By The TimesLedger
Bantam Division
Metro Interior Contracting defeated VFW Post #4784 by 10 points, as Joseph Shade, a new addition to Metro Interior, continued to be a strong presence inside. Logan Frankel and Aris Santis contributed most of Metro's points with Mike Gallagher and Steven Foley adding to the win with their hustle. Metro Interior's record is now 3-5.
In a tight defensive struggle, Varsi Deli withstood a late charge from Carvel to post a 19-14 victory. Chris Kekovski’s nine points led Varsi’s offense, while Patrick Berndt and Billy Brady added three and two points, respectively. Louis Kabatnik’s rebounding and Kenny Lehr’s playmaking helped Varsi maintain the lead, while Dennis Brennan’s hustle led to several key turnovers for Varsi that led to the win. For Carvel, Chris Garthright directed the offense with seven points, Daniel Santuefemia added three and Anthony Merkle had four.
Varsi Deli continued their winning streak with their best team effort of the season, posting a 21-15 win over Napa & Sonoma. Patrick Berndt’s 11 points and fine two-way effort led the way, while Kenny Lehr popped for six points and continued to lead Varsi’s ball-hawking defense. Louis Kabatnik (two) Manny Barcena and Dennis Brennan continued their great work off the glass, while Chris Kekovski's (two) late steals helped to seal the win. For Napa & Sonoma, Mark McClean had six points on several long jumpers and Steven Mare and Derek Lamacchia had five and four points, respectively.
Minor Division
Cosmo Maintenance held off a strong second half charge by Donnelly Home for Adults to register a 50-47 win. Cosmo jumped out to a 15-point first half lead, but Donnelly refused to quit and fought back to get within three in the second half, with several chances to take the lead. Cosmo held on for the win, however, led by a superb all-around effort by Jose Barcena with 25 points. Michael Berndt added 15, many coming on strong drives to the hoop as he directed his team's offense. Andrew Lehr’s eight points and strong rebounding helped seal the victory, while Sebastian Grazziani (two) and Brendan Corrigan continued their fine defensive work. Donnelly was led by Jim Brady with 11 points, Brian Campbell (10), Joey Romano (7) and Wesley Cuevas(4).
Cosmo Maintenance continued their strong play with a hard-fought 35-26 win over first place Cherry Valley Deli. Cosmo’s balanced scoring attack was led by Michael Berndt with 11, Jose Barcena (11), Hilal Picovsky (eight), Andrew Lehr (two) and Sebastian Grazziani (two). Joseph Lumley’s rebounding and Brendan Corrigan’s hustle each contributed to what was a great team effort. Cherry Valley was led by Joe Likul with 17 points, Justin Finkelman (six) and Danny Munoz (two).
With their highest scoring output of the season, Baschnagel Bros. Roofing defeated Donnelly Home for Adults, 60-43. Down by 10 points halfway through the third quarter, Baschnagel came back behind the explosive scoring of Edward Johnston, who finished with a team-high 30 points. Strong offense was also contributed by Emmanuel Alvarez with 12 points and Adam Breidbart and Paul Roedel with six points a piece. The strong defensive play of Constantine Bakalis and Scott Seminerio were also instrumental to the victory. Donnelly was led by the strong play of Jim Brady, Frank Esposito and Joey Romano
Girls Division
Verdi’s defeated Lee’s Jewel Box, 24-19, despite a great effort by Lee’s Carmen Mateo, Lacey Losgar and Tanya Kozakis. Newcomers Megan Latham and Tatiana Celcis contributed to the team win with rebounding, scoring and free throws. Sarah Smith played a great defensive game and Michelle Kuzniewski continued with her strong rebounding to add to the win.
Major Division
Blue Ribbon Travel defeated Graham Restoration in an exciting overtime thriller. Blue Ribbon’s front line of Tommy Vouvoudakis, Max Malakh and Kevin Fuchs is as tough as any in the league. The guard play of Zachary Frankel, Milan Pinkus, Phil Leist and John Sifiris has been exceptional. Blue Ribbon is presently 7-1, playing unselfish, smart basketball.
