GHS Fishermen Basketball fell to the Marblehead Magicians in their season opener 58-62. After a strong first quarter and several big leads, Gloucester’s offense collapsed and cost them the game.

“We fought hard, but just couldn’t get the win in the end,” senior captain Jack Patten said. “Gotta stay positive though, we can only go up from here.”

Gloucester senior Zach Oliver kicked off the game when he attacked the rim to give Gloucester the game’s first points. GHS senior Byron Thomas was locked in from the start, hitting a stepback mid range shot and a three pointer. GHS finished the first quarter being up 24-13. Thomas led GHS with 11 points and Oliver with 7.

Gloucester kept their lead alive in the second quarter, and were given numerous free throws. Defensively, Gloucester stood strong and physical. The score was 34-23 Gloucester at halftime. Thomas led all scorers with 17 points.

GHS began the third quarter strong with a lead of 43-29 with under 4 minutes to go. Marblehead made their comeback with a 7-2 run after a powerful defensive stand. The Magicians caused Gloucester to turn the ball over multiple times which led to easy layups. Marblehead brought the game to 47-41 at the end of the third.

The Magicians kept their press up until the last second of the game. Although breaking free multiple times, Gloucester’s shots were not falling. After Gloucester senior PJ Zappa hit an incredible clutch three, that sparked what seemed to be a little light in GHS. Unfortunately, after a close final minute, the game ended 62-58 Marblehead.

“The tale of two halves,” said assistant coach Tyler Coniglari.

Leading Scorers: Fisherman Thomas with 22 points, and Magician Tyrone Countrymon with 17.

GHS Basketball starts the season 0-1 and will play Swampscott on Friday the 17th