45°
Confusion with paperwork left the Stamford High School boys basketball team without star point guard and fifth-year senior Jakai Wilson in its season opener. While the Black Knights awaited a CIAC ruling on Wilson's eligibility, a number of new faces stepped up to help rout Fairfield Warde, 52-28.
"Losing your point guard is like losing your quarterback," Stamford head coach Jim Moriarty said. "For the first game of the year, the chemistry was not right. Offensively we played well in the first quarter, but we got very sloppy after that. We're lucky we did well in the beginning."
Stamford benefited from poor shooting on the Warde side, holding the Mustangs to just two points in the first quarter. After building a 29-14 halftime lead, Stamford could have cruised the rest of the way, but Moriarty tried to keep the fire going. The Black Knights employed a full-court press the entire game, even when it was well in hand.
Stamford's trademark defense was up to par, which made up for a sloppy offensive showing. Both teams missed 11 shots in a row in the third quarter, prompting wholesale substitutions from Moriarty for the fourth quarter.
In his first high school game, Danny Turkvan had a game-high 15 points for the Black Knights. Luis Brittder added 13 points, 12 of which came in the first half. Anthony Davis rounded out Stamfords scoring with nine points.
Moriarty was informed less than a week ago that Wilson is currently ineligible to play. Jakai and his twin brother, Jakay, missed their freshman year of high school when their mother suddenly passed away. Jakay is eligible to play, but Jakai is not on a technicality. Moriarty said he is confident the CIAC will rule favorably on the 22nd.
Stamfords young team will be tested in its home opener against Brien McMahon High School Friday at 7 p.m.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Stamford and receive free news updates.
