CUYAHOGA FALLS, Ohio- The parking lots of Walsh High School were filled up on the first night of December as Highland and Walsh fans filled the arena. Walsh did not disappoint their home crowd in their season opener coming away with a 61-54 victory over the Hornets.
Coach Joe Wojcik got his first victory as a head coach of the Walsh Jesuits basketball team in the very first game. The expectations for this team are high. The matchup between Highland and Walsh featured two players who were listed as players to watch in the Akron area by Ohio.com. Hunter Winston of Highland and Tyler Bell of Walsh went head to head all night leading their respective teams. Hunter Winston scored 19 points while tallying four threes and shooting 50% from the stripe. Tyler Bell scored 15 points tallying a single three pointer all night and went 66% from the stripe.
“I feel good about the game. Going into the game we knew they were gonna be a tough team, Hunter Winston is a great player.” Tyler Bell said, “Just a few things I need to clean up and take care of the ball better, I didn’t control the ball well down the stretch but we got the job done in the end.”
Walsh played a great defensive game all game. The offense of both teams had amazing ball movement all game, especially the first half. Walsh was able to get more shots to fall taking a 34-25 lead at halftime.
The Hornets pushed for a comeback the entire second half. The second half showcased the Jesuits resilience as they overcame multiple costly turnovers that led to multiple three pointers to help Highland close the score gap. Highland had to play the foul game in the end and Walsh took full advantage, converting 9 of 10 shots at the foul stripe in those final minutes of the game to put away the opening night victory.
The Highland Hornets next game will be next Friday December 8th at Kent Roosevelt. Tip Off will take place at 7:30 p.m. The Walsh Jesuits next game will be at home on Tuesday, December 5th vs the Stow Munroe Falls Bulldogs. Tip Off will take place at 7 p.m.