Windham unified basketball team gets skilled win over South Portland

Windham junior AJ Mains pauses a moment before shooting a
basket during the Eagles' Unified basketball victory on the
road against South Portland High School on Feb. 3.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA 

By Matt Pascarella

The Windham unified basketball team traveled to South Portland on Thursday, Feb. 3 for their third game of the season as Windham looked to continue its success this year.

The Eagles had a very strong start as they scored over 30 points in the first half. After four powerhouse quarters where everyone on the Windham team contributed, the Eagles walked off the court with an impressive 65-44 win over the Red Riots.

Windham sophomore Jacob Smith got things started when he scored early in the game. Windham senior Cameron Malone put up 12 points in the first half.

Windham was quick to rebound early on, too. Senior Austin Rice scored. Windham freshman Colby Schmid hit a three-pointer in the first quarter. Windham senior Kayla Fillinger had multiple baskets in the first half.

Junior Dani Iaconeta scored with a great shot for the Eagles.

“I really love basketball so much,” said Iaconeta. “I just want to thank my friends and my two coaches.”

She said that she had fun during the game.

Windham’s offense and defense were spectacular. For most of the first half, Windham had a comfortable lead over South Portland. As the half wound down, South Portland began to catch up.

Windham had nice hustle and strong passes. At the half, the Eagles led 31-20.

There was no lack of effort or intensity as the second half began. Windham continued to put point after point on the scoreboard as they pulled away and gained a more substantial lead. Windham senior Jayden Kilpatrick scored. So did junior AJ Mains from just inside the three-point line.

Mains said the team had good shooting and defense. He also had fun during the game.

Windham kept up the good work until the clock ran out.

“We have a great team this year,” said Windham unified basketball coach Anne Blake. “They are playing like they are a team; they have learned to pass; they have learned how to rebound and to share the ball. We’re very, very proud of them; they are a great team.”

Blake added the team is progressing on all fronts: offense, defense, everything. They are really working hard and together during their games.  <