2011-2012 Varsity

Varsity Scores/Recaps:

11-22-11 vs. Urban Prep                L 75-72 (0-1)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 26
Leading Rebounder: Damonta Henry 9
Leading Assists: Luke Nortier 5

11-23-11 vs. Neuqua Valley    W 54-50 (1-1)
Leading Scorer: Luke Nortier 21
Leading Rebounder: Luke Nortier 8
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry and Louis Marino 4

11-25-11 vs. Rich Central               W 89-47 (2-1)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 16
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 8
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry 7

11-26-11 vs. Brother Rice              W 65-57 (3-1)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 20
Leading Rebounder: Damonta Henry an Miki Ljuboja 7
Leading Assists: Andrew Hanley 4

12-03-11 vs. Elmwood Park           W 71-43 (4-1, 1-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 16
Leading Rebounder: Damonta Henry 8
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry 6

12-04-11 vs. Lyons Township         W 78-60 (5-1, 1-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 18
Leading Rebounder: Luke Nortier 6
Leading Assists: Luke Nortier 10

12-07-11 vs. Providence                 L 64-59 (5-2, 1-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 18
Leading Rebounder: Louis Marino 7
Leading Assists: Luke Nortier 4

12-11-11 vs. Farragut                      L 67-55 (5-3, 1-0)
Leading Scorer: Luke Nortier and Damonta Henry 15
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 15
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry and Eric Loury 4

12-16-11 vs. Timothy Christian       W 65-59 (6-3, 2-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 25
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 6
Leading Assists: Liam Lesniak 8

12-27-11 vs. York                           W 44-43 (7-3, 2-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 14
Leading Rebounder: Henry and Ljuboja 8
Leading Assists: Henry and Nortier 3

12-28-11 vs. St. Ignatius                    L 62-52 (7-4, 2-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 18
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 12
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry 5

12-29-11 vs. Maine South                   W 53-50 2ot (8-4, 2-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 23
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 7
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry 4

12-30-11 vs. St. Francis                       W 61-54 (9-4, 2-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 23
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 20
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry 5

01-06-12 vs. Glenbard South                W 66-63 (10-4, 3-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 21
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 12
Leading Assists: Lesniak, Henry, Nortier 4

01-13-12 vs. Fenton                                W 73-54 (11-4, 4-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljubjoja 22
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 8
Leading Assists: Luke Nortier 7

01-15-12 vs. Cody (Detroit, MI)                W 81-68 (12-4, 4-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 16
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 12
Leading Assists: Luke Nortier 7

01-17-12 vs. St. Laurence                           W 74-45 (13-4, 4-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 21
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 9
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry and Luke Nortier 5

01-27-12 vs. Ridgewood                              W 71-63 (14-4, 5-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja and Damonta Henry 23
Leading Rebounder: Luke Nortier 11
Leading Assists: Luke Nortier 6

01-28-12 vs. Illiana Christian                          W 66-60 (15-4, 6-0)
Leading Scorer: Luke Nortier 16
Leading Rebounder: Luke Nortier 11
Leading Assists: Eric Loury 4

01-29-12 vs. Corliss                                          W 52-43 (16-4, 6-0)
Leading Scorer: Luke Nortier and Damonta Henry 13
Leading Rebounder: Luke Nortier 8
Leading Assists: Nortier and Henry 3

01-31-12 vs. Elmwood Park                                W 55-36 (17-4, 7-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 14
Leading Rebounder: Luke Nortier 12
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry 7

02-07-12 vs. Timothy Christian                            W 65-41 (18-4, 8-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 21
Leading Rebounder: Luke Nortier 15
Leading Assists: Henry, Lesniak, Nortier 4

02-10-12 vs. Glenbard South                                 W 73-63 (19-4, 9-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 28
Leading Rebounder: Luke Nortier 10
Leading Assists: Luke Nortier 6

02-14-12 vs. Fenton                                                W 77-65 (20-4, 10-0)
Leading Scorer: Andrew Hanley 19
Leading Rebounder: Luke Nortier 11
Leading Assists: Luke Nortier 6

