This was supposed to be a standard game coverage article, but after watching the varsity boys basketball team play West Aurora on Feb. 26, I realized that their final game deserved more of a tribute. Though the Mustangs lost 54-47, their season, as well as the careers of multiple senior players, ended on a powerful note. So, yes, this “recap” will hold bias, but I don’t think impartial statistics are what matter on the court: more important is doing a team justice for their hard-fought season.

The game began with a rather unorthodox start as a referee was hit in the head during the jump ball. Both teams recovered quickly, and routine play began. The Mustang seniors proved to be standout players as they poured years of sweat and experience into four short quarters.

“It’s my fourth year, and this is their fourth year,” head coach Zach Miller said. “They’re gonna mean everything, and it’s going to be hard not seeing those guys around, and I think that’s more than anything else.”

Senior Wyatt Wawro had a strong offensive performance, scoring six times throughout the game. Warwo was dominant on the perimeter and helped create passing momentum for other players to score. He showed consistent hustle, especially when he ran down the court to save a loose ball from going out of bounds and setting DGS up for another possession.

On the defensive end, senior Daniel Sveiteris was a formidable obstacle as he forced two turnovers by the opposing team. With multiple points, rebounds and assists to round out the night, Sveiteris was a key component in the match-up.

Senior Keon Maggit was also impressive on the court. He blocked a West Aurora pass early on and had three steals. Maggit accumulated four points while demonstrating speed and resilience until the clock ran out.

When he came into the game, senior Andrew Waterman commanded the team offensively. After receiving a pass from Warwo, Waterman made a three-point shot that had the gym erupting. A leader on the team, Waterman showed up when it mattered most and revived the energy of his teammates with that concise shot.

Senior Daniel Laurich also had a sizable impact at the rim; he fought to the boards in order to secure several rebounds. Laurich capitalized on this success by putting up many layups and a three-point shot.

Juniors Adam Flowers, Sean Day and Erik Vagonis played well and set the tone for the team as they build towards next season and the future of the basketball program.

“[I’m most proud of] the fight that they had. These guys always responded, they always kept swinging. They showed up every day, good, bad, whatever mood I was in, they showed up,” Miller said.