New Trier sinks Maine West

Maine West's first boys basketball experience of the season ended with a 62-30 loss to New Trier Saturday but the Warriors were just happy to be competing.

Daniel Prieto had a team-high 8 points for Maine West.

"It was great to have the season happen and to have the first game," Prieto said. "It didn't go the way we wanted, but it will show our true character in the long run for us to bounce back.

"I was a little anxious, but I like having those feelings to come out and compete," Prieto added. "I think our team was a little nervous as a whole."

It's also a different look, trying to deal with wearing a mask while playing. It's a requirement this season for the players, referees and anybody in attendance, which on Saturday included 40 family members from host New Trier.

"It's definitely different (wearing a mask) and you get more winded than usual," Prieto said. "Playing defense is a huge challenge in itself. I think it shows who really wants to compete, being an athlete and who can go 90 feet. I do remember one of the New Trier players took one of our masks off and we had to take a mandatory mask break. It's so different and we just have to learn how to adapt to this. Just learn what we can do to take it to our advantage for the next play."

Maine West came out a bit sluggish. The Warriors turned the ball over numerous times in the first half and found themselves down 15-2 after the opening quarter and trailed 35-10 at the break.

"It's so nice to finally get back to reality, basketball X and) wise, athlete-wise " Maine West coach Tom Prokopij said. "We had a reality check, but beyond basketball, we're back to some sense of normalcy and it's great to get back to reality. It was great to be back, New Trier was top notch hosting us and the kids just want to play.

"We just have to share the basketball better. We have to work better possessions."

New Trier was led by Jake Fiegen with 11 points off the bench. Trevians coach Scott Fricke moved players in and out of the game five at a time every few minutes.

"It was a win for before anybody stepped on this court," Fricke said. "Especially, for the seniors. These guys have been on a roller coaster for the last six to seven months. They thought the season wasn't going to happen to all of a sudden, we started practicing and then start playing."