02-17-12 vs. Illiana Christian                                   W 81-50 (21-4, 11-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 22
Leading Rebounder: Damonta Henry 8
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry 5

02-24-12 vs. Ridgewood                                              W 60-56 (22-4, 12-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 20
Leading Rebounder: Henry and Ljuboja 8
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry 6

02-28-12 vs. Fenwick                                                   W 72-57 (23-4, 12-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 21
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 11
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry 6

03-02-12 vs. Crane                                                       W 69-57 (23-5, 12-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 18
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 11
Leading Assists: Lesniak and Nortier 3

Recaps:
Varsity Bulldogs Fall to Crane in Regional Championship Game! Three Bulldogs Named All-Conference!
The Varsity Bulldogs tremendous season ended at the hands of Crane in the regional championship game. Crane led pretty much from start to finish and withstood many Bulldog runs. The Dogs were never able to get over the hump. Crane led 14-8 after a quarter and 32-25 at halftime. The Bulldogs cut the Crane lead to 45-41 after thee quarters and cut the deficit to 3 numerous times throughout the 4th quarter, but could never get over the top, eventually falling 69-57. It was a tremendous season that say the Bulldogs win the Bill VandeMerkt Thanksgiving Classic and win their 11th straight Conference Championship. The Bulldogs also went 3-1 and finished in 5th place at the prestigious Jack Tosh, York Christmas Classic. Finally, the Bulldogs had a very impressive 16 game winning streak the second half of the season. The loss also marks the end of very impressive careers for our 5 seniors: Luke Nortier, Andrew Hanley, Louis Marino, Jordan Dahms, and Chris Duplancich. They made tremendous strides and gave all they had to our program over the course of their careers. They are tremendous kids and will be very successful in the future! The entire basketball program will miss them and wish them the best of luck!

Three Bulldogs were also recently named to the Metro Suburban Conference All Conference team. Senior Luke Nortier and Juniors Damonta Henry and Miki Ljuboja were all voted to the team. Congratulations to all 3 Bulldogs!

Varsity Bulldogs Defeat Fenwick 72-57 to win 16th Straight Game in Regional Opener!
The Varsity Bulldogs started out slow and Fenwick hit some tough shots in the 1st quarter to lead the Dogs 16-10. However, the rest of the game was all Bulldogs. The Bulldogs led 34-28 at the half and 49-37 after three quarters, before building the lead to 18 points numerous times in the fourth quarter. The Bulldogs finished with the impressive 72-57 victory. The Bulldogs showed great balance by placing 4 players in double figures, led by Damonta Henry with 21 points and 6 assists. Eric Loury has 13 points and three 3 pointers, while Miki Ljuboja had 11 points and 10 rebounds. Luke Nortier chipped in 10 points and 6 rebounds. Louis Marino just missed double figures with 9 points on three huge three pointers. The win is the Bulldogs 16th straight victory and improves them to 23-4 overall. The Dogs look to get revenge on Crane from last year's sectional championship, on Friday, March 2nd at 7:30pm in the Regional Championship at RB. In addition to the win, David Aldape, Andrew Hanley, and Jordan Dahms all advanced to Friday's three point contest at 6:45.

Varsity Wins 11th Straight Conference Title Outright and 15th Consecutive Game!
The Varsity Bulldogs celebrated senior night with an intense, hard fought 60-56 victory over Ridgewood, to claim their 11th consecutive Metro Suburban Conference Championship and win their 15th consecutive game. The Dogs trailed 16-11 after one quarter and trailed 29-27 at halftime, before taking a 45-41 lead after three quarters and holding on for the victory down the stretch. Andy Maczurzak was phenomenal for Ridgewood scoring 35 points in a variety of ways. However, the Bulldogs had more balance and more weapons to help them to victory. Miki Ljuboja had 20 points and 8 rebounds. Andrew Hanley and Damonta Henry each chipped in 10 points. Henry had a solid overall game adding 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Luke Nortier had 8 points and 6 rebounds, while adding the biggest defensive play of the game with a key block on Maczurzak with 15 seconds left in the game. Henry and Nortier were 4-4 from the line in the final 30 seconds to secure the victory. The Bulldogs found a way to win this game despite being a very uncharacteristic 1-11 from the three point line. The Bulldogs improve to 22-4 overall and finished conference play undefeated for the second consecutive year at 12-0. The Dogs host the winner of the Fenwick-Little Village game on Tuesday, February 28th at 6:00pm. The Dogs are hoping for a huge crowd to cheer them on to victory. The Bulldog players and coaching staff would like to give a special shout out to the 6th Man student section for organizing a "white out" and being very supportive in helping the Bulldogs win this game! We hope to have a huge 6th Man on Tuesday!!!

