By Dominic Rapposelli
Sports Editor
Washington College men’s basketball currently sits at 6-9 after securing their first Centennial Conference victory over Muhlenberg College 71-60 on Jan. 18.
Senior forward Ethan Schwantes spearheaded the effort, putting up a career best 27 points, in addition to a career-topping 16 rebounds. On the day, he went 7-11 from the floor, and 13-16 from the free throw line to help secure the victory. Schwantes has enjoyed a career season with WC, scoring 105 points, averaging seven per outing and just under six rebounds per game, including winning his first Shoreman of the Week award.
The Shoremen scored first with a three pointer from senior forward Precieux Tshibangu 38 seconds into the contest, the first of four successful attempts from beyond the arch. From the opening jump, the Shoremen were all gas no breaks as they outscored their opponents in both halves leading 30-22 at the intermission.
The Shoremen have played their most complimentary ball of the season over the last quartet of outings, going 2-2 over that stretch but seeing an uptick in scoring and defense.
Another instance of a total team has been the play of the WC freshmen. Forward Ty Woodland has started all 15 games for the Shoremen, averaging just under eight points per game and setting a career high in single game assists with three against the Mules. Guard Nicho Simes has also started 15 games, averaging 6 points per game.
Fellow freshman guard Nolan Waldon is averaging a team best 12.6 points per game and leads the team in total takeaways with 36.
“Defense has always been a big part of my game. Since I was young, getting stops on defense gets me going. But getting steals is not something I really work on, it was just a gift I had from when I began playing basketball. For me it’s just about timing, reads and anticipation so it’s just kind of easy for me to get steals,” Waldon said.
These first years are getting valuable minutes as the season progresses, which complements the returning players who have also come into their own.
“My first season at WC has been fun and also challenging. Being a freshman playing lots of minutes comes with a lot of pressure but it’s making me a better player for my career getting this kind of experience this early,” Waldon said.
The Shoremen will continue Centennial Conference play on Jan. 25. when they host the Haverford College Fords.
Photo Courtesy of washcollsports.
Photo Caption: The Shoremen picked up their first Centennial Conference win over the Muhlenberg College Mules.