WAKELAND HIGH SCHOOL – In a pivotal early-season District 6-5A clash with significant playoff implications, the boy’s basketball team showcased resilience and determination, securing a crucial 56-52 away victory over district rival Wakeland Wolverines on Tuesday night. Coming into the game, Frisco held an 8-9 season record and a 2-1 district record, while Wakeland stood at 4-12 overall and 2-1 in district play.

First-Half Standoff:

Both teams entered the game with competitive spirits, setting the stage for a closely contested matchup. The first quarter concluded dramatically as sophomore forward Matthew Ellis drained a buzzer-beating 3-pointer, knotting the score at 12-12. The second quarter maintained intensity, with junior guard Hudson Ewing’s 8-point contribution aiding the Raccoons in maintaining a slim 24-23 lead at halftime.

Trey Dancer’s Second-Half Brilliance:

Coming out from the halftime break, Senior Guard Trey Dancer electrified the court, delivering an offensive explosion. Dancer’s 11-point third quarter, highlighted by a pivotal “and-one” (When a player is fouled while scoring a shot – the player is awarded on a free throw. If the player makes the free throw) layup, ignited the Raccoons’ offense. However, Wakeland countered, tallying 19 points in the quarter, giving them a temporary 42-41 lead heading into the final quarter.

Brotherhood Shines in Closing Moments:

The fourth quarter showcased Frisco’s tenacity, with Dancer continuing his seamless display, contributing 7 points and orchestrating key plays, including a pass to Senior Guard Saatvikk Barla, which led to a crowd-silencing three-pointer that further bolstered the Raccoons’ momentum. In the game’s decisive moments, Senior Forward Andrew Ellis sealed the victory, executing a crucial steal in the closing seconds which can be seen below, thwarting Wakeland’s comeback aspirations. Matthew Ellis, Andrew’s younger brother, secured the game’s final points, converting one of two free throws, solidifying a significant district win for the Raccoons.

Playoff Implications and Brotherhood:

With this pivotal victory, the Frisco Raccoons ascend to third place in the district standings, positioning themselves favorably for a playoff push. Conversely, the Wakeland Wolverines find themselves tied for fourth place with Reedy and Newman Smith, emphasizing the competitive nature of District 6-5A. The victory emphasizes the Raccoon’s unity and brotherhood, shown by the collective efforts of players and coaches, setting the stage for potential playoff success and the quest for back-to-back postseason appearances. The full boxscore of the game can be seen down below.