Click Here to Read the Sun Times, yourseason.com article about the game

Varsity wins 14th Straight Game and Clinch at Least a Tie for 11th Straight Conference Title!
The Varsity Bulldogs got off to a quick start and never looked back against the visiting Vikings from Illiana Christian. The Bulldogs jumped out to a 20-10 first quarter lead and increased that lead to 45-20 at halftime. The Dogs increased the lead to as many as 40 points in the second half before cruising to the 81-50 victory. The Dogs played without big man Miki Ljuboja for the 2nd straight game. Damonta Henry led the Bulldogs with 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists. Luke Nortier added 15 points and 5 rebounds, while Liam Lesniak had 9 points and 5 rebounds and Andrew Hanley had 9 points. The win secures at least a tie for the Bulldogs 11th straight conference title. The win is also the Bulldogs 14th in a row and improves the Dogs to 21-4 overall and 11-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. The Bulldogs have a big showdown with Ridgewood on Friday, February 24th at 7:00 pm at RB to win the conference championship outright.

Varsity and Sophomores Win 20th Game!
The Varsity Bulldogs played without big man Miki Ljuboja and showed their offensive balance with 6 players scoring in double figures. Andrew Hanley led the way with 19 points and 7 rebounds, including 4 consecutive three pointers in the second half. Luke Nortier had 12 points and 11 rebounds, while Eric Loury also chipped in 12 points. Damonta Henry added 11 points, while Liam Lesniak and Louis Marino each had 10 points, and Lesniak contributed 6 rebounds. The Bulldogs led 17-15 after one quarter and 33-25 at halftime. The Dogs built the lead to 18 points numerous times in the second half and finished with the 77-65 victory. The win marks the Bulldogs 13th in a row and also gives the Dogs their 20th win, which is the 4th straight season with at least 20 wins. The Dogs are now 20-4 overall and 10-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. This game is also the last of a 7 game road trip for the Bulldogs. The Dogs are back at home on Friday, February 17th vs. Illiana Christian at 7:00pm. This Friday is also Junior High Night, featuring 6 local 8th grade teams, that will be playing in a game at RB after the varsity game.

Varsity Bulldogs win 12th Straight Game!
The Varsity Bulldogs battled a lot of adversity and defeat Glenbard South. The Bulldogs led 23-13 after one quarter and increased the lead to 38-23 at halftime. Damonta Henry was very good in the first half with 18 points. 2nd leading scorer, Miki Ljuboja only played 5 minutes the entire game as he battled a nagging injury. Luke Nortier and Liam Lesniak both battled foul trouble and starting guard, Eric Loury barely played in the second half because of an injury. The Bulldogs were forced to go deeper into their bench than usual and everyone responded. The Dogs increased their lead to 20 points late in the third quarter and led by 12-15 points most of the fourth quarter, before finishing with the 73-63 victory. The win marks the Bulldogs 12th straight as they improve to 19-4 overall and 9-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. Damonta Henry led the Bulldogs with 28 points and 6 rebounds, while Luke Nortier added 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists. Liam Lesniak chipped in 10 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists off the bench. Louis Marino had a solid game with 8 points and 7 rebounds. The Dogs travel to Fenton on Tuesday, February 14th at 7:00pm.

