Heading into the final week of the regular season, the Dragon basketball team had already surpassed expectations for the season. In the preseason rankings the Dragons were predicted to finish last — last — in Oakland Activities Association (OAA) play.
But as of March 9, they were ranked eighth in the entire association and tied for third in the OAA white division.
Dragons opened the March 1 week at Rochester Adams (seated fourth in OAA) — a team looking to keep its chances alive for the division title. The last time these two teams met, it was a very physical defensive battle and that night would be no exception.
Dragons came out strong in the first half, playing a very physical defense, forcing turnovers and out rebounding the Highlanders to take 21- 18 lead at the half.
All season, the Highlanders have been known to have one of the toughest defenses in the league, and the second half would show why. As it began, Dragons kept the game close but watched their lead slip and the Highlanders take a one-point lead heading into the fourth period.
It was then the Highlanders defense took control of the game and shut down the Dragons. Adams would go on a 20-7 run and win the game 54-40.
Lead scorers were Derek Schrauben and Steve Dolinski, with nine each. John Williamson added six and Alex Mayo had five.
After the game, Coach Mike Shafkalis said ‘I knew this would be a very physical game and that Adams would be a very tough game to win on their court.?
He added, ‘Our main goal for the week is to get ready for districts and tonight’s game was part of that process.?
Thursday, March 4, Dragons hosted the Troy Colts, looking to finish the season strong. It was also Senior Night and the final home game for a group of seniors who played a big part in helping turn the program around.
Their determination to prove that Lake Orion can compete at a high level set the tone for the season and for years to come. This year’s seniors are Alex Mayo, Derek Schrauben, Todd Wolverton, Paul Couretas, Ian Monk, John Williamson, Kyle Mundie and Brain Wandschneider.
The March 4 game opened up very slowly, with both team looking tentative in their play with Dragons leading 9-5 at the end of the quarter. Things would dramatically change as the Dragons began to open up the game, playing a very aggressive, fast-paced game and would take a 30-19 lead into the half.
The second half would be no different as the Dragons dominated the remainder of the game and would go on to win 66 – 49. Lead Scorers were Mayo with 18, Wolverton and Schrauben with eight each, and Steve Dolinski and Rich Eaton with six.
Coach Shafkalis said after the game, ‘It was a great way to send off a great bunch of Seniors. Hopefully we can take the momentum into districts and extend our season?.
The Dragons played Stoney Creek Monday night. Look to next week’s Review for the results.