Glenn Dribbles Past Blue Devils, 56-30
Mike Kaplan had a positive attitude going into the Huntington High School girls' basketball game last Saturday afternoon, but perennial state power John H. Glenn put on an early show and its supremacy was never really threatened en route to a 56-30 non-league victory.
Kaplan is in his second season as the Blue Devils' head coach and his team is young. So, while he wasn't happy to lose a game, he kept it in perspective. "We're young and our kids were a little intimidated," Kaplan said. "They are defending county champs. We will do well in the league."
The Knights burst out of the starting gate and quickly built a large lead on their way to a 17-5 advantage by the close of the first quarter. Huntington was a little more competitive in the second frame, despite being outscored in the second eight minute set, 13-9.
Trailing 30-14 at halftime, the game didn't get any easier for Huntington. Glenn continued its rugged play, extending its lead to 51-22 by the end of three quarters. The Blue Devils couldn't contain the Knights' sensational forward Allison McKenna, who bagged 23 points and pulled down 14 rebounds. Emma Klis added 11 points.
Huntington was led by 6'1 freshman forward Heather Forster, who tallied nine points. Freshman Katie Nugent and junior Raynisha Witherspoon pumped in five points each, respectively.
It's hard to get Kaplan down. With seven freshmen on the roster, he knows the Blue Devils will need time to mature. He also realizes that this could be the start of a very special era for Huntington.