Finley Boys’ Basketball-7 Finishes
on Winning Note
After losing its first seven games, the J. Taylor Finley Middle School seventh grade boys’ basketball team closed out it season with three consecutive victories.
Coached by Phil Lowe and captained by Jordan McCoy, Luke Luckow and Jack Stewart the 14-player Falcon squad compiled a 3-7 mark. “It was a tough, resilient team that developed as its confidence and skill level came together,” Lowe said. “Everyone played their respective roles when on the floor, which allowed us to compete as a team.”
Lowe said the top players included McCoy and Stewart, who played point guard for the Falcons and Luckow and Elian Pimentel, both of whom sparkled at guard. Jonah Anastos was impressive splitting time between the guard and forward positions.
Stewart was the team’s floor leader. He’s a tough defender; the best on the team,” Lowe said. “He penetrates the lane and can finish.”
McCoy displayed quick hands and feet along with the ability to penetrate the lane and a knack for playing tough defense. Luckow emerged as a very physical defensive presence. “He attacks the lane and has good feet and hands,” Lowe said.
Pimentel’s fine outside shot and methodical style of play buoyed Finley. Anastos was another tough defender who gets to the basketball quickly. He also showed a nice outside shot from a 10-12 foot range.
Finley also benefitted from the play of Ian Ardell, Eren Aydin, Jake Constabile, Bryce Criscuola, James Duffy, Michael McCooey, Jaheim Toney, John Tucker and Christopher Wright.
Finley topped Bellport (44-37), Lindenhurst (61-45) and Dawnwood (36-35). The Falcons dropped games to West Hollow (54-33 and 49-24), Candlewood (52-38 and 64-53), Bellport (41-40), Dawnwood (61-46) and Lindenhurst (37-28).
“Our victory over Dawnwood was a nail biter,” Lowe said about the highlight of the season. “The teams went back-and-forth up until the final seconds of the last period, but we held on for a one-point win.”