The Pomperaug boys basketball team is still searching for its first win of the season after a 65-31 loss to Bethel on Monday night, dropping the Panthers to 0–3.
Senior captain Noah Pane led Pomperaug with 10 points, while Jake Null added nine points, five rebounds, and four steals. Freshman Derrick Creaco finished with six assists as he entered the starting lineup.
Bethel (5-1) was paced by Elliot Hellman’s 14 points and Brady Kasack’s 12, all from beyond the arc. The Wildcats connected on nine three-pointers as a team in the win.
Bethel head coach Matt Lisi attributed his team’s hot start to the year to experience and size.
“We have four-year players and are coming off a state final-four run last year,” said Lisi. “Our system is not new to anyone. We’ve been running some of the same stuff for a few years now. We’re older and we’re big.”
Despite the result, Pomperaug head coach Shawn Mobilio pointed to effort and development as positives, noting the team’s defensive energy and Creaco’s ability to distribute the ball.
“It’s going to take time, but we’re young and we’re fighting,” Mobilio said, noting the youth on his roster.
“Six assists is impressive for a freshman,” added Mobilio. “When you have someone like that, you just have to let them play.”
The Panthers will look to regroup quickly as they return to action Thursday night, hosting New Fairfield High School at 7 p.m.
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