Coventry basketball in the home stretch of a strong season

Forward Tommy Myers drives for the basket during a Feb. 7 game between Coventry and Stafford. Photos by Melanie Savage.

The Stafford High School Bulldogs put up a strong fight against the Coventry High School Patriots the evening of Feb. 7, perhaps a stronger fight than expected, given the records of the two Division S teams. Coventry came into the match-up with a 13-3 record, in the midst of a five-game winning streak. The Bulldogs entered the game with a record of 9 and 7.

The Bulldogs maintained a slight lead for much of the game, and were ahead going into the half. Coventry regained the lead during the second half, and moved ahead with a score of 63-62 with just a minute left on the clock. But a Stafford three-pointer in the final seconds put the Patriots down by one point, with a score of 63-65. The Patriots called a time-out with seconds on the clock. A cross-court pass from beneath the Stafford basket found its mark in Coventry forward Tommy Myers. But the Stafford defense was ready, and Myers had difficulty finding his opportunity. He let go of a shot at the buzzer that bounced off the rim, ending the Patriots’ winning streak with a final score of 63-65, Stafford.

As of Feb. 11, Coventry ranked number six in Division S, with three games to go in the regular season. Senior Tommy Myers, who will play football for UConn next year, has been a top scorer for Coventry this year. According to the casciac.org website, he currently ranks number six statewide for scoring, and number one for rebounds. Fellow senor Nicolai Vanek currently ranks number one for three-pointers. Other seniors on this year’s team are Tyler Noske and Austin Ives.