Ketcham’s Zaahir Woody keeps the ball away from Arlington’s Justin Leigh during the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament in Poughkeepsie on Wednesday.

Ketcham’s Zaahir Woody drives through Arlington’s Tom Duffy during the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament in Poughkeepsie on Wednesday.

Mike Paino collected his team at halftime, trailing by four points.

“We’re not a one-on-one team,” the Roy C. Ketcham High School boys basketball coach told his players, “We need to run our offenses and run them better.”

His words were taken to heart, as the Indians beat Arlington 60-49 on Wednesday to take third place in the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament at Our Lady of Lourdes High school.

The Indians’ victory continued a full day of basketball at the Boardman Road school, that began with a Poughkeepsie victory over Saunders in a challenge game, and a win for Beacon over Franklin D. Roosevelt in the fifth-place game.

Ketcham’s Tim Reilly shoots the ball over Arlington’s Evan Greco during the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament in Poughkeepsie on Wednesday.

The championship game, between Lourdes and Marlboro, finished after the Journal went to press.

Named the Dutchess County Basketball Coaches Association Holiday Tournament for three decades, the annual event was renamed for Davis last year. A longtime Roosevelt basketball and baseball coach, Davis died on Nov. 4, 2013 at the age of 73. He also spent time coaching the Mount Saint Mary College men’s basketball team.

Newly renamed Duane Davis tournament has balanced field

Arlington led 30-26 at halftime, but the Indians found their groove in the third quarter, mustering enough energy on both ends of the floor to tie the game at 45 with 6:20 left to play. The Indians honed on defense and buried shots to pull out the win.

“We were getting some defensive stops and that’s what we’ve been talking about all season,” Paino said. “Then we executed on the offensive end.”

Matt Seidner led the way with 22 points. Teammate Tim Reilly added 16, while Zaahir Woody contributed with 14.

Ketcham’s Matt Seidner takes a layup over Arlington’s Shane Walczyk during the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament in Poughkeepsie on Wednesday.

“The kids shared the ball extremely well, passed the ball extremely well and we stayed in our offense,” added Paino, whose 6-4 Indians will host Lourdes on Jan. 7. Lourdes was the team Ketcham had lost to previously in the tournament, 65-61, in overtime on Tuesday.

Reilly had 17 points in that loss, including 15 in the second half, hitting two 3-pointers in overtime. Jon Stumberger had 10 points, including three 3-pointers.

Lourdes’ James Anozie had 20 of his 24 points in the second half. Dean Rotger added 14 points for Lourdes and Luke Timm chipped in 12. Kevin Townes had 12 points and five steals for Lourdes (3-2).

To take fifth place in the tournament, Beacon earned a 68-49 win over Roosevelt. Alfredo Robles ignited the Bulldogs with 18 points, 15 of which were scored on 3-point field goals. The Bulldogs opened an 11-4 lead to start the game and never looked back.

“Alfredo’s really played well the last couple games,” said Beacon coach Scott Timpano, whose Bulldogs are now 5-4. “He got us off to a quick start.”

Xavier Mayo scored 16 points, while Malik Vaval-Paris chipped in with 10.

Noah Rosado scored 15 for Roosevelt.

“We got a little sloppy and a little lazy in the second quarter, but we were able to bring it back,” Timpano said. “We rebounded the ball well when we needed to, limiting the opposing team’s shots. We got the inside play out of Xavier Mayo that we’ve sorely been looking for. So we’re hoping to take some momentum into our league play.”

Beacon visits Peekskill on Tuesday.

Earlier in the day, Poughkeepsie overcame a sluggish second quarter to beat Saunders 44-34 in a challenge game originally scheduled for the Slam Dunk Tournament at the Westchester County Center on Tuesday. The game was moved on account of inclement weather.

Shaquez Nesbitt led the Pioneers with 15 points, while Liam Perryman added 12. Poughkeepsie trailed 20-19 at halftime, and overcame difficulty making layups.

“I look at the shooting percentage but I don’t think we did a good job in the first half,” said Poughkeepsie coach Brian Laffin, whose Pioneers improved to 5-1. “Shaquez did a good job, but in that first half he has to finish buckets. I thought Liam’s defense was outstanding and he hurt them on the offensive glass.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Finals online

The finals of the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament finished after the Journal went to press. Visit http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/sports for a full account of the game and video.

Marlboro’s John Perugino drives around Lourdes’ Kevin Townes during the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament final in Poughkeepsie on Wednesday.

Lourdes’ Dean Rotger makes his way through Marlboro’s, from left, Joe Nugent and Tyler Jollie during the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament final in Poughkeepsie on Wednesday.

Lourdes’ James Anozie is covered by Marlboro’s, from left, Jack Rusk and Xavier Oliver during the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament final in Poughkeepsie on Wednesday.

Tyler Jollie has recognized it. His team is, in a word, small.

Marlboro’s Tyler Jollie dribbles past Lourdes’ Luke Timm during the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament final in Poughkeepsie on Wednesday.

But the Marlboro High School boys basketball guard also knows that just isn’t going to change. It’s part of the adversity his team has faced this year, and will continue to face for the rest of the season.

But, the Iron Dukes’ ability to overcome that adversity was exemplified on Wednesday in the finals of the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament. Up against host Our Lady of Lourdes, a team with size, including two of the best post players in the area, the Iron Dukes pulled out a 78-77 overtime win.

Senior forward Xavier Oliver drained a 3-pointer with under three seconds to play. Lourdes got one last shot off, but it didn’t fall.

Ketcham takes third in Duane Davis Tournament; Poughkeepsie, Beacon win

“We know we’re a small team. We’re one of the smallest teams that’s been in Marlboro for a while,” said Jollie, who scored 25 points against Lourdes and earned an All-Tournament nod. “We know that if we want to win games, we have to have heart and hustle every game. It’s about getting back on defense and making the right plays.”

