With February break looming, Week 9 delivered the perfect mix of breakthrough performances and championship-caliber grit. The story of resilience belonged to Coach King’s 6th Grade Girls, who improved to 6-2 with a road win over Medfield despite playing without Lennon King and Josie Brower (both sidelined with broken bones). The 4th Grade Girls (Red) authored the most dominant performance of the week, routing Mansfield 24-15 behind Maya Bernstein’s 6 points and double-digit steals. Coach Ennis’s 5th Grade Girls (White) delivered the weekend drama, edging Winchester 23-22 in a thriller that had Adams Gymnasium “sounding like the old garden” in the fourth quarter. Coach Peterson’s 5th Grade Boys (White) earned their second win with a composed 33-20 road victory at Millis, while Coach Flannery’s 5th Grade Boys (Red) bounced back on Super Bowl Sunday with a 31-15 win over Medford—doing what the Patriots couldn’t. The boys’ championship runs continued with Coach Gum’s 6th Grade Boys (Red) notching their seventh straight win in a 58-32 rout, setting up a massive showdown with undefeated Lincoln-Sudbury after break. Coach McDonough’s 7th Grade Boys survived their toughest test yet, staying perfect at 9-0 against a physical Millis squad. Multiple comeback victories, injury-depleted rosters showing heart, and two undefeated teams rolling toward a title clash—February break can’t come soon enough.
GIRLS:
4th Grade Girls (Red)
Coach: King
The 4th Grade Girls Panthers (Red) earned an emphatic 24–15 road victory this weekend at the Mass Premier Courts against Mansfield, showcasing a true team effort from start to finish. Several players delivered breakout performances, led by Maya Bernstein with 6 points and double-digit steals, and Avery Jacquet and Devaney King, who each poured in 7 points to spark the offense. Natalie Negri ran the point with confidence, contributing 2 points while playing a stellar all-around defensive game, and Rose Weinburg added a thrilling buzzer-beater jumper to close the third quarter. Adriana Dello-Iacono anchored the defense with lockdown intensity, while Hannah Kane, Evelyn Dellicker, Sloane Miller, and Kate Robertson played outstanding help defense and dominated the boards. It was an exciting and well-earned win on the road, a great reward for a season filled with hard work and effort. The girls look ahead to hosting Westwood at home this Sunday—best of luck to all teams this weekend!
Next game: Sunday at home vs. Westwood
5th Grade Girls (White)
Coach: Ennis
Holliston 5th grade white team played Winchester this Sunday and you would have thought it was the old garden with the sound coming from the stands in the 4th quarter.
The girls played a tremendous game creating turnovers throughout the game. In total the ladies had 25 steals and 5 blocks. Each lady did something this past Sunday to will their team to a hard-fought victory.
It was a battle from the beginning after the first quarter it was 6-5 lead for the ladies. Sienna Marino (3 rebounds) set up a remarkable screen which lead to a beautiful floater by Harper Sochanek (2 points 3 rebounds 3 steals).
In the second quarter ladies got the lead up to 5 leading 14-9 at the break. Lily Ennis went hard to the basket got fouled and was able to sink both foul shots. She was all over the defensive end, having a number of jump ball tie ups (4 points, 9 rebounds and 6 steals). Sarah Cullen played her best game of the season hauling down 3 rebounds and 3 steals.
Ladies kept up the defense effort in the third quarter and kept attacking on the offense end to keep the lead 19-14. Charlotte Donohue (2 points 4 rebounds and 2 steals) had an offensive rebound which led to an easy put back. Brighton Swenson was all over the court played lights out defense with 2 rebounds and a monster block to keep the ladies at a 5-point lead. Charlotte Elwell contributed with 5 rebounds, 3 steals and led the team in assist with 3.
