Play Unified dunks on competition

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Junior Alex Gomes plays defense against the Monroe player.

BY DAYAMI VILORIA
          The Play Unified basketball team has racked up wins so far this season. They currently hold a record of 6-1, including four double-digit wins.

          The team has played their recent games exceptionally while having a fun time. “I feel that the team has performed excellently,” added Karley Hazel. “So far in the season everyone has been playing their best and working hard while having a good time.”

          “[A highlight of the season so far is] Jamel’s 19-point game,” said Alex Gomes. In the team’s first game of the season, the Knights gained a huge win against Sparta, with a score of 44-31. Jamel Andrews led the team with 19 points.

Jemel Andrews, the team’s leading scorer, catches the ball while Erich Schikschneit moves into position on the wing.

          The team played a difficult game against Bridgewater-Raritan but only lost by one point. “I think we are doing great so far with only one tough loss, but I believe we are going to win a lot of games this year. We have so many great players,” said Anthony Pizzulli. The team came back on January 24, at Hillsborough, where they won 48-37.

          The crowd always lifts the players’ spirits throughout the games. “My favorite part of unified basketball is celebrating each point. Our bench is always loud, and at the pep rallies our crowd cheers us on,” said Sofia Cota.

Kyle Bassit spreads his arms and defends the lane against the opposing ball-handler.

          Play Unified gives people the opportunity to meet and connect with new people. “My favorite part of unified basketball was Hillsborough because I met Joe and Mr. Johnson,” said Adrian Yu.

           Play Unified creates a welcoming environment where students can collaborate and meet new people. “Play Unified is all about inclusivity and making students feel accepted with their peers. Students are given the opportunity to make new friends and connections, and I knew I wanted to be a part of that,” said Cota.

Junior Rohail Karim takes a shot from the block as his teammates get ready to rebound.

          On January 29, the team defeated Monroe for the second time this season. Though they played a close game, the team still stood on top and won. Frank Lorence led the team with 11 points. “[A teammate I think is doing really well is] Frank because he is a good leader, and he takes his time with all the kids. He is just a good role model,” said Jamel Andrews.

           Play Unified gets a rematch against Bridgewater-Raritan on the road this afternoon. Students can cheer on the team against Ridge High School on February 10 at 4:00 PM in the front gym.

Posted on 2/4/25

Photos by Katelyn Buchalter and Harold Denney