GHS Boys Basketball won its first game of the season at home last night. The Fishermen beat the Winthrop Vikings 66-43. Gloucester’s tough defense and ambition at the basket led them to success.

“Always great getting a win at home in front of the fans,” captain Zach Oliver said. “The team played really well together on defense. We need to keep this effort in order to keep winning.” 

GHS started the game off hot on defense when senior Nathaniel Oaks stole the ball from the Vikings which led to captain Jack Patten scoring the game’s first points. The Fishermen played hard man-to-man defense throughout the first, which caused the Vikings numerous turnovers. As a result of their defense, Gloucester’s offense played successfully in transition and finished contested layups and floaters. The Fishermen ended the first quarter up 16-7.

Winthrop brought out their press defense in the second against Gloucester but it proved unsuccessful. Gloucester’s second quarter was highlighted by a steal by PJ Zappa which led to a 3 pointer from Oliver. GHS Basketball concluded the second quarter up 31-25.

The third quarter stayed in the Fishermen’s favor highlighted by Patten’s step-back 3 pointer at the top of the key. GHS Basketball kept the Vikings to 5 points in the quarter and finished up 44-30.

Gloucester’s defense kept strong the whole night contesting shots and rebounding. Oliver tore up the Vikings in the fourth quarter. Oliver effortlessly drove to the basket and was given multiple attempts at the line. Gloucester played unselfish basketball and a layup between Byron Thomas and Oliver in the final moments showed that. The game ended 66-43 Gloucester.

Oliver led Gloucester with 26 points.

“This was a big one for us, we really needed it,” said Head Coach Adam Philpott. “I thought they really came out and played hard and that was pretty much the message. I’m proud of them, everyone stepped up, and hopefully we can use this as some momentum moving forward.”

Gloucester moves on to 1-3 and looks to face Manchester Essex in the Bank Gloucester Tournament this upcoming Monday.