Saugus’ boys basketball team faced a six-point halftime deficit against Peabody Thursday. From there, the Sachems “stepped up as a team,” according to coach Joe Bertrand, and won 64-55.
Leading a versatile Saugus offense were Jordan Rodriguez (18 points), Huey Josama (17), Ryan Dupuy (14), Oliver Hernandez (7), and Kam Conroy (6). The Tanners were paced by Jeremiah Agbonavbare (18 points) and Thad Broughton Jr. (17).
Saugus improved to 9-8, while Peabody dipped to 6-14.
BOYS BASKETBALL
Lynn Classical 71
South High (Worcester) 62
One night after scoring the game-winning basket against Chelsea, Shy Babb recorded 30 points, 15 rebounds, and six blocks to lead the Rams (16-2). Darren Baker netted 16 points.
Lynnfield 75
Amesbury 69
Grant Neal’s 26 points led the Pioneers (14-4), who escaped by single digits. Helping Lynnfield’s cause were Brandon Doherty (17 points), Justin Flores (14), and James Pasquale (11).
Swampscott 76
Danvers 60
The Big Blue (14-4) clipped the Falcons behind Connor Chiarello (25 points, 6 assists, 5 rebounds) and Teddy O’Neill (22 points, 5 assists). Cole Manning (9 points) provided a spark off the bench, while Dean Collins buried two 3-pointers to halt a Danvers rally.
Marblehead 92
Gloucester 53
Despite trailing 13-2, Marblehead battled back to lead 43-31 at halftime. Finn Baron (33 points) put on a show with 25 first-half points and 16 during the second quarter. Cam Weaver (22 points) and Finn Gallup (10) also contributed.
GIRLS BASKETBALL
Marblehead 49
Gloucester 37
Marblehead used a 28-17 halftime lead to reel in the Fishermen. The Magicians qualified for the state tournament for the eighth consecutive season.
“It was a great night for the seniors — Tess Andriano, Greta Sachs, Nora Mahan, and Hailey Schmitt — who all played well,” said Marblehead coach Paul Moran. “I am proud of our leadership.”
Danvers 37
Swampscott 31
Swampscott (12-6) trailed by two points heading into the fourth quarter, but couldn’t close. Anna Kanders led the Big Blue with 14 points and eight rebounds.
Peabody 61
Saugus 31
Peabody recovered from a loss against Danvers and spoiled Saugus’ Senior Night. The Tanners were led offensively by Avery Bettencourt (11 points, 7 assists, 9 rebounds), Olivia Gaynor (17 points, 5 threes), Sophia Coburn (12 points, 8 rebounds), and Sophia Galbiati (8 points), while Aliana and Ayla Ryan “did an outstanding job” defensively, according to coach Stan McKeen.