Fourth quarter started up with a 4-0 run by Winchester, cutting the lead to 1. The girls dug deep on defense to create a steal and which led to a fast break layup to stop the run and go back up one. Girls traded buckets giving Winchester the led by 1 with under a minute to go. The Holliston ladies wouldn’t be stopped and kept crashing the offensive glass. Finally able to get the go-ahead basket with 30 seconds to go. The white team was able to create a turnover giving them the ball with 10 seconds to go. The ladies turned it over unfortunately, but with one last attempt by Winchester the girls weren’t even able to get off a shot. The defensive effort the girls had was phenomenal. They were able to hold onto the lead giving them a 23-22 win.
Special thanks to coach Higgens 4th grade team boys for the extra noise they brought to Adams gym. Ladies are on the road next Sunday going against a Natick.
Next game: Sunday vs. Natick (away)
5th Grade Girls (Red)
Coach: Cooper
The 5th Grade Girls Red team were on the road for the second week in a row against Milton. The Panthers welcomed Lilah Rowe back from injured reserve, and Rowe wasted no time making her presence felt, leading the game with 6 steals and notching 5 rebounds. Despite Rowe’s return, the Panthers fell in another closely contested game, 20-14. Madeline Cooper led the scoring charge with a game high 6 points, while Catherine Levasseur (4 points), Reagan Taylor (2 points), and Jaxy Mix (2 points) also found themselves in the scoring column.
The Panthers brought the game within 2 points with a second half charge after buckets from Cooper and Levasseur, and Holliston put on the full court press in the last couple minutes of the game, but it was not enough for the athletic Milton team.
The 5th Grade Girls Red team, who have seen 3 different players on injured reserve this season for extended time, are looking to have their full lineup back for the home stretch of the season. It’s been a season of tight games for the 5th graders, who have now lost 4 games by a combined total of 8 points, one of which the games went to overtime. The Panthers are back home for a weekend doubleheader vs Westwood and Parkway.
Next games:
Saturday at home vs. Westwood
Sunday vs. Parkway (away)
6th Grade Girls (White)
Coach: Wing
The 6th Grade Girls Panthers (White) travel team played Hopkinton this weekend and walked away with a disappointing loss.
The Panthers came out on fire in the first quarter, dominating the score board 6-0. However, Hopkinton turned it up in the 2nd quarter putting 9 points up and unfortunately, Holliston’s shots were not falling and defense was weak.
Our girls tried hard, but just could not gain momentum again, which ultimately led to a tough loss. Even though the game did not end well, Nora Corcoran played one of her best games of the season! Her aggressiveness and determination led to multiple steals and an awesome layup. Signe Strand, who was captain of the game, stood strong and tall under the hoop putting up multiple shots, 2 being successful. Amelia Parker also added to the girl’s overall score with another 10 points this game.
If the Panthers can continue to work on consistency, stay focused and play hard, more games will end in their favor. They will need to bring double the fire to their next game vs The Roxbury Latin School.
Next game: Sunday vs. Roxbury Latin School (away)
6th Grade Girls (Black)
Coach: King
The 6th Grade Girls Panthers (Black) earned an impressive road win over Medfield, improving their record to 6–2 on the season. Winnie McHugh delivered a standout performance, asserting herself in the post, running the floor with intensity, and leading the way with 10 points. Katelyn Klein attacked the basket at will, adding 8 points along with multiple blocks, while Josie Brower stepped up to run the point amid injuries and illness, showcasing her passing ability with several assists and contributing 4 points. She connected beautifully with Millie Guellnitz (2 points) on a well-executed pick-and-roll that highlighted skills the team has been sharpening in practice. Brooke McGrath played strong defense and finished an impressive reverse layup, and Richa Yedugani and Izzy Bartels shared ball-handling duties while bringing tough defense and hustle to every loose ball. Despite being hit hard by injuries and illness— with Josie Brower and Lennon King currently sidelined with broken bones—the team continues to show resilience and commitment. Their injured players remain present and supportive, working to improve in any way they can while cheering on their teammates. The Panthers are off this weekend and look forward to a strong, healthy return after February break. Best of luck to all teams in their upcoming games!