The Iron Dukes and Warriors were knotted, 70-70, at the end of regulation. Luke Timm, Lourdes’ 6-foot-5 forward, made a shot in the paint, came up with a steal on Marlboro’s ensuing possession and sunk a layup to open the overtime frame. The four-point run didn’t frazzle the Iron Dukes however, as Nick Mongelli drained a 3-pointer to make it a one-point Lourdes lead.

Jaiden Allen then struck, making a layup to give Marlboro a 75-74 advantage. Lourdes scored three more points and took the lead one last time before Oliver, the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, made the game-winner. Oliver finished the game with 25 points.

“We dealt with a lot of foul trouble. They made runs on us, we made runs back,” Marlboro coach Mike Koehler said. “We really dealt with a lot as a team. Guys stepped up and made big plays throughout the entire night.”

Wednesday marked Marlboro’s second taste of overtime this season. The Iron Dukes played Poughkeepsie on Dec. 21, battling the Pioneers into extra time. Poughkeepsie came out on top in that instance, 67-64.

But by now, Marlboro is used to games coming down to the last 60 seconds. The Iron Dukes withstood a fourth quarter run by Beacon and beat the Bulldogs on Monday, 68-67 for a win in the Davis tournament. Beacon took a 62-61 lead with a minute left, but Mongelli made a jump shot and was fouled. He executed the 3-point play and the Iron Dukes went on to win.

Jollie knew what to expect against Lourdes, having already been in similar positions.

“We dealt with (overtime) one time, so we’re used to the situation,” Jollie said. “We just had a better outcome this time.”

Lourdes’ Luke Timm takes a shot over Marlboro’s, from left, Jack Rusk and Xavier Oliver during the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament final in Poughkeepsie on Wednesday.

James Anozie, Lourdes’ all-tournament player, was one of Marlboro’s biggest obstacles. The 6-foot-5 junior center scored 40 points. Teammate Kevin Townes scored 15, while Dean Rotger added 11.

“Our goal, with the kind of team we have, is to get us in basketball form by the middle-end of January,” Warriors coach Jim Santoro said. Several of Lourdes’ top players, including Timm and Rotger, were still playing football on the day after Thanksgiving. “I know (the Iron Dukes) hit a lot of shots, but I thought we did a decent job defending at the perimeter with our big guys.”

Lourdes (3-3) will visit Mahopac at 6 p.m. Tuesday.

Marlboro (7-2) will get its next chance to possibly overcome adversity on Tuesday, when the Iron Dukes host Highland at 5:30 p.m.

Marlboro’s Jaiden Allen goes for a layup against Lourdes’ Kevin Townes during the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament final in Poughkeepsie on Wednesday.

“Every game gets harder. Every game means more,” Koehler said. “You’ve got to build off this and I’d say every game is the biggest game of the year. The next game is the biggest game of the year.

“We have to have that mentality and play with that type of intensity.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Red Hook’s Dennis Hare dribbles down court during Tuesday’s game at New Paltz.

Red Hook’s Beau Smith weaves his way through New Paltz’s, from left, Michael Krebs and Jimmy Verney during Tuesday’s game at New Paltz.

Red Hook’s Beau Smith takes a shot on net as New Paltz’s, from left, Matt Kanan and Grant Harlow cover him during Tuesday’s game at New Paltz.

Matt Hayes called timeout in the third quarter of his team’s game Tuesday.

The Red Hook High School boys basketball coach reminded the Raiders of their game plan against host New Paltz. The simple reminder sparked a fire in Red Hook, as the Raiders went on to win, 71-47.

“They did a good job following through on that,” said Hayes, whose Raiders improved to 4-3. “I think the guys got the message.”

Red Hook trailed 27-25 at halftime before rallying to win the third quarter, 29-9 — a frame Hayes said was the “best quarter of the year” for his team. Dennis Hare broke through with 20 points, and “capitalized on scoring chances,” Hayes said. Teammate Nick Michitsch added 17. Beau Smith contributed with 13 points.

Red Hook’s Nick Michitsch breaks away from New Paltz’s Jimmy Verney during Tuesday’s game at New Paltz.

The Huguenots were led by the play of Axel Rodriguez, who scored 17 points. Matt Kanan chipped in with eight points.

“Based on what I had seen New Paltz do over the last couple games, I knew who their better players are,” Hayes said. “Axel is a difficult guy to guard one-on-one and Matt Kanan is a good shooter. We had to follow through on our game plan defensively.”

Red Hook will visit Rondout Valley on Friday. New Paltz will visit Marlboro on Friday.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Beacon’s Liam Ollive, left, wrestles Arlington’s Dennis Robin, right.

Eighth grader Dennis Robin comes from a long line of wrestlers at Arlington High School.

His dad and his uncle were forces on the Arlington wrestling team in their time. Dale Robin, his father, won a section title before graduating in 1986. His uncle, David, was a section champion and became the first Arlington graduate to reach the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships during his days at Rider.

His brother and current teammate, Brady, was named Most Outstanding Wrestler among all seniors competing in last week’s Mid-Hudson Tournament at Arlington.

Dennis was the runner-up in the 99-pound weight class at the Mid-Hudson Tournament, losing by pinfall to Matthew Romano of Valley Central in the third period.

Arlington’s Sears talks tennis, superpowers and avocados

Still, it was one of his favorite matches of the year. Dennis recently talked to the Journal about his family’s wrestling legacy, season goals and where he likes to eat after a match.

You come from a long line of wrestlers at Arlington. How do you feel about carrying on the family legacy?

I feel really good about it, to carry on the legacy. Hopefully my kids can wrestle too.

Describe what a Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner is like. Is there a lot of wrestling conversation at the table?

Always. My uncle comes over, we wrestle sometimes. He coaches at Carmel and he always talks about his kids.

What’s the most valuable piece of advice your dad or uncle have given you concerning wrestling?

They always tell me to work hard and it always pay off.

