Cross-town rivals bring out Kenosha’s basketball lovers in a matchup that’s been on the calendar since September. On Friday, Dec. 19, the Tremper Trojans and the Indian Trail Hawks boys’ basketball teams put on a show at the Indian Trail Fieldhouse.
Friday was the first matchup between the two Kenosha teams, and no one knew what to expect. Tremper won both matchups in the previous year, crushing the Hawks 75-50 at home and 74-60 at Indian Trail. However, this game’s outcome couldn’t have been predicted by last year’s results. Tremper graduated four seniors, and Indian Trail graduated three; this was anyone’s game.
Cam Bentz (12), who previously played for Indian Trail from 9th to 11th grade, was at the game, and he rolled with his home school, Indian Trail.
“We’re undefeated coming off a big win versus our other rival, Bradford. I definitely think we’re going to win,” Bentz said.
Beyond just the game on the hardwood, there was an opportunity for the fans as well. Indian Trail students participated in an ESPN theme in the student section to show support for their Hawks.
Tyree Franklin (12) has been supporting the Hawks’ basketball team every year since he started at Indian Trail.
“I love participating in all of the themes for the games; it’s super fun,” Franklin said. “It’s super engaging and makes the game more entertaining for sure.”
The teams traded baskets back and forth in the first half. Keith Knight (11) led the purple and black in scoring in the first half with six points. However, Tremper had a more cohesive gameplan, leading 25-24 at halftime.
The student section was able to have a little bit of fun themselves. Some of the Hawks put on their best Joe Buck and Stephen A. Smith impersonations, giving their takes on the first half of the game.
“I was able to dress up, sit in the front with my little microphone and act like I was an ESPN employee; it was a great time,” Franklin said.
The second half began, and the Trojans started to pull away. Guard Josiah Delacy (12) was facilitating the offense, making passes and coordinating every play. The Hawks tried to rebut with a 15-point second half from Silas Bolton (12), but it was not enough. The Trojans won 60-46 and left Indian Trail Fieldhouse with their first victory of the season, becoming 1-3 on the year.
“I had a fun time, and it’s unfortunate we couldn’t win this one. Bentz said. Luckily, we play them again on their homecourt, and you better believe the student section will be ready.”
