I was recently able to pull away from my role as “sport parent transport service” to attend the boys basketball senior game. This year saw the Farmers take on the Jaguars of D’Evelyn High School in a very physical clash of skill and athleticism on Tom Dowd Court. Seniors were introduced to enthusiastic applause from family and friends. Posters filled the stands, and flowers were presented to parents. Seniors Jyles Ballenger #2, Gio Gonzales #4, Jayden Hughes #15, Nate Trione Jr. #23, and Marcus Lazayadio #24 were honored for their time as Farmer ballers before the game began.
The first quarter was largely a defensive battle, with numerous perimeter and three-point attempts challenged by strong containment and presence from both teams. Leif Wilson #3 showed excellent hustle around the ball, Torin Anderson #1 grabbed a clutch rebound, and Lazayadio #24 made hard-fought drives to the basket. In the second quarter, both teams found their rhythm with sharper passing and increased scoring, including more successful perimeter shots. The half ended after some hard fouls and turnovers on both sides, with D’Evelyn leading 32–23.
The Farmers returned for the second half to a crowd ready to rock and gave fans quite a show. Impressive defensive hustle forced turnovers and created timely scoring opportunities, with Ballenger stepping up to take control for a stretch. An impressive strip and turnover led to key free throws by Trione Jr., while Lazayadio added excellent mid-range and perimeter shooting. The Farmers battled back to tie the game 47–47 with 5:24 left in the fourth quarter on a clutch three-pointer by Anderson. Passing efficiency increased, and aggressive drives paid off with late layups from Trione Jr. and a beautiful finger-roll finish by Anderson in the final minute.
In the end, the Jaguars responded and secured the wiBy ten points, capitalizing on repeated trips to the free-throw line in the closing minutes. Still, the Farmers showed great promise, with younger players making an impact and demonstrating poise and courage at the varsity level. Overall, it was a performance the team can be proud of.
Well done, Farmers!
Additional Accolades
Congratulations to senior Isiah Osei and junior Lian Van, both of whom qualified for the Colorado State High School Wrestling Tournament this season—an incredible accomplishment!
Look for more winter sports accolades next month, along with updates on spring sports, which are now open for registration.
Go Farmers!