This season is going well so far, for your team. What’s your take on the team’s success heading into 2016?

This year we’re having a really good year. Last year we had no starting seniors. This year is going really well and hopefully next year will go really well, too.

John Jay’s Croce a cheese-loving, tap-dancing, field hockey standout

Any matches/opponents that stand out to you so far?

In my Mid-Hudson final, I wrestled this kid from Valley Central. I felt really good because I wasn’t as nervous — I was warmed up, it was our home mat, and if I didn’t win this year I could always win next year.

Do you have a personal goal for the season and if so, what is it?

This season I hope to win the section.

How are you working toward meeting that goal?

I do a lot of sprints and weight lifting, and a lot of offseason wrestling at my local club.

Is there a wrestler you admire or try to model yourself after?

I try to be like my brother: a two-time Mid-Hudson champ. He always makes me better because we have a wrestling room at home. He always teaches me stuff he knows.

A wrestling room at home? Describe that.

My dad built a wrestling room five years ago. It’s pretty big. There’s a couple rows of mats and to the side there’s an area with a lot of weights that I lift.

Marlboro’s Akinboboye talks pronunciations and hardest he’s been hit

What type of music do you listen to before a match?

I listen to all different types of music, from country to pop.

What was your favorite Christmas present this year?

I got a new pair of wrestling shoes.

Last movie you watched?

I watched “Jurassic World” with my dad. I’m not really that kind of movie guy, but it was pretty good.

Favorite food after a hard-fought match?

I like Buffalo Wild Wings. I also like to go to Dunkin Donuts.

Favorite subject in school?

I like social studies because my teacher is really funny. He’s also my sister’s softball coach, so I know him really well.

Now I have to ask: are you a fan of pro wrestling?

Like, the fake kind? No, not really. I don’t watch that kind of stuff.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Basketball in Hoop

The Beacon High School girls basketball team can be characterized in many ways. A one-woman show is not one of them.

Behind a triple-double and two double-doubles, the Bulldogs beat host Lakeland 58-50 on Thursday.

Lauren Schetter led with 23 points, 15 rebounds and 13 steals. Teammate Gabby DeMaria scored 10 points with 14 rebounds while Ema Jacketti had 13 points and 10 rebounds. Eighth grader Enita Rodriguez added eight points.

“It was a balanced effort. We played team basketball, shared the ball and had contributions from all players,” Dahl said. “And we filled out defensively.”

The Bulldogs now have some steam heading into their game against Haldane in Cold Spring on Tuesday.

“(Haldane) is a quick team,” said Beacon coach Christina Dahl, whose Bulldogs improved to 6-4. “We’re going to prepare for them and hopefully we can continue the defensive surge we’ve had, and cause some problems for them.”

The Bulldogs led 30-20 at halftime, but Lakeland trimmed the lead to 40-39 in favor of Beacon by the end of the third quarter. The Bulldogs were able to settle down, however, and win the fourth quarter.

“I think we settled ourselves in the fourth,” Dahl said. “We started taking the ball to the basket. A few of our players were in foul trouble early on, but we got great contributions from the bench. We didn’t give up the entire game.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

The Franklin D. Roosevelt High School gymnastics team recently remembered a life taken too soon, with an event the team hopes will become an annual fundraiser.

Nikki Filiberti, the sister of Katie Filiberti, competes on floor exercise during the Dec. 12 Katie Filiberti Memorial Invitational at Franklin D. Roosevelt High School.

On Dec. 12, the Presidents hosted the inaugural Katie Filiberti Memorial Invitational, with all proceeds going towards the Katie Filiberti Scholarship Fund. The team raised a little over $1,900, according to Roosevelt gymnastics coach Yonnie Coughlin.

Coughlin fondly remembered Filiberti, who was a 2010 Roosevelt graduate, a six-year member of the school’s gymnastics team and a New York state meet qualifier in the vault in 2009. She also participated on Roosevelt’s cross country team for two years.

“She was a bundle of energy,” said Coughlin, who served as Filiberti’s assistant coach and now coaches Filiberti’s sister, Nikki. “A fun person to be around. She was vibrant and vivacious; dedicated to gymnastics. She was our sister — someone you loved spending time with. I miss her greatly.”

Filiberti was killed at the age of 18 in March 2011, by Stephen Shand, a 23 year old whom she encountered while walking home from a party. Filiberti’s death ignited a five-month investigation that ended with Shand’s arrest and ultimately a guilty plea to first-degree murder and predatory sexual assault. He was given a sentence of 40 years to life in prison.

The gymnastics meet took place 11 days after Filiberti’s birthday, by coincidence. She would have been 23 on Dec. 1.

“To have an event around her birthday makes for something nice during a tough time of the year,” Coughlin said.

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Ali Bertolozzi competes on floor exercise on Dec. 12.

Including the Presidents, four teams competed in the invitational, which was an exhibition. Mahopac, Kingston/New Paltz and Carmel joined Roosevelt for the showcase. Roosevelt and Mahopac divided up their athletes into groups — the “gold” team and the “blue” team. Each team designated one all-around athlete and one specialist for each event. Trophies were awarded to the first, second and third place teams.

“It was a friendship meet,” Coughlin said. “You run it differently than a normal meet.”

The Mahopac “blue” team finished first with 64.75 overall points. The Kingston/New Paltz squad placed second with 61.1 points, while Carmel finished third with 60.4 points. Roosevelt’s “green” team was fourth with 58.3 points, its “gold” team was fifth (56.15) and Mahopac’s “gold” team was sixth (29.75).

Coughlin lauded the support from the community and vendors, making the event possible. Moreover, she hopes this event will continue on annually to keep Filiberti’s memory and funds for the scholarship in her name fresh.

“We had a tremendous amount of support from Hyde Park businesses and a really wonderful outpouring of support from the vendors,” Coughlin added. “We’re also grateful for the teams to support us and come to the invitational.

