Mike Vukovcan The Hopewell Freshman basketball team put together an impressive all-around performance, rolling past Riverside with a commanding 58–21 victory.
Riverside came out aggressive, opening the game with a quick 5–0 run, but that early surge would be the visitors’ only lead of the night.
Hopewell quickly settled in when Kaleb Gonzalez knocked down a three-pointer to get the Vikings on the board. Ryder Kostrick followed with the next five points, giving Hopewell its first lead—a lead that Hopewell would not let go of.
Xavier Vallecorsa added to the momentum with a three-pointer to push the score to 11–5. Vallecorsa was locked in from beyond the arc all night, finishing as the game’s leading scorer with 15 points, all coming from three-point range.
Hopewell showcased balanced team offense and strong defensive effort, closing the first quarter with a 14–9 advantage.
In the second quarter, the Vikings began to pull away. Gonzalez and Kostrick continued to score, while Nico Yanessa added to the offensive pressure. Nico Amadio and Vin Smetana helped move the ball efficiently, tallying several assists. Christian Fischer and Enzo Leopardi anchored the defense underneath the net. By halftime, Hopewell had built a 25–13 lead.
Hopewell came out hot again in the third quarter, with Fischer scoring inside and Vallecorsa drilling more shots from deep. Smetana closed out the quarter with a basket, sending Hopewell into the final period firmly in control at 42–19.
In the fourth quarter, Roman Crisci stepped up to lead the offense and finish off a dominant team performance. Hopewell closed the game strong, securing the decisive 58–21 win.
It was a complete effort from the Vikings, highlighted by unselfish offense, tough defense, and contributions from up and down the roster.
Xavier Vallecorsa-15 points
Ryder Kostrick-14 points
Kaleb Gonzalez-9 points
Roman Crisci-7 points
Christian Fischer-7 points
Vin Smetana-2Â points
