In a fight for a playoff spot in the crowded Class D North standing, the Penobscot Valley boys basketball team got a much needed victory against Woodland on Thursday 67-61.
The Dragons from Baileyville started off the game well, getting key offensive rebounds and knocking down shots. They were led by junior standout Evan Monk, who dropped 17 points in the first half. Down 19-11 after eight minutes, the Howlers battled back to tie the game at 34 going into the break led by some hot shooting by senior guard Darius Miranda who connected on four 3’s. The second half was a back and forth battle in which both of the teams leading scorers stepped up to dominate. Monk poured in another 16 points including 3 shots from beyond the arc. Not to be outdone, Noah Austin of PVHS found his rhythm scoring 18 points after the break and helping his team create some breathing room. The Howlers were able to knock down enough free throws in the closing minutes to secure the victory.
Austin finished with team-highs of 23 points and 10 rebounds in the contest, while Miranda ended up with 15 points. Max Hamel came off the bench to score 10 points for the winners, and Ryan Dawson had impressive stat lines of nine points and five assists. The scoring was rounded out by Drouin Brochu and Chase Osgood with five each. Osgood also secured a season-high seven rebounds. Penobscot Valley improved to 7-6 and will travel to Penquis on Saturday. Monk was electric, scoring in countless ways en route to a game-high 33 points for the Dragons. Brayden Dana and Jase Rousell each netted nine points, Graison Williams finished with six, while Gavin Berry added four. Woodland dropped to 8-5 on the season and will host Schenck Saturday.
Photo from a PVHS game earlier this season courtesy of Stacey Feldmus Photography