“The purpose (of the event) was to keep Katie’s memory at the forefront, to honor her and keep the scholarship fund replenished.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

The Spackenkill High School boys basketball team showed it has plenty of depth on Friday.

Basketball in Hoop

When Camron Abalos left the game after being struck in the nose early in the third quarter, several Spartans stepped up over the second half, and helped lead Spackenkill to a 73-46 win over visiting Webutuck.

“It gave the other guys an opportunity to do some things for us,” said Spartans coach Tom Bell, whose team improved to 6-3.

Bell said Abalos’ nose was not broken and he will play against James I. O’Neill on Tuesday. But in his second-half absence against the Warriors, many Spartans shined.

Kyiev Bennermon scored 14 points with 15 rebounds while Jon Timm added 10 points. Alex Strom scored eight points with 16 rebounds, and assumed point guard duties after Abalos checked out. Tucker Lee made eight steals.

“We used full court pressure right from the start. We used our pressure defense to force quick shots,” Bell said. “We had a lead at halftime and after that we mixed and matched, got everyone in.”

Jonathan Lehning led Webutuck with 16 points. Fellow Warrior Angus Edmundson poured in 11.

“Webutuck played hard,” Bell added. “They’re a much improved team. (Webutuck coach) Pete (Iuele) is doing a nice job with those kids and they’re really coming along.”

The Warriors will host Rhinebeck at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Marlboro’s Jetta Stephens dribbles the ball up to New Paltz’s Ally Pannuto during Friday’s game at New Paltz.

New Paltz’s, Bella Santos looks to pass the ball as Marlboro’s, from left,Taylor Felicello and Jetta Stephens cover her during Friday’s game at New Paltz.

Marlboro’s Melissa Sadler weaves her way around New Paltz’s, from left, Hailey Osborne and Bridget Barry during Friday’s game at New Paltz.

The Marlboro High School girls basketball team faced adversity Friday, at the beginning of the game and at the end.

New Paltz’s Hailey Osborne looks to pass the ball away from Malrboro’s Taylor Felicello during Friday’s game at New Paltz.

But when Missy Sadler sustained an ankle injury in the early going, the Iron Dukes didn’t panic. And when they were down by eight points to host New Paltz with two minutes left, they didn’t yield.

Marlboro overcame the odds both times and beat the Huguenots, 66-59.

“It was obviously a tough game,” said Marlboro coach Marion Casey, whose team improved to 8-0. “It’s games like this that make a team better and I’m proud of everyone for stepping up.”

Sadler went up for a rebound in the first quarter and came down hard, Casey said. She got fouled and rolled her ankle, forcing her to leave the game. Talaya Lewis came through, however, with 19 points. Julia Rusk added 17 points.

“Missy is a huge part of our team, but we were able to come together,” Casey said. “We were able to persevere and play as a team.”

Ally Pannuto scored 24 points for New Paltz, which fell to 4-5 and will visit Saugerties Tuesday. The late rally was a product of hard work, Casey added.

“It was tough,” Casey said. “We kept chipping away. We did what we had to do for the last two minutes to make it possible.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Khallid Hart

Earlier in the week, Marist College men’s basketball guard Khallid Hart said in order to beat Iona, the Red Foxes would need to control the tempo.

And the Red Foxes did keep up with the Gaels for the most part, but in the end, Iona had just a little more fire power. Marist lost 90-80 in New Rochelle Saturday, dropping to 4-10 overall and 1-4 in Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference play.

Trailing by five coming out of the half, the Red Foxes scored four straight points on a jumper by freshman guard Brian Parker, then a dunk by junior center Kentrall Brooks. Iona still led by one, however, and never relinquished the lead over the game’s final 20 minutes.

Hart was Marist’s leading scorer with 23 points, nine of which came over the final 4:14. He grabbed five rebounds, shot 5 for 13 from the field and drained five 3-pointers in eight attempts. Parker scored 21 points and finished 9 for 11 from the field.

Marist men on season, improvements

Freshman swingman Kristinn Palsson scored 12 points, all of which were poured in on 3-point field goals. Sophomore swingman Obi Momah scored a career-high 11 points and added six rebounds.

The Red Foxes led 17-14 with 12:55 to play in the first half, but Iona answered with a seven-point run. Marist fought back to tie it twice, however, but trailed 43-38 at the intermission.

Iona, which previously beat Marist 101-66 on Dec. 4, received a pivotal performance from senior guard A.J. English, who scored 24 points in 38 minutes. English went 10 for 10 from behind the foul line and added eight assists.

Deyshonee Much, another Iona senior guard, scored 21 points and buried five 3-pointers in nine tries. He also led the Gaels in rebounds with six. Junior forward Taylor Bessick and senior guard Ibn Muhammad each added 11 points.

Senior center Eric Troug did not play on account of a finger injury he sustained in practice. Marist will visit MAAC foe Rider at 8 p.m. on Thursday.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Beacon’s Josiah McCall dribbles down court past Poughkeepsie’s Caval Haylett during Saturday’s game at Beacon.

Beacon’s, from left, Jason Antalek and Xavier Mayo get the rebound over Poughkeepsie’s, from left, Caval Haylett and Marvin Lunsford during Saturday’s game at Beacon.

Scott Timpano’s thoughts sometimes drift to last year, when his Beacon High School boys’ basketball team struggled, not even qualifying for the Section 1 tournament.

Beacon’s Shaheim Fryar takes a shot over Poughkeepsie’s Antoine West during Saturday’s game at Beacon.

But this year is a completely different story.

The Bulldogs picked up their eighth win of the season on Saturday at the expense of visiting Poughkeepsie, 74-67.

“It feels great,” Timpano said. “My thoughts go back to last year, my first season. It was a slow year, so to come out this year and have all the cylinders going is great.”

Malique Vaval-Paris led Beacon with 26 points. Shaheim Fryar added 13 points while Josiah McCall and Alfredo Robles each had 10.

Beacon’s Malique Vaval-Paris drives the ball while being covered by Poughkeepsie’s Shaquez Nesbitt during Saturday’s game at Beacon.

