By Ben Wistar ’26
Student Writer, Bearcat Sports Media

Boys Varsity Basketball played a tough game against Avon, losing by a score of 74-56. It was a hard game for the Bearcats, who played from behind for the whole game. Hotchkiss made several attempts to come back, but Avon kept up the pace, never letting Hotchkiss get more than a couple buckets without getting one of their own.

Photos from Playsight Livestream

The game was preceded by a speech by captain Will Groot ’23 about the One Love Foundation. The One Love Foundation is a foundation doing great things to educate young people about the importance of healthy relationships and the signs of abusive relationships.

The game started with a couple quick points from Hotchkiss. Avon took over quickly, building their lead to 16, a lead they would maintain for most of the game. Hotchkiss had spells of offense where they were able to make it close, but Avon never let them take the lead. Hotchkiss’ efforts would continue to be equaled by Avon, and Hotchkiss trailed to end the half.

During halftime, spectators were treated to a shooting competition between Dan Gilbane ’24 and Eleanor Helm ’25. The competition had both attempting to make a layup, a freethrow, a three pointer, and a half court shot. Both contestants breezed through the first three shots, but the half court shot would prove to be too much for them, with neither able to sink the shot before time expired. 

The second half commenced with more of the same. Hotchkiss hit three after three, but Avon was just as good at the other end of the court, not letting Hotchkiss get the upper hand. With the game coming to a close, Avon pressed their advantage, extending their lead to upwards of 20 points. Hotchkiss would claw back a couple points, but it wouldn’t be enough, with the game ending in Avon’s favor, 74-56.