to the Falcons’ performance in the fourth quarter. The third quarter ended 74-34 after some explosive gameplay from both sides.
Archie Williams came out on top at home with a final score of 87-42.
“We were a big favorite in this game against an underdog opponent,” said senior Devin Moss.
The Falcons’ next game is an away game at Redwood High School on Friday, Jan. 30, at 7:30 p.m.