The Pioneers scored 22 points in the third quarter, with Akili Hill at the forefront. Hill led Poughkeepsie with 17 points. Troy Schoonmaker contributed 14.

Beacon was able to establish itself in the final quarter, which concluded with a dunk by Fryar.

“Poughkeepsie’s an excellent team. They go on those streaks and can put up a lot of points in a small amount of time,” Timpano said. “I’m happy we could pull through and finish it out.”

The Pioneers (5-4) lost to Wallkill 58-54 on the road late Friday, playing without Shaquez Nesbitt and Corey Simmons. Poughkeepsie will visit Franklin D. Roosevelt at 5:45 p.m. Tuesday.

Beacon (8-4) will visit Ossining at 4:15 p.m. Wednesday.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

The Franklin D. Roosevelt High School gymnastics team recently remembered a life taken too soon, with an event the team hopes will become an annual fundraiser.

Nikki Filiberti, the sister of Katie Filiberti, competes on floor exercise during the Dec. 12 Katie Filiberti Memorial Invitational at Franklin D. Roosevelt High School.

On Dec. 12, the Presidents hosted the inaugural Katie Filiberti Memorial Invitational, with all proceeds going towards the Katie Filiberti Scholarship Fund. The team raised a little over $1,900, according to Roosevelt gymnastics coach Yonnie Coughlin.

Coughlin fondly remembered Filiberti, who was a 2010 Roosevelt graduate, a six-year member of the school’s gymnastics team and a New York state meet qualifier in the vault in 2009. She also participated on Roosevelt’s cross country team for two years.

“She was a bundle of energy,” said Coughlin, who served as Filiberti’s assistant coach and now coaches Filiberti’s sister, Nikki. “A fun person to be around. She was vibrant and vivacious; dedicated to gymnastics. She was our sister — someone you loved spending time with. I miss her greatly.”

Filiberti was killed at the age of 18 in March 2011, by Stephen Shand, a 23 year old whom she encountered while walking home from a party. Filiberti’s death ignited a five-month investigation that ended with Shand’s arrest and ultimately a guilty plea to first-degree murder and predatory sexual assault. He was given a sentence of 40 years to life in prison.

The gymnastics meet took place 11 days after Filiberti’s birthday, by coincidence. She would have been 23 on Dec. 1.

“To have an event around her birthday makes for something nice during a tough time of the year,” Coughlin said.

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Ali Bertolozzi competes on floor exercise on Dec. 12.

Including the Presidents, four teams competed in the invitational, which was an exhibition. Mahopac, Kingston/New Paltz and Carmel joined Roosevelt for the showcase. Roosevelt and Mahopac divided up their athletes into groups — the “gold” team and the “blue” team. Each team designated one all-around athlete and one specialist for each event. Trophies were awarded to the first, second and third place teams.

“It was a friendship meet,” Coughlin said. “You run it differently than a normal meet.”

The Mahopac “blue” team finished first with 64.75 overall points. The Kingston/New Paltz squad placed second with 61.1 points, while Carmel finished third with 60.4 points. Roosevelt’s “green” team was fourth with 58.3 points, its “gold” team was fifth (56.15) and Mahopac’s “gold” team was sixth (29.75).

Coughlin lauded the support from the community and vendors, making the event possible. Moreover, she hopes this event will continue on annually to keep Filiberti’s memory and funds for the scholarship in her name fresh.

“We had a tremendous amount of support from Hyde Park businesses and a really wonderful outpouring of support from the vendors,” Coughlin added. “We’re also grateful for the teams to support us and come to the invitational.

“The purpose (of the event) was to keep Katie’s memory at the forefront, to honor her and keep the scholarship fund replenished.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

FDR’s Aubrey Albertson goes for a layup as Monroe Woodbury’s Johnny McCormick defends during Monday’s game in Hyde Park.

FDR’s D’Andre Orr takes a shot over Monroe Woodbury’s Mike Mullahy during Monday’s game in Hyde Park.

FDR’s Nowah Rosado shoots over Monroe Woodbury’s , from left, Johnny McCormick and Patrick Feeley during Monday’s game in Hyde Park.

The Presidents aren’t hanging their heads. For them, it’s on to the next one.

After a sloppy fourth quarter on Tuesday which led to a 63-59 loss at home to Monroe-Woodbury, the Franklin D. Roosevelt High School boys basketball team will host Poughkeepsie at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

“We’ve got to bounce back,” said Roosevelt coach Kevin Hart, whose Presidents fell to 2-7. “This is over. We hope everyone brings the energy and intensity (to the game against Poughkeepsie). We can’t feel sorry for ourselves, we just have to come ready to fight.”

H.S. honor roll: Career-highs, milestones on hardwood highlight week

Roosevelt led 47-35 at the end of three against Monroe-Woodbury, but sloppiness played a key part in the Presidents’ breakdown. Hart said his team did not play good basketball in the fourth quarter — a frame in which Roosevelt was outscored 28-12.

The Presidents were winning 31-20 at halftime, though the Presidents trailed 15-12 after quarter number one.

Action from Monday’s game between FDR and Monroe Woodbury.

“It was a good, solid three quarters of basketball,” Hart said. “In order to win you have to play four quarters. We fell asleep in the fourth and it was poor execution down the stretch. We let it slip away and the results in the fourth quarter showed that.”

Trevor Monroe led the Presidents with 18 points. Nowah Rosado added 16, while Ryan Diehl pitched in with 10.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

It sure as heck played out like a championship game. Lead changes. Runs. Contested shots. It even went into overtime.

The fans that traveled from Poughkeepsie to Syracuse the day after Thanksgiving were supportive and vocal cheering for the Our Lady of Lourdes High School football team in the Class A state final.

The finals of the annual Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament at Our Lady of Lourdes High School on Dec. 30 — contested between the hometown Warriors and the Marlboro Iron Dukes — had everything a high school boys basketball game should have.