Varsity Wins 18th Game!
The Varsity Bulldogs improved to 18-4 on the season with a 65-51 victory over Timothy Christian. The Dogs led 16-9 after one quarter. Timothy then cut the Bulldog lead in the second quarter to 25-20, before the Dogs went on a 10-0 run to close out the half 35-20. Timothy wouldn't go away cutting the Bulldog lead to 3 or 4 numerous times. However, the Bulldogs withstood every Timothy run and cleared the bench at the end, before finishing with the victory. The Bulldogs dominated the boards the entire game finishing with 44 rebounds, including 17 offensive. Damonta Henry led the Bulldogs with 21 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists. Miki Ljuboja chipped in 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Luke Nortier had a solid all-around game with 10 points, 15 rebounds, and 4 assists. The win is the Bulldogs 11th straight. The Dogs are 18-4 overall and 8-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. Next up is a 7:00pm game on Friday, February 10th at Glenbard South High School.

Varsity Wins 10th Straight!
The Varsity Bulldogs struggle in the first half against a very pesky Elmwood Park team. Elmwood Park shot the ball well and battled with the Bulldogs. The Dogs led 16-8 after one quarter and 27-22 at halftime. Elmwood Park hung tough through most of the third quarter, until the Bulldogs pulled away late and took a 55-38 lead after three quarters. The Dogs then increased the lead in the 4th quarter to finish with a 72-44 victory, in a game that was much closer than the final score. Damonta Henry led the Bulldogs with 14 points and 7 assists. Miki Ljuboja had 12 points and 9 rebounds, while Louis Marino added 11 points, all in the first half. Liam Lesniak had 9 points and Luke Nortier contributed 12 rebounds in the win. The Bulldogs improve to 17-4 overall and 7-0 in the conference, and travel to Timothy Christian on Tuesday, February 7th at 7:00pm.

Varsity Completes 3 Game Weekend Sweep at Chops Billinger Memorial Shootout at North Park University!
The Varsity Bulldogs started out like a team that was playing for the third straight day, after playing two tough conference games already this weekend. The Dogs trailed 11-8 after one quarter and went into halftime tied 19-19. The Dogs shot just 1-10 from three point land in the first half and 9-28 overall. The offense got going in the 3rd quarter as the Dogs took numerous 5 point leads, but Corliss kept fighting back and tied the game at 35 after three quarters. Corliss then scored the first two points of the fourth quarter, leading 37-35 before the Bulldogs went on a 13-0 run, highlighted by 3 three pointers from Andrew Hanley. It was all Bulldogs after that as they finished with the 52-43 victory. The win is the Bulldogs 9th straight and improves their record to 16-4. The Dogs travel to Elmwood Park on Tuesday, January 31 at 7:00, to take on the Tigers in a Metro Suburban Conference mathchup.

Varsity Wins 8th Straight Game! Kincanon's 37 Points Lead Sophomores to Victory!
The Varsity Bulldogs jumped out to an early 23-9 first quarter lead and built that lead to 20 points in the 2nd quarter, before going into halftime with a 37-24 lead. The Dogs were outscored by Illiana Christian 17-8 in the third quarter and led 45-41 after 3 quarters, but held on for the 66-60 victory. The Bulldogs battled very uncharacteristic woes from the free throw line and things weren't going right for the Dogs in the second half on either end of the floor, but they held on for the win!   Luke Nortier led the Bulldogs with 16 points and 11 rebounds. The Dogs showed great balance with 4 guys in double figure scoring. Miki Ljuboja added15 points and 8 rebounds. Damonta Henry added 14 points and Eric Loury chipped in 10 points and 4 assists. The win is the Dogs 8th straight as they improve to 15-4 overall and 6-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. The Bulldogs next play on Sunday, January 29th in the Ronald "Chops" Billinger Memorial Shootout at North Park University, at 1:30 pm vs. Corliss.

Varsity Wins Battle With Ridgewood!
The Varsity Bulldogs led Ridgewood from start to finish, and won 71-63 in Norridge. The Dogs led 14-8 after one quarter and 29-21 at halftime. The Dogs increased their lead to 11 points midway through the 3rd quarter, but Ridgewood fought back and cut the Bulldog lead to 43-40 after three quarters. The Dogs then increased the lead to 13 points numerous times in the fourth quarter. Andrew Hanley hit a three pointer with just under 2 minutes to go to increase the Bulldog lead once again to 13 points. Ridgewood hit a couple of baskets late and battled until the end to solidify the final score of 71-63. Ridgewood's Andy Maczurczak led all scorers with 25 points. Juniors Damonta Henry and Miki Ljuboja led the Bulldogs with 23 points each. Ljuboja also added 9 rebounds before fouling out in only 23 minutes of play. Henry also added 5 rebounds and 5 assists, while senior Luke Nortier added 8 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists. The Bulldogs improve to 14-4 and more importantly took sole possession of first place (5-0) in the Metro Suburban Conference. The Dogs next travel to Lansing on Saturday, January 28th to take on Illiana Christian at 6:30pm.

