Seahawks drop back-to-back contests to start season

A sluggish start for the Sussex Academy boys’ basketball team in the season opener against Sussex Tech led to the Ravens soaring above the Seahawks 64-43 Dec. 4.

The hosts made the path to victory easier with an 18-7 lead after the opening eight minutes, and a 29-13 edge by halftime. It was the little things that added up, such as execution and attention to detail, according to Sussex Academy coach Brad Leinbach. 

“The young core has made an obvious jump from last season in this area, but it still lacks,” he said. “Slow starts and missed assignments still plague us early and often. This starts in practice, and we will continue to improve practice habits and preparation.”

The second half was a completely different game, but Sussex Tech still won each quarter en route to their 64-43 victory. Senior Kenton James led the Ravens with a game-high 24 points, while junior Kahmari Hopkins finished second on the squad with 12.

Despite the loss, there were a few bright spots. Junior Sebastian Paul proved his effort on the JV team last year worked as he led the Seahawks with four steals and did the little things all night. Sophomore Mason Glover reeled in eight rebounds to top the squad, adding a block to his portfolio in the paint. Senior Tate Sickler had a team-high three assists, tying with sophomore Rico Nock, who was second on the team with 13 points. Sophomore Farmar Amisial put himself on the map with a team-high 20 points, going 13 for 18 at the foul line. He also had a block.

Leinbach praised his budding baller.

“He has worked hard and has shown a desire to learn over the past few years, and he is starting to see the results; 20 points versus Tech with 18 trips to the line and then 29 points versus Red Lion with eight trips to the line,” Leinbach said. “His passion and drive needs to become contagious.” 

In the 63-46 loss to Red Lion Dec. 5, Amisial’s 29 points were little consolation for the defeat.

“The emotion that we had in the locker room after our tough Red Lion loss showed the entire team what it feels like to leave everything on the court,” Leinbach said. “We need to build off that.”

Sussex Academy travels to Laurel to take on the Bulldogs at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 9.