It also had what it shouldn’t have.

I sat nestled next to the scorer’s table in the stands during the game, my iPhone in hand, ready to tweet away updates. My laptop lived up to its title, resting on my lap, making it easier to write the game report as the action unfolded.

But my concentration was mildly slighted throughout the game by a heckler in the form of a grown man in a Marlboro Iron Dukes sweatshirt sitting right behind me. Loudly, he yelled inflammatory remarks directed at the Lourdes players, the Lourdes coach and even fellow spectators.

Never, in my five-plus years of reporting on high school sports, had I seen such childish antics. The heckler not only took jabs at players, but got personal and made derogatory remarks about how male students at Lourdes wear ties to school.

As a Lourdes alumnus, I took exception to that. I even considered saying something to this gentleman about how I didn’t appreciate his ridiculous and provoking words.

Taking the high road is always a better choice. Especially considering it was an isolated incident. I have attended plenty of Marlboro events in my first year at the Journal, and haven’t witnessed any other misbehaving Iron Dukes fans.

Still, some folks may need a reminder of why they are at the game in the first place: to support the kids in their communities and to enjoy a basketball game.

Lourdes coach Jim Santoro agreed.

“Obviously fans are coming for two reasons. To support their local high schools and kids and because they’re fans of basketball and like high school basketball,” Santoro said. “We have a tendency to get caught up in rivalries that may have been created, especially watching competitive games.

“For the most part, the fans are great. I think, sometimes, they get too emotionally invested in the game and lose the perspective that these are adolescents competing against each other in a healthy environment. It should be fun, especially when you’re given execution on both ends.”

And make no mistake, the game itself was enjoyable.

Marlboro’s Xavier Oliver, who was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, scored 25 points. His total was matched by all-tournament selection Tyler Jollie. All-tournament player James Anozie led Lourdes with 40 points, with Kevin Townes (15 points) and Dean Rotger (11 points) backing him up.

For two teams from two schools that have built a rivalry through multiple big games in multiple sports, it was the teenagers who kept the night civilized.

“There was nothing but respect between the two coaches and two teams,” Santoro said of the game, which fell Marlboro’s way, 78-77.

That’s what you want to hear. Respect. Sportsmanship. Support. That’s what high school sports are about.

Perhaps some folks need that reminder.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

New Paltz’s Michael Holohan takes a shot over Saugerties’ defense during Tuesday’s game in New Paltz.

New Paltz’s Michael Krebs drives to the net past Saugerties’ Jake Vernon during Tuesday’s game in New Paltz.

New Paltz’s Corey Burke dribbles around Saugerties’ Dondre Francis during Tuesday’s game in New Paltz.

New Paltz’s Axel Rodriguez takes a shot ahead of Saugerties’ Jeroy Gordon during Tuesday’s game in New Paltz.

Tied after regulation on Tuesday, New Paltz High School boys basketball coach Stu Robinson reminded his team:

“We were just here.”

After an overtime win over Washingtonville on the road Monday, the Huguenots pulled out a 50-48 win in extra time over visiting Saugerties.

“I told them ‘we were just in this position. Let’s go after it again,’ ” said Robinson, whose Huguenots improved to 5-4. “I think our win (Monday) kind of gave us some momentum coming into (Tuesday). A couple of the other guys stepped up, who hadn’t really had their day. It was good.”

Michael Holohan led New Paltz with 14 points, with Axel Rodriguez behind him scoring 11. The Huguenots trailed 20-19 at halftime, but won the overtime frame, 6-4.

Robinson said he understood the challenge Saugerties, the defending Section 9 Class A champion, would present.

Corey Burke scored a career-high 16 points in New Paltz’s 59-54 overtime win Monday. Rodriguez added 12.

New Paltz will host Marlboro on Tuesday. The Iron Dukes beat the Huguenots, 53-44, on Jan. 8.

“We played a close game with them last Friday and had our opportunities,” Robinson said. “It will be a tough game down to the end.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

The Bulldogs had to dig deep. They did. And they pulled out another win.

Basketball in Hoop

On Wednesday, the Beacon High School boys basketball team overcame a three-point halftime deficit to beat host Ossining, 74-68, for its fifth straight win.

The Pride cut the Bulldogs’ lead to two points with 45 seconds left, but Beacon persevered.

“It was definitely a hard-fought game from the beginning. Bodies were flying everywhere,” Beacon coach Scott Timpano said.

Josiah McCall led Beacon with 22 points, while teammate Malique Vaval-Paris added 13. Xavier Mayo scored 11 and Shaheim Fryar poured in 10, rounding out the Bulldogs scoring.

At halftime Ossining led 37-34, as Beacon battled foul trouble over the first 16 minutes. Timpano had encouraging words for his boys when they trailed at the break.

“I told them if we can keep it to within three points with two starters on the bench, we can take control of this game after halftime,” Timpano said. “We did. We came out aggressive. Defensively we played exceptionally well. The game got tight in the fourth quarter and we were able to dig in.

“It was a great effort from a lot of different people.”

The victory put Beacon at 9-4 for the season. Last year, it won just two games.

“We’re learning on the fly,” Timpano said. “We’re leaning on each other in order to accomplish our goals.”

The Bulldogs visit Walter Panas in Cortlandt Manor at 6:15 p.m. Friday.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Rachael Moran was in the right spot at the right time — literally the last second.

And she got to play the role of hero.

Moran made a reverse layup with one-tenth of a second left on the clock to lift the Arlington High School girls basketball team a 47-45 buzzer-beating win over visiting Our Lady of Lourdes Wednesday in Freedom Plains.

“When you get a moment like that and get to celebrate as a team, it’s priceless,” said Arlington coach Kim Costello, whose Admirals improved to 7-5. “It proves we can hang in there with the best of them. Lourdes, obviously, is always good. The last three to four years we’ve always had tight games with them.”