Varsity Wins 6th straight game vs. St. Laurence!
The Varsity Bulldogs battled in the first quarter with St. Laurence, falling behind 11-6, before closing out the quarter with a 15-14 lead. The second quarter was all Bulldogs, as the Dogs outscored the Vikings 29-8 to take a 44-22 lead at halftime, before clearing the bench in the second half and cruising to a 74-45 victory. The Bulldogs showed great balance for the second straight game with 4 guys in double figures. Miki Ljuboja led the Bulldogs with 21 points and 9 rebounds. Damonta Henry had a solid overall game with 18 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 steals. Eric Loury came off the bench and added 13 points, including 3 three pointers. Luke Nortier was steady again with 11 points and 5 assists. The win marks the Bulldogs 6th straight as they improve to 13-4 on the season. The Dogs are preparing to travel to Illiana Christian for a 7:30pm game on Friday, January 20th.

Varsity Beats Cody High School from Detroit in the Martin Luther King Dream Classic at Whitney Young!
The Varsity Bulldogs jumped out to a quick 18-3 lead and never looked back defeating Cody High School from Detroit 81-68. The Dogs built a 39-20 halftime lead and opened up a 58-37 lead after 3 quarters. The Dogs extended the lead to 26 points midway through the fourth quarter before clearing the bench and coming home with the victory. The Bulldogs showed great balance with 5 players in double figures. Junior guard, Damonta Henry had a solid all-around game with 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists. 6'7 Junior Miki Ljuboja added 14 points and 12 rebounds. Luke Nortier was also solid with 14 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds. Seniors Louis Marino and Andrew Hanley contributed 14 and 12 points respectively. Hanley also added 7 rebounds. The Bulldogs improve to 12-4 overall and have a non-conference matchup with Coach Herbeck's alma mater, St Laurence on Tuesday, January 17th at 7:00pm at RB.

Varsity Defeats Fenton 73-54!
The Varsity Bulldogs jumped out to a 23-11 first quarter lead and a 38-26 halftime lead, before cruising to a 73-54 victory vs. the Bison of Fenton. Miki Ljuboja led the Bulldogs with 22 points and 8 rebounds, while Damonta Henry added 15 points and 5 assists. Andrew Hanley contributed 9 points and 8 rebounds. Eric Loury added 8 points in his first start this season. The Bulldogs showed their unselfishness by dishing out 23 assists on 27 made baskets. The Dogs improve to 4-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference and 11-4 on the season. The Bulldogs next play on Sunday, January 15th at 1:30pm vs. Cody High School from Detroit Michigan at the Martin Luther King Dream Classic at Whitney Young High School.

Varsity Wins Hard Fought Battle with Glenbard South!
The Varsity Bulldogs stood up to a very strong test from Glenbard South. The Dogs fell behind 14-4 in the first quarter and went on a 10-0 run to close out the quarter and tied the game at 14. The Dogs then played a better second quarter and took a 34-29 lead into halftime behind 14 points and 10 rebounds from 6'7 junior Miki Ljuboja. The Dogs built numerous 9 point leads in the second half, but couldn't put Glenbard South away. The Raiders hit a three pointer at the buzzer for the final margain of 66-63. Ljuboja finished with another solid performance of 21 points, 12 rebounds, and 5 blocks. Damonta Henry contributed 17 points and 4 assists, while Luke Nortier added 12 points, 5 rebound, and 4 assists. Eric Loury and Liam Lesniak continued to give the Bulldogs a strong lift off the bench. The Dogs are now 10-4 overall and 3-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. The Bulldogs next game is Friday, January 13th as they host Fenton at 7:00pm.