7th Grade Girls (Red)
Coach: Cooper
The Holliston 7th grade girls travel team played a spirited game against Easton on Sunday at the Dana Barros basketball center in Stoughton. Trailing after the first quarter, Holliston controlled every facet of the game in the second stanza to take a three-point lead into halftime. After briefly surrendering the lead, they battled back to tie the game at 15-15 before surrendering a pair of late baskets, while a barrage of Holliston shots rimmed and bounced out. Final score: Easton 19, Holliston 15.
Everyone on the team contributed to the solid outing. Charley Marcuard and Ellie Brown led the scoring, played dominant backcourt defense, and facilitated a crisp passing offense throughout the first half. Aarya Sharma swallowed up Easton shots, tallying a career high 4 blocks — all in the first half. Emma Whitehead had 4 steal in a feisty second half. Becca Lindros, Ryckie Reichheld, and Brooke Sawicki each nailed midrange jumpers. The Panthers look to notch a win next week on the road at Parkway.
Next game: Sunday vs. Parkway (away)
BOYS:
5th Grade Boys (White)
Coach: Peterson
MILLIS-The Holliston Panthers hit the road this week and delivered a strong all-around performance, earning their second victory of the season with a 33-20 win over Millis.
From the opening tip, the Panthers set the tone. Crisp ball movement and aggressive defense fueled a 12-6 first-quarter advantage — a lead they would never relinquish. Holliston controlled the tempo early, forcing turnovers and converting key opportunities to build momentum in a tough road environment.
Charlie Ogoreuc led a balanced scoring attack with 10 points and added 6 rebounds, setting the pace on both ends of the floor. JT Barry chipped in 8 points with timely baskets, while Finn Rogers contributed 6 points to keep the offense humming. Henry Paine added 3 points and 5 rebounds, providing steady interior play.
The Panthers’ dominance on the glass played a major role in the victory. Oskar Peterson led a strong team rebounding effort, grabbing 10 boards to go along with his 2 points. Leo Patka pulled down 5 rebounds and energized the team with a highlight-worthy coast-to-coast basket for his 2 points. Benjamin Leach also contributed 5 rebounds and 2 points, while showcasing his playmaking ability with a couple of sharp assists that led to key scores. David Girgis showed what grit and determination are all about, securing 4 rebounds of his own and playing intense, physical defense that frustrated Millis throughout the night.
Millis battled hard in the middle quarters, tightening up defensively and looking to chip away at the deficit. But every time the hosts threatened, the Panthers responded with composure and teamwork.
Leading by a slim margin heading into the fourth quarter, Holliston saved its best for last. The Panthers locked down defensively and executed efficiently on offense, outscoring Millis 8-2 in the final frame to close out the 33-20 victory in impressive fashion.
With balanced scoring, relentless rebounding, and a commitment to team defense, the Panthers showed poise and resilience on the road. Holliston will look to carry that momentum forward as they play a home game against Canton at noon on Sunday.
Next game: Sunday at home vs. Canton, 12PM
5th Grade Boys (Red)
Coach: Flannery
Although Super Bowl Sunday turned out to be an absolute dud for the boys from Foxborough, it was not all doom and gloom for the Holliston 5th Grade Boys Red Squad. Our 5th graders did what the Patriots could not do, emerged victorious with a hard fought 31-15 victory over a large and Seahawk like defensive minded Medford team. Holliston took advantage of Medford’s long trek to town with a fast paced first quarter attack. The Home squad blitzed Medford like the Seattle “Dark Side” defense from the opening tap. Holliston opened a 12-3 lead after the first quarter and never looked back. Max Page led the team with 6 first quarter points (8 total for the game) and set the pace for his teammates with his high energy level. Jayce Sweet continued his solid play with 4 first half points, highlighted by a laser like coast-to-coast layup with defenders in hot pursuit. Max Burian fought through a hard foul, and injury, to return to the game and contribute 8 big points. Medford’s front court held a considerable size advantage over the Holliston crew, however that did not stop Reid Polack and Jameson Drake from outworking them consistently at both ends of the court. Reid and Jamo proved it’s not the size of the dog in the fight, but rather the size of the fight in the dog that counts! Their efforts played a huge role in this win. Center Cam Chiantera played his steady, reliable, tough “Robert Parrish” style game. Cam has a “Chief” like intimidating presence on the court setting screens and rebounding. We just have to get him to be not so nice and smile as much and work on his scowl. Cam finished with 2 points. Keegan Flannery fought through a lot of contact from the rough and tumble Medford crew to finish with 9 points. The team sits on a 5-3 record heading into a big post Valentine’s Day showdown with Framingham Sunday morning. Hopefully, the boys rest up and don’t break curfew on date night with their Sweethearts.