While Moran had the game-winning shot and finished with four points, Casey Schweitzer led Arlington with 18 points, six steals, six rebounds and five assists. Rebecca Mahon added 10 points while Crystal Miller grabbed eight rebounds.

“We were good. They were doing what we asked them to do,” Costello said of her players. “My message to them was to fight for 32 minutes.”

Abby Weeks led Lourdes with 21 points. Fellow Warrior Maddie Siegrist contributed with 18.

Lourdes will face Marlboro in the first round of its tournament on Saturday.

Arlington will host John Jay at 6 p.m. on Friday.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Arlington’s Tiana Johnson takes a shot as Lourdes’ Marguerite McGahay covers her during Wednesday’s game at Arlington.

Arlington’s Cassidy Clay slaps the ball away from Lourdes’ Madison Siegrist during Wednesday’s game at Arlington.

Arlington’s Rachael Moran drives to the net through Lourdes’ Rebecca Townes during Wednesday’s game at Arlington.

Arlington’s Casey Schweitzer takes a shot over Lourdes’ Marguerite McGahay during Wednesday’s game at Arlington.

Spackenkill’s Alex Strom takes a shot between Onteora’s, from left, Matthew Vines, and Jameson Morton during Thursday’s game at Spackenkill.

Spackenkill’s Camron Abalos drives to the net past Onteora’s, Jameson Morton during Thursday’s game at Spackenkill.

Spackenkill’s Stanley Garrant takes a shot as Onteora’s Miles Eberhard covers him during Thursday’s game at Spackenkill.

Spackenkill’s Kyiev Bennermon goes for a layup past Onteora’s, from left, Matthew Vines, and Nicholas Fulford during Thursday’s game at Spackenkill.

Tom Bell had one strategy for his Spackenkill High School boys basketball team on Thursday: Limit Onteroa’s Jameson Morton.

The Spartans did just that to the best of their ability, and came away with a 62-46 win over the visiting Indians. Spackenkill’s defense held Morton to 18 points, and only six over the first three quarters.

“We tried to deny him the ball constantly,” said Bell, whose Spartans improved to 7-3. “We doubled him constantly. He’s a great player. We wanted to make it as hard as possible for him to score.”

Alex Strom was Spackenkill’s leader with 16 points, 11 rebounds, three steals and four assists.

“He’s playing great right now,” Bell said of Strom.

Kyiev Bennermon backed him up with 13 points and 12 rebounds. Camron Abalos added 14 points and Tucker Lee contributed with 12.

The Spartans held a 34-20 lead at the half, at which time Bell told his boys to “keep it going.”

On Tuesday, the Spartans will visit Ellenville — a team they beat 62-58 in overtime on Jan. 7.

“Going to Ellenville is always very difficult,” Bell said. “It’s a long ride, they’re well-coached and have been a league rival the past few years. We’re going to take the next three days to prepare and practice. It won’t be easy.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Millbrook’s Chris Ross, center, looks for an open teammate during Friday’s game against Rhinebeck.

Rhinebeck’s Jack Spencer, left, goes for a layup while Millbrook’s Alex Censi, right, defends.

Rhinebeck High School boys basketball coach David Aierstok knows his team is clicking. Still, he knows there is a lot of season left and his Hawks have to continue to play well.

Rhinebeck picked up its ninth win of the season on Friday, beating visiting Millbrook 89-32.

“It’s a good spot to be in, but there are a lot of games left,” Aierstok said. “We haven’t won anything yet and we have to keep on working.”

The Hawks certainly went to work against the Blazers, led by Jack Spencer’s 20 points and 12 rebounds. Hunter Brandt contributed with 19 points and hit five shots from beyond the 3-point arc. Rob Veith posted 14 points while Joey Boland added 11.

Rhinebeck outscored Millbrook 24-2 in the second quarter.

Rhinebeck’s Joseph Boland, center, looks for an open teammate as Millbrook’s Humberto Cabrera, left, Ethan Martell, center right, and Taylor Harkenrider, right, defend. Rhinebeck’s Spencer Hutchins, center left, tries to get open.

The Blazers were led by Jacob Wright’s eight points.

“Millbrook played hard,” Aierstok said. “We give them credit.”

Aierstok knows his team is up against other stiff Section 9 Class B competition, including the likes of Marlboro, Spackenkill and John A. Coleman Catholic.

“When all these teams are playing well, you’ve got to keep up with a lot of people,” the coach said. “They’re experienced and we have to keep it going from here on out.”

The Hawks (9-2) will host Highland Thursday. Millbrook hosts Pine Plains Tuesday.

Rhinebeck’s Joseph Boland, right, goes for a layup while Millbrook’s Humberto Cabrera, left, defends.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Matt Hayes was laid back. Content.

Of course, that feeling came right after his Red Hook High School boys basketball team’s game on Saturday, when he was coaching his daughter’s CYO game.

The Raiders’ game proved to be a little more intense, but they came out with a 57-49 win over visiting Valley Central.

“We got out to a great start,” said Hayes, whose team improved to 7-3 and have won five in a row. “It was an excellent win for our guys with another tough week coming up.”

Red Hook led 24-13 after the first quarter, but Valley Central, which was 10-3 coming in, hung in. The Raiders led by one heading into the fourth, but outscored Valley Central 22-15 in the final frame.

Red Hook’s Dennis Hare, left, goes for a layup while Valley Central’s Isaiah Miller, right, defends.

Beau Smith and Dennis Hare each paced Red Hook with 20 points apiece. Colin Bemis grabbed a career-high 14 rebounds and put up eight points. The Raiders have been without Nick Michitsch, who rolled his ankle against Rondout Valley on Jan. 8.

Hayes said Michitsch will return this week.

“It’s turned out to be great for some (of) our bench players,” Hayes said of Michitsch’s absence. “We have him coming back and we’ll be stronger.”

The Raiders visit Poughkeepsie at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

Scenes from the boys basketball game between Red Hook and Valley Central.