Varsity Wins and Finishes 5th at the Prestigious Jack Tosh York Holiday Tournament!
The Varsity Bulldogs battled a familiar foe in the 5th place game of the prestigious Jack Tosh tournament, Wheaton St. Francis and came away victorious. The Dogs defeated the Spartans in their previous two regional championship games in 2010 and 2011. The Dogs trailed 14-12 after one quarter, however outscored the Spartans 20-7 in the second quarter and led 32-21 at halftime. The Dogs led 46-39 after three quarters, but St. Francis would not go away and tied the game early in the 4th. The Dogs then increased the lead back to 7 points with a little over a minute to go and held on for the 61-54 victory. The Bulldogs were paced by the very strong play of 6'7 Junior Miki Ljuboja who finished with 23 points and 20 rebounds. Senior Luke Nortier finished with 18 points and played tremendous defense on St. Francis's best player, Ryan Coyle, limiting him to 8 points. Damonta Henry finished with 11 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists.

Overall the tournament was once again very successful for the Bulldogs as they finished 3-1, losing only to eventual tournament champion, St. Ignatius. Junior Damonta Henry played solid the entire week and was named all-tournament. A solid case could have also been made for Miki Ljuboja, especially after his dominating performance today or Luke Nortier who was steady offensively and played tremendous defense all week. The Bulldogs are now 9-4 and host Glenbard South in a very important conference matchup up Friday, January 6th at 7:00pm.

Varsity Wins Double Overtime Battle With Maine South
The Varsity Bulldogs had a hard time scoring in the first half and trailed Maine South 18-14 at halftime. Maine South plays a style that really slows the game down and takes your offense out of a rhythm. The Dogs fell behind 9 points early in the 3rd quarter before really turning up the pressure defensively in the 4th quarter and forcing Maine South into many turnovers. The Dogs led most of the fourth quarter but couldn't close the game out, as Maine South hit a three pointer to tie the game at 41 with about 10 seconds to go to send the game into the first overtime. The Dogs led 46-43 late in the first overtime and Maine South made another three pointer to send the game into the second overtime. The Dogs then held a 1 point lead with 20 second left and Maine South ball on side out of bounds. Damonta Henry stole the inbounds pass and took it in for a layup. The Dogs then held on defensively for the 53-50 hard fought victory. Damonta Henry finished with a game high 23 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 steals. Eric Loury came off the bench and played solid defense and finished with a career high 9 points, including a huge three pointer in overtime. Miki Ljuboja had 7 points and 7 rebounds, while Liam Lesniak had 6 points and 6 rebounds off the bench. Luke Nortier had 6 points on two huge three pointers during the Bulldogs third quarter run. He also played great defense on Maine South's leading scorer and had 8 blocked shots. The Dogs improve to 8-4 on the season and take on Wheaton St. Francis for 5th place of the Jack Tosh Holiday Classic at 4:00pm on Friday, December 30th at York High School.

Varsity Dogs Drop Tough Game to St. Ignatius
The Varsity Bulldogs struggled early in the game vs. St.Ignatius and trailed 24-14 after one quarter and 35-23 at halftime. St. Ignatius had a big first half behind Brian Howard's 18 points. The Dogs played a much better second half and cut the St. Ignatius lead to 46-40 after 3 quarters. The Dogs cut the lead to 3 points numerous times in the 4th quarter, but could not get over the hump. It was a 4 point game with 28 seconds left and numerous free throws in the final half minute sealed the 62-52 final for the St. Ignatius win. Damonta Henry had a solid overall game, finishing with 18 points (16 in the second half), 5 assists, and 4 steals. Luke Nortier contributed 15 points, and 6'7 junior, Miki Ljuboja added 14 points and 12 rebounds. The Dogs fall to 7-4 with the loss and take on Maine South at 4:00pm on Thursday, December 29th.

Varsity Wins Opening Round of York Tournament vs. Host Dukes
The Varsity Bulldogs took on a talented York Dukes team in the first round of the Jack Tosh York Holiday tournament. York played a very slow, deliberate game on offense. The Dogs led 14-10 after one quarter and trailed 24-20 at halftime. The Dogs then led 38-34 after three quarters and held on for the 44-43 hard fought victory. The Dogs battled throughout and Luke Nortier did a nice job defensively on York's star guard David Cohn. Damonta Henry led the Bulldogs with 14 points and 8 rebounds, including 4-4 from the free throw line in the final 1:30 of the game. Luke Nortier added 12 points, while Miki Ljuboja added 10 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 blocked shots. The Dogs next take on a very tough St. Ignatius team at 7:15 on Wednesday, December 28th.