Next game: Sunday vs. Framingham (away)
6th Grade Boys (White)
Coach: Lyskowski
Holliston faced a tough and deep Milford team this past Sunday, losing 40-9. Jake Looney led the Panthers with 6 second-half points and Sam Wagner added the other 3. Jesiah Varghese grabbed 7 rebounds, and Holliston finished strong, limiting Milford to 4 points in the final quarter.
Next game: Sunday vs. Arlington (away) 8:45AM.
6th Grade Boys (Black)
Coach: Donohue
Fresh off their win last week, Holliston 6th grade boys (Black) “Hornets” travelled to neighboring Dover-Sherborn High School looking to extend their winning streak. Despite jumping out off the blocks with an early steal and quick 2 from Ronan Ojha, the boys struggled to keep up with the fast-paced Dover Sherborn team. Ronan added 6 more points throughout the game to end with 8 points. Neel Lele and Jack Donahue each added 4 points while Henry Cuneen chipped in a bucket in the 3rd quarter. Despite a late surge in the 4th, winning that quarter by 2 points, the boys left it too late and lost this game 18-36. The Holliston boys stay on the road this week, travelling to Watertown before the February break.
Next game: Sunday vs. Watertown (away)
6th Grade Boys (Red)
Coach: Gum
The Holliston 6th Grade Boys (Red) team took the court of the Robert Adams Jungle this past Sunday looking for their 7th win in a row against visiting Natick. These boys did not disappoint the fired-up crowd and came out with tons of energy, pressing from the opening tip. Some early turnovers caused by Darian Harris and Andrew Levasseur saw great ball movement leading to an in rhythm 3 hit by Dylan Maillet and 4 quick points by Tyler Crean. However, Natick did not go away and did a great job of working through the press and keeping the pressure on through the first period. Holliston took an early lead into the second period 11-6. In the second period Holliston kept the pressure on and added to their lead. Max Cohen set the pace with 2 of his four steals in the second period and Geroge Taylor hit the first of his three 3-pointers. The boys took a 24-13 lead into the half. The third period was a back-and-forth affair dominated by Grady Gum. Grady scored at will and scored 8 of his 10 total points in the frame. However, Natick kept it close and did not miss a shot for a 4-minute stretch. However, the press D was just too much for Natick and Holliston extended their lead 41-25. The fourth quarter was dominated by Harrison Cirillo scoring 4 of his 7 points and pulled down 6 total boards. George drilled two threes’ putting the nail in the coffin, stopping the press and dribbling out the game. Yamori Richardson had a season high 8 rebounds and added four points leading to a final score of 58-32. The boys enter February break looking for some rest as the game this upcoming weekend got moved. Then on February 22nd, at 1:30PM at the Robert Adams Jungle undefeated and top of the standings Lincoln-Sudbury come to town presenting the boys biggest test of the season.
See you there!
Next game: Sunday (2/22) at home vs. Lincoln/Sudbury, 1:30PM.
7th Grade Boys (White)
Coach: Sgarano
The Holliston 7th Grade Boys Team (White) lost a close game against Canton, 38-31, on Saturday afternoon at Dana Barros. Holliston came out hot, taking a 2 point lead after the first quarter. The teams battled for the next three quarters, riling up the crowd with multiple lead changes until the final minutes of the game. Canton hit two 3 pointers late to seal the win.
