The boys varsity basketball team lost 64-61 on Wednesday, Feb. 14, against the Charlestown Townies in the Schluntz Gymnasium.

The game was delayed by 30 minutes, which the Warriors spent celebrating senior night, recognizing the seniors on the cheer and basketball teams.

Senior night began by commemorating the three senior captains of the cheer team, and the senior and captain of the basketball team, Chris Sillice. The team and audience applauded the athletes, with a team photo taken at the end.

The Warriors began strong, winning the tipoff. Unfortunately, they did not capitalize, and after several failed drives by both teams, the Townies scored a layup to get the first points on the board.

The Warriors fought back, with junior and forward Alan Shi scoring two shots to take the lead. Both teams continued to get points, with the Warriors gaining an 11-8 lead by the end of the first quarter.

The Warriors started the second quarter strong, with senior and forward Chris Sillice scoring a 3-pointer to shoot ahead by six.

However, the Warrior’s push did not last. The Townies managed a series of quick steals and breakaways to gain a 34-25 lead by the end of the half.

Going into the second half, the Warriors focused on regaining ground, but the Townies cemented their lead through speed and defense, leading by 13 points.

Junior and guard Barry Golden credited the constant fighting spirit of the team throughout the game.

“I think it went well. Even though we played hard, we fought, there were a couple of minor mistakes,” Golden said.

Near the end of the third quarter and beginning of the fourth, Shi scored two shots, tightening the score to 53-50.

The Warriors continued to score, with two back-to-back shots from freshman and guard Caleb Haynes, which narrowed the score to 60-59, behind by only one point with two minutes remaining.

The Townies continued to play aggressively, hitting a shot and two free throws to bring the score to 64-59 with 30 seconds left. The Warriors made a layup, but time ran out, and the final score was a 64-61 loss.

The game was close, and Head coach Johnny Williams said the Warriors fought well.

“I think it was a hard-fought game,” Williams said. “My kids stepped up and played very well, it was a one-possession loss.”