Varsity Wins Tough Battle With Timothy Christian
The Varsity Bulldogs held off a very pesky Timothy Christian team for a 65-59 victory. Timothy dictated the tempo for most of the game, but had a hard time containing juniors Damonta Henry and Miki Ljuboja. Henry finished with 25 points and 7 assists. Ljuboja had a solid game with 22 points and 6 rebounds. Luke Nortier also contributed 9 points for the Bulldogs. Liam Lesniak played a solid game and contributed 8 assists in the win. The Dogs improve to 6-3 overall and 2-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. The Dogs play next at the Jack Tosh York Xmas Tournament at 7:15 on Tuesday, December 27th vs. the Dukes of York.

Farragut Beats RB 67-55 at Derrick Rose Shootout
The Varsity Bulldogs gave Farragut a battle for most of the game, but they pulled away with about 2 minutes to go giving Farragut the 67-55 victory. The Dogs trailed 12-10 after a quarter and 24-20 at halftime. Farragut increased their lead to 47-39 after three quarters.   The Dogs cut the Farragut lead to 5 points numerous times in the fourth quarter but couldn't get over the hump. The Dogs had a ton of opportunities, but just couldn't take advantage. Miki Ljuboja played real well for the Bulldogs and finished with 14 points and 15 rebounds.   Luke Nortier and Damonta Henry each chipped in 15 points. The Dogs fall to 5-3 on the season and host Timothy Christian on Friday, December 16th at 7:00pm.

Varsity Falls to Providence
The Varsity Bulldogs jumped out to an early 20-14 lead and after that it was all Celtics, with the Dogs falling 64-49 in non-conference action in New Lenox. The Bulldogs trailed 32-27 at halftime, but the Celtics went on a 12-2 run to build the lead to 15 and the Bulldogs never got over the top. The Bulldogs were ice cold from the field, shooting an uncharacteristic 23-84 (27%).    The Bulldogs drop to 5-2 on the season and travel to Collins High School in Chicago for the Derrick Rose Shootout on Sunday, December 11th at 2:00pm vs. Farragut.

Varsity Routes LT for 2nd Straight Year!
The Varsity Bulldogs got off to a slow start, falling behind 15-6 early and 19-12 after a quarter. The Dogs erupted for 27 points in the second quarter and took a 39-33 lead into halftime. It was all Bulldogs in the second half leading by as many as 22 points, before finishing with the 78-60 victory. The win marks the Bulldogs 5th victory in a row this season and the Dogs have now beat LT 3 out of the last 4 seasons.    The Dogs had a great team effort, with great scoring balance. Damonta Henry led the Bulldogs with 18 points. Andrew Hanley and Louis Marino each chipped in 15 points, while Miki Ljuboja added 14. Luke Nortier had a great all around game with 8 points, 10 assists, and 6 assists. The Bulldogs shot the ball very well, making 12 three pointers. The Dogs are now 5-1 overall and have a non-conference matchup at Providence Catholic on Wednesday, December 7th at 7:00p.m.

Varsity Cruises vs. Elmwood Park 71-43
The Varsity Bulldogs jumped out to a 22-8 first quarter lead against Elmwood Park and increased the lead to 31-13 at halftime, before clearing the bench and finishing with a 71-43 victory. Elmwood Park made a run in the late third quarter, to cut the Bulldog lead to 14 points, however three pointers on back to back possessions by Louis Marino and Damonta Henry put the game out of reach. Damonta Henry led the Bulldogs with 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists. Luke Nortier chipped in 11 points and 6 rebounds. Chris Duplancich was solid off the bench with 11 points and 3 rebounds. The Bulldogs improve to 4-1 overall and 1-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. The Dogs take on neighborhood rival, Lyons Township at 6:00pm on Saturday, December 4th at RB.

