In an intensive match-up against Cedar Ridge, the varsity boys basketball team showcased their relentless defense and advanced teamwork skills, winning 70-29. From the tip-off Westwood took control, started forcing turnovers and capitalized on Cedar Ridge’s mistakes to begin their snowball.
Despite losing the opening tip, the Warriors quickly made their presence felt, stopping Cedar Ridges’ first offensive attempt which was followed by a layup from Thomas Burke ‘25. Next, demonstrating the Warriors’ range, Landyn Vallery ‘26 held a tight defense, forcing a jump ball, and a series of passes between Summer Holland ‘26 and Indy McBrearty ‘25 that resulted in an easy layup. Losing many opportunities to score, Cedar Ridge began to struggle to find power, missing many shots and allowing the Warriors to press forward with ease. Continuing throughout the quarter, Luke Carpenter ‘26 stepped up defensively, making impressive blocks to prevent any Raider layups. On the offensive side, it was a similar story. With quick steals by McBrearty chained by threes from Burke, the end of the first quarter came quick as the Warriors led 14-5. Despite the foul on his final shot of the first quarter, he missed both free throws, but Warriors’ defensive pressure ensured Cedar Ridge couldn’t close the gap.
“We [had] a lot of passionate defense. We take defense really seriously, because defense wins games,” Dillon Garza ‘25 said. “We got a lot of stops, and that led to a lot of fast breaks and a lot of buckets.”
The Warriors dominance continued as Cedar Ridge started the second quarter with possession but failed to convert it into anything. Vallery intercepted a pass and passed to McBreatry, who nailed another three-pointer, keeping the Warriors far ahead of the competition. The defensive effort, supported by Vallery, kept Cedar Ridge on their heels, leading to more offensive dominance. Cedar Ridge managed a brief rally, leading to a three-pointer, but Burke answered with another layup, setting the warriors 33-9 at the half.
“All we had to do was just slow the ball, play at our pace,” Garza said. “Don’t let them in our head or anything like that. During the beginning we were already up by a lot, so no need to rush.”
The Warriors started the second half strong, with Burke sinking two free throws and Tyson Woods ‘25 locking down the net. Soon, despite a few missed shots, the team remained strong, as McBrearty spun through defenders to set up Burke for another easy layup. Cedar Ridge’s frustration showed as their shot selection worsened, allowing Westwood to maximize possession as the Raiders continued to panic.
“I think we just played well from the start, so we kinda just cruised through the game,” McBrearty said.
The final quarter saw Cedar Ridge’s efforts to fall short, again. Burke’s defensive pressure and Carpenter’s rebounds kept the Warriors in control. Delivering a dunk from a fast break, Carpenter kept the crowd vibrant. Wilson and Henry Bell ‘25 worked effectively, as Wilson sank a three-pointer to cap off the game 70-29 . “[Since the beginning of the season] I think we’ve [improved on] principles: defense, passing, taking charges, getting rebounds, and we’ve just gotten better throughout the season,” McBrearty said. “I’m just looking forward to each game.”
The Warriors will next face off against the Manor Mustangs, on the road on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m.