This weekend, the Delbarton basketball program is poised to make a statement as all three levels – freshman, junior varsity (JV), and varsity – gear up for the county tournament championships. With each team exhibiting outstanding performances throughout the season, anticipation is running high as they aim to clinch titles in their respective divisions.
The freshman team, under the guidance of coaches RJ Cobbs and Will Davies, has been on a remarkable journey, with a stellar record of 20-3 and riding an impressive 11-game winning streak into the championship showdown. Their success is the formidable trio affectionately dubbed the "three-headed monster" – Collin Pajunas, Finn O'Loughlin, and Jackson Lain.
Lain, with his playmaking skills, has been a key facilitator for the team, averaging 8 points and 3.5 assists per game. O'Loughlin brings a blend of athleticism and versatility to the court, contributing an average of 9.5 points and 6 rebounds per game. Meanwhile, Pajunas has earned a reputation as a tough defender, with his timely contributions extending on defensive end, including a clutch three-pointer that propelled the team to an overtime victory against Mendham, preserving their winning streak.
However, the success of the freshman team extends beyond its star players, with notable contributions from John Fodor, Ryan Shannon, Ryan Moumjidan, Tyler Carifa, Will McBride, Ben Delong, Brandon Fodor, and others. Their collective effort and teamwork have been instrumental in the team's journey to the county final, where they are set to face off against Randolph.
Meanwhile, the JV squad, led by coach Matt White, has also enjoyed a phenomenal season, sitting at an impressive 20-2 record and stringing together an impressive eight-game winning streak. Their path to the county final saw them overcome tough opponents like Roxbury and Montville, with standout performances from Veer Dhall, who anchored the team with a 20-point effort in a crucial victory.
The starting five of Alex Choi, Will Meehan, Thomas Settle, and Andrew McDavit have been the backbone of the JV team, consistently delivering solid performances on both ends of the floor. Brayden Garcia, Colin Brady , Marty Hindelong and Preston Khubani all play vital minutes off the bench for the Green Wave. The team's hard work has paid off, earning a berth in the JV County Tournament final, where they are set to square off against Madison.
At the varsity level, first-year head coach Matt Crane has steered the team to a successful campaign, marked by notable victories over Mt. Olive, West Morris, and Madison in the semifinals. Led by standout players Mike Van Raaphorst, Lincoln Zimmermann, and Patrick Mahoney, Delbarton has set its sights on a third consecutive county championship as they prepare to face familiar foe Mendham in the final showdown.
The stage is set for a thrilling weekend of basketball as all three levels of the Delbarton Basketball program vie for county tournament glory.