Varsity Wins VandeMerkt Thanksgiving Classic vs. Brother Rice 65-57
Varsity Wins the Bill VandeMerkt Thanksgiving Classic. Sophomores Fall in Intense Battle with Oak Park.
The Varsity Bulldogs withstood an early Brother Rice shooting barrage and held on to defeat the Crusaders 65-57 for the championship of the Bill VandeMerkt Thanksgiving Classic.   Brother Rice hit their first four three point shots and jumped out to an early double figure lead vs. the Bulldogs. The Dogs gradually fought back and cut the Brother Rice lead to 19-13 at the end of the first quarter, behind 8 first quarter points from Miki Ljuboja. Ljuboja finished the game with 17 points and 7 rebound for the Bulldogs. The Dogs tied the game by halftime 29-29 and played a great second half, leading the Crusaders by as many as 12 points, before finishing with the 8 point victory. Junior Damonta Henry was held scoreless in the first half but had a tremendous second half, scoring 20 points. Louis Marino hit two big third quarter three pointers that gave the Bulldogs momentum. Andrew Hanley and Damonta Henry hit big free throws down the stretch to secure the Bulldog victory and the Bill VandeMerkt Thanksgiving Classic championship. The Dogs improve to 3-1 and take on Elmwood Park on Friday, December 2nd at 7:00pm in their Metro Suburban Conference Opener.

Varsity Rolls Rich Central 89-47
The Varsity Bulldogs came out on fire and opened up a 26-0 first quarter lead vs. Rich Central. The Dogs led 34-6 after one quarter and 41-18 at halftime. The Dogs then went on another tear in the 3rd quarter and early fourth quarter, leading 81-31 at one point, before settling for an easy 89-47 victory vs. the Olympians. Junior Miki Ljuboja led the Bulldogs with 16 point and 8 rebounds. Junior Damonta Henry added 15 points and 7 assists. Seniors Andrew Hanley and Jordan Dahms each chipped in career highs with 13 and 10 points respectively. The Dog demonstrated great balance with seniors Louis Marino and Luke Nortier, each chipping in 9 and 8 points. All in all, 12 Bulldogs scored and the Dogs made 13 three point field goals in the game, while playing tremendous defense.

The Dogs improve to 2-1 overall and take on Brother Rice at 6:00pm on Saturday, November 26th for the Bill VandeMerkt Classic, tournament championship.

Varsity Defeats Neuqua Valley 54-50:
The Varsity Bulldogs rebounded from their loss to Urban Prep with a hard fought 54-50 victory vs. Neuqua Valley. The game was close throughout. Neuqua Valley led 22-21 at halftime. Neuqua then jumped out to a 37-29 lead in the early 4th quarter, but the Dogs responded with a 25-13 run to close out the game for the victory. Luke Nortier and Damonta Henry hit some big free throws down the stretch for the Bulldogs. Miki Lijuboja started out strong for the Bulldogs with 9 first quarter points. Luke Nortier led the Bulldogs with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Damonta Henry added 17 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. The Bulldog coaching staff and players would like to give a shout out to the 6th Man student section for their support throughout the game tonight and helping the Dogs to victory. The Dogs improve to 1-1 and take on Rich Central on Friday, November 25th at 6:30 pm.

Varsity Drops Opener to Urban Prep 75-72:
The Varsity Bulldogs lost a tough home opener in the Bill VandeMerkt Thanksgiving Classic to Urban Prep 75-72. The Dogs fell behind quickly to Urban Prep 8-0. Then, the Dogs went on a 24-3 run to open up a 24-11 lead. The Dogs led at halftime 39-31. The Dogs started out strong in the second half, behind 9 third quarter points from Miki Ljuboja and increased their lead to 52-37 midway through the quarter. Ljuboja picked up his 4th foul and the lead dwindled from there. The Bulldogs inexperience showed with 27 turnovers for the game. Damonta Henry led the Bulldogs with 26 points and 9 rebounds. Luke Nortier added 16 points and 5 assists. Miki Ljuboja had 11 points and 6 rebounds in limited minutes due to foul trouble. The Dogs will look to rebound from this loss vs. Neuqua Valley on Wednesday, November 23rd at 8:00pm.