When the Pelham High powers that be drew up the scenario for Saturday night’s boys and girls NHIAA state quarterfinal doubleheader, they probably had hoped for a special night.
The Pelham High kids simply blew the expectations away in a hoop evening that won’t soon be forgotten.
A pair of packed houses at the “Snake Pit,” delivered an amazing atmosphere as the Pythons took a pair of thrillers, each by one point.
“It was a huge rush of adrenaline. We all had so much fun,” said senior Grace Riley after the girls tripped up Hollis Brookline, 44-43. “Our team loves playing together and playing in our home gym. Then getting the chance to watch the boys, it was just a great night.”
The boys were not to be outdone, holding off a furious charge from Bow to win, 47-46, behind 20 points from senior Brady Hegan.
“It was an incredible night. A very, very packed out gym,” said Hegan. “I’ve been going to the games there since I was a kid, never seen it that packed … just an incredible night.”
Hegan was the man, especially early as Pelham built a double-digit lead.
“When the energy is up I play better,” said Hegan. “The kids (in the student section) were there for both games. It was awesome.”
Still, there were some anxious moments. But when Bow’s final attempt to win failed, the place, as expected, went bonkers.
“We had control most of the game, and we let go of the rope a little bit,” said Hegan, who was backed up by Luke Estell and Gavin Hastie with eight points apiece. “It got ugly towards the end, but we managed to hold on.”
The girls now get a shot at unbeaten, top seed Pembroke in the state semis.
“People might think we’re scared, but we are hungry for a win,” said Riley. “We’re very excited for that one.”
The boys turn around and face Manchester West on Monday night.