AJ Abington Heights

December 30, 2009

Comets win at Classic

Senior Ross Danzig named tournament MVP as Abington Heights defeat Coughlin in title game 63-37

Abington Heights High School boys basketball team advanced to 8-0 on the year when they successfully defended their Christmas Classic crown on Monday, Dec. 28 against the Crusaders of Coughlin 63-37.

The 10th annual tournament was held at Abington Heights High School on Dec. 26 and 28. Head coach Ken Bianchi was happy to retain the championship.

“It’s always good to defend a title, especially at home,” said Bianchi.

Besides winning their two games, four Comets earned individual honors.

Ryan Vassil and Luke Peterson were named to the all-tournament team. Michael Burke was awarded the John Wynn Sr. Memorial Sportsmanship Award.

The tournament Most Valuable Player award was given to senior Ross Danzig, who posted 25 against Coughlin and 11 points in the first-round routing of Nanticoke 74-29 on Saturday, Dec. 26.

Danzig knocked down seven three-pointers against the Crusaders who never led.

“We knew they were aggressive, so if we worked the ball around enough we could get shots,” said Danzig.

Abington Heights sprang out to a 14-6 first half lead and were up 34-18 at the halfway point.

Bianchi said their strategy was one of patience against the fast-paced Crusaders. By controlling the ball and moving the zone, the Comets were able to force Coughlin into long periods that required tight defense.

“We needed to protect the basketball and look for the first good shot, not the first open shot,” Bianchi said.

Bianchi believes his team stuck to the game plan well, but strayed during points in the first half.

“At times we were good,” Bianchi said. “At times we got a little rambunctious.”

The Comets settled into a rhythm, expanding the lead to 21 by the end of the third quarter.

“They all started playing better in the second half and we were able to open it up a little,” Bianchi said.

Vassil added 13 points and Nate Basalyga grabbed six rebounds in the effort.

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