AGAWAM – The offseason lasted much longer than anyone could have anticipated, but Monday night’s high school basketball season opener was worth the wait for the Westfield Bombers.
Westfield outlasted Agawam 45-42 Monday night to begin the COVID-shortened 2021 season. Brian Strange led the the Bombers attack with 12 points, including a key 3-pointer in the fourth quarter.
Nick Anciello and David Tirrell scored eight apiece for Westfield (1-0), which got off to a strong start. The Bombers opened the game with a 14-5 run.
Westfield’s Derien Wilson-Grant finished with seven points. Thomas Arcelaschi led all scorers with 16 points. Arcelaschi converted two second quarter 3’s.
Westfield returns to action Thurs., Jan. 28 when the Bombers will hold their home opener against the West Springfield Terriers at 7 p.m.
GIRLS BASKETBALL
Goodreau sisters’ good evening
St. Mary’s 21, Pioneer Valley Chinese Immersion Charter School 7
St. Mary’s pitched a first quarter shutout and led 11-1 at halftime en route to a suffocating effort against PVCICS.
The Goodreau sisters, Ali and Emma combined for 16 of the team’s 21 points. Ali scored a game-high 10 points. Emma had six.
Both teams struggled to score in the first period until Kailyn Cabrini came off the bench to score a fast break layup.
St. Mary’s senior Paighton Ramos (3 points) was aggressive all night long, playing solid defense before fouling out in the fourth quarter. Saints’ freshmen Macey Woodger, Paige Hutkoski, and Lillian Nadler also delivered stellar defensive efforts, combining for 10-plus rebounds and helping their team with multiple second-chance shots.
St. Mary’s was scheduled to play PVCICS again at home on Tues., Jan. 26.