David Blackerby had a double double for Holliston, with 12 points and 11 rebounds. Joe Sgarano had 7 points and 7 rebounds, while Owen Callahan had 6 points. Cooper Lisi, Jacob Snow, and Ryllan Kelley also had baskets for Holliston. Oliver Bennett chipped in with 2 rebounds.
Holliston was back on the road on Sunday afternoon in Raynham. Holliston got off to another hot start, and took the lead after the first quarter. Ultimately Raynham’s shooting proved to be too much, and they pulled away for a 55-33 win.
Joe Sgarano led Holliston with a game high 16 points. Ryllan Kelley had 8 points. David Blackerby had 5 points and 8 rebounds. Max Metivier and Cooper Lisi each had a basket and combined for 13 rebounds.
Despite the final outcome of the games this weekend, Holliston is playing their best basketball of the season and the future is bright. Over the first 5 games of the season, Holliston averaged just 10 points per game and gave up an average of 48 points to their opponents. Over their last 3 games, Holliston is averaging 30 points per game and are allowing 38. Holliston will battle Hopkinton this Sunday afternoon at Adams Middle School.
Next game: Sunday at home vs. Hopkinton
7th Grade Boys (Red)
Coach: McDonough
Holliston faced their toughest test of the season so far against a big, aggressive Millis squad. The Panthers came out strong with center George Floeckher scoring 8 of his 10 points in the first quarter en route to a 13-4 lead. But Millis came roaring back in the second quarter, limiting Holliston to 4 points and surging to an 18-17 lead.
Trailing at halftime for the first time all season, Coach McDonough made key in-game adjustments to counter the Millis attack. Guards Logan McDonough (4 points) and Teddy Miller (4 assists) turned up the intensity on defense to hold Millis to 10 second-half points, including just 3 in the 4th quarter, and guard Ryan Baker (5 points) drained a clutch corner 3 with just under 2 minutes remaining to give Holliston much-needed breathing room.
Big man Ty Looney added 4 points, including a big bucket from a Miller drive-and-dish in the 4th, as the Panthers stretched their undefeated record to 9-0.
Next game: Sunday at home vs. Needham
8th Grade Boys (Black)
Coach: Keller
The story of this season so far has been Holliston starting slow and clawing their way back into the game and that occurred once again on Super Bowl Sunday. Dedham built an 11-1 lead after the first quarter, expanding to 19-7 at the half. Holliston’s defense took over after the break, holding Dedham scoreless in the third, eventually pulling within 2 in the last two minutes of the game. While not having quite enough to pull out the victory, the team continues to show improvement as we approach the final weeks of the season. Nick Gorham led all scorers on the day with 10 points. Leo Wagner added 3 while Nolan Burke, Stone Secaur, and Daniel Levens added 2. Noah Keller closed out Holliston’s scoring by adding a foul shot. Special thanks to Team Kanavich player Daniel Levens for joining the team offering bench depth. Holliston hosts Parkway on Saturday, February 21 and Westboro on Sunday, February 22.
Next games:
Saturday at home vs. Parkway
Sunday at home vs. Westboro
8th Grade Boys (Red)
Coach: Magoon
The 8th Grade Boys (Red) team had a thrilling comeback victory this weekend against Wellesley. After trailing by as many as 11 points, the boys got their game together late in the second quarter and carried that momentum into a dominant second half, finishing with a 53-39 win. While everyone contributed to the team win, Dylan Parrett’s second half effort on defense and clutch shooting was a main driver of the win. Gavin Bausch was the leading scorer with 13 points, followed by Nathan Eppinger with 12 points, Dylan with 9 points, Micah Baltisoto with 6 points, Ryan Magoon with 5 points, Joseph Lawendi and Laksh Khatri with 4 points a each. Devon Doray chipped in with 5 rebounds and multiple steals to help set up the scoring. It was great to see the team fight back from a sizable deficit and overcome the early adversity.
Next game: Sunday vs. Ashland (away)
