The Dexter boys’ basketball team might not be celebrating its decision to play a very tough team for its season opener in 2021 but in March they may take a completely different look at things.
The Dreadnaughts hosted Warren De La Salle on Tuesday night and while the defense was solid, Dexter’s offense never got off the ground. The Pilots, who feature seven players heading to college basketball in the near future, scored a 56-18 victory over their hosts just two days after the MHSAA cleared contact sports to begin playing – and begin making contact.
“We only had one real practice and it certainly showed on the offensive end,” said Dexter Coach Jason Rushtin. “But first and foremost it was great to be back on the court and given the opportunity to play. We are very excited about playing basketball this season.”
The Dreadnaughts struggled all night on offense, both taking care of the ball and shooting the ball. The Pilots did what good teams do, they took advantage of Dexter’s mistakes and cashed them in for baskets at the other end of the floor. De La Salle scored 24 points off 17 Dexter turnovers.
When the Dreadnaughts weren’t turning the ball over they were missing shots, including many open looks. But they also were playing solid defense at the other end of the floor. If you take away the points off turnovers, Dexter held one of the best teams in the state to 32 points.
“Other than the points off turnovers, our defensive effort was there all night,” said Rushtin. “We have to score the ball and take care of the ball. The score really doesn’t show how hard we worked and there is plenty to build on and we will get better.”
Colin Parachek led the Dreadnaughts 7 points and 6 rebounds. Sam Sterlitz, Evan Haroldson and Aidan Dexter all scored three points and Hayden Newton scored two for the Dreads.
De La Salle led 10-5 after the first quarter and 21-10 at halftime. The Pilots used an 18-5 third quarter to put the game out of reach. They outscored the Dreads 17-3 in the final quarter.
“We’ll be looking to turn around and prepare for Pinckney on the road Thursday,” Rushton said. “We’re glad to be back in action despite the outcome and thankful for the opportunity to be together and play a great game.”
After Thursday’s game at Pinckney, the Dreadnaughts head down to Bedford to face the Kicking Mules at 7 p.m. on Saturday.