“It’s a big game for both teams,” Hayes said. “There are Mid-Hudson Athletic League implications and Poughkeepsie is one of the favorites in Section 9 Class A.

“My guess is this won’t be the only time we face one another.”

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports

Eight games. Two days over two weeks. One great cause.

Boys basketball teams from both sides of the river will have a chance to show their stuff at the fourth annual Officials vs. Cancer event, which tips off with a slate of four games on Saturday at Dutchess Community College.

The event will feature four more games, to be played on Sunday, Jan. 31 at SUNY New Paltz — where it was held exclusively over the first two years.

All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society, and over the first three years the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials local board 114 — the tournament’s organizers — has raised over $30,000.

“We’ve been very fortunate,” said Bill Proal, an official and one of the tournament’s organizers. “Most of our matchups are teams that don’t normally face each other in the regular season. And to be able to turn the money over to the American Cancer Society — we’re happy about that.”

Here’s a look ahead at the Officials vs. Cancer games:

Saturday at Dutchess Community College 

Marlboro High School’s Jaiden Allen goes for a layup against Our Lady of Lourdes’ Kevin Townes during the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament final in Poughkeepsie on Dec. 30.

Millbrook vs. Marlboro, 12:30 p.m.

Players to watch: Millbrook — Humberto Cabrera, Alfredo Sosa, Taylor Harkenrider; Marlboro — Xavier Oliver, Tyler Jollie, Jaiden Allen.

Recent action: Behind 24 points from Cabrera, the Blazers beat Pine Plains 65-40 on Jan. 8. … Marlboro has been on a roll recently, beating Highland 63-33 on Friday. The Iron Dukes also won the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament on Dec. 30, beating Our Lady of Lourdes 78-77 in overtime. Oliver and Jollie both posted 25 points in the win.

John Jay vs. Cornwall, 2:15 p.m.

Players to watch: John Jay — Ryan Schumacher, Ray Kupetz, Jake Karst; Cornwall — Jason Bailey, Connor Marlow, Chris Robinson.

Recent action: The Patriots picked up a win Friday against Arlington, 73-68, behind a career-high 32 points from Schumacher. … Bailey scored 16 points on Jan. 14 to lead Cornwall to a 48-40 win over Liberty.

Franklin D. Roosevelt High School’s Nowah Rosado shoots against Monroe-Woodbury in Hyde Park on Jan. 11.

Franklin D. Roosevelt vs. Arlington, 4 p.m.

Players to watch: Roosevelt — Nowah Rosado, Trevor Monroe, Aubrey Albertson; Arlington — Shane Walczyk, Drew Whiteley, Tom Duffy.

Recent action: The Presidents beat Wallkill 64-53 on Friday behind a 29-point outing from Ethan Hart. Monroe added 12. … Before losing to John Jay, Arlington took a 58-43 loss to Our Lady of Lourdes on Jan. 13, a game in which Walczyk scored 11 points.

Red Hook High School’s Dennis Hare takes a layup against Valley Central on Saturday.

Red Hook vs. Middletown, 5:45 p.m.

Players to watch: Red Hook — Dennis Hare, Nick Michitsch, Beau Smith; Middletown — Malik Roberts, Jordan Bryan, Rashad Campbell.

Recent action: The Raiders have found their groove and beat Valley Central 57-49 on Saturday. Smith and Hare paced Red Hook with 20 points apiece. Colin Bemis grabbed a career-high 14 rebounds and put up eight points. … Middletown has put together a good season at 11-1, and recently beat Pine Bush 73-60.

Sunday, Jan. 31 at SUNY New Paltz 

Our Lady of Lourdes High School’s James Anozie is covered by Marlboro’s, from left, Jack Rusk and Xavier Oliver during the Duane Davis Memorial Holiday Tournament final in Poughkeepsie on Dec. 30.

Saugerties vs. Our Lady of Lourdes, 12:30 p.m.

Players to watch: Our Lady of Lourdes — James Anozie, Kevin Townes, Dean Rotger; Saugerties — Shawn Jansen, Eyzaiya Ortiz, Jake Vernon.

Recent action: The Warriors’ latest win came at the expense of Carmel on Friday, 64-49. Anozie scored 28 points while Townes added 10 points. … Saugerties dealt Poughkeepsie an 84-71 loss on Jan. 5.

Poughkeepsie vs. Newburgh, 2:15 p.m.

Players to watch: Poughkeepsie — Akili Hill, Shaquez Nesbitt, Corey Simmons; Newburgh — Omari Lane, Rayquan Bryant, Imar Lawson.

Recent action: The Pioneers lost 74-67 to Beacon on Jan. 9, despite 22 points from Hill. Poughkeepsie beat Saunders in a challenge game of the Duane Davis Tournament on Dec. 30, 44-43. … Newburgh was nipped by Kingston on Thursday by four points.

Kingston vs. Wallkill, 4 p.m.

Players to watch: Kingston — Andrai Bailey, Chris Wright, Alex Karamanos; Wallkill — Justin Dunikowski, Laurence Kraus, Jordan Childs.

Recent action: Kingston picked up a 74-70 win over Newburgh on Thursday. … Wallkill handed Poughkeepsie a 58-54 loss on Jan. 8.

New Paltz High School’s Michael Holohan takes a shot over Saugerties’ defense during a Jan. 12 game in New Paltz.

New Paltz vs. Roy C. Ketcham, 5:45 p.m.

Players to watch: New Paltz — Axel Rodriguez, Corey Burke, Matt Kanan; Ketcham — Tim Reilly, Jon Stumberger, Zaahir Woody.

Recent action: The Huguenots put together two exciting wins in overtime recently, first beating Washingtonville in extra time, then Saugerties. Burke scored a career-high 16 against Washingtonville while Michael Holohan led New Paltz with 14 points over Saugerties.  The Indians recently posted a 53-36 win over Carmel behind a 20-point, 11-rebound performance from Reilly.

A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports