2012-13 Varsity

2012-2013 Varsity Game Recaps:

Varsity Scores/Recaps:
11-20-12 vs. Urban Prep                W 79-46 (1-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 30
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 17
Leading Assists: Eric Loury 5

11-21-12 vs. Neuqua Valley        L 72-55 (1-1)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 20
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 6
Leading Assists: Will Kincanon 4

11-23-12 vs. Rich Central         W 68-61 (2-1)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 20
Leading Rebounder: Miki LJuboja 9
Leading Assists: Will Kincanon 6

11-24-12 vs. Brother Rice        L 71-68 (2-2)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja
Leading Assists: Kincanon and Lesniak 5

11-30-12 vs. Fenton   W 73-39 (3-2, 1-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 24
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 8
Leading Assists: Eric Loury 4

12-1-12 vs. Lyons Township L 62-56 (3-3, 1-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 21
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 13
Leading Assists: Liam Lesniak 4

12-4-12 vs. Providence Catholic W 62-51 (4-3, 1-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 18
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 7
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry 5

12-8-12 vs. Von Steuben W 47-43 (5-3, 1-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 19
Leading Rebounder: Liam Lesniak 6
Leading Assists: Eric Loury 4

12-11-12 vs. Timothy Christian W 68-64 (6-3, 2-0)
Leading Scorer: Eric Loury 30
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 8
Leading Assists: Eric Loury 6

12-14-12 vs. Illiana Christian W 74-54 (7-3, 3-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 19
Leading Rebounder: Eric Loury 11
Leading Assists: Liam Lesniak 6

12-18-12 vs. Glenbard South W 78-69 (8-3, 4-0)
Leading Scorer: Liam Lesniak 18
Leading Rebounder: Lesniak and VandeMerkt 6
Leading Assists: Loury 5

12-26-12 vs. Naperville North W 79-70 (9-3, 4-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 23
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 16
Leading Assists: Liam Lesniak 7

12-27-12 vs. Palatine W 58-51 (10-3, 4-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 22
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 11
Leading Assists: Henry, Loury, VandeMerkt 3

12-28-12 vs. Kenwood W 65-61 (11-3, 4-0)
Leading Scorer: Loury and Henry 19
Leading Rebounder: Ljuboja 7
Leading Assists: Henry 3

12-29-12 vs. Conant L 44-38 OT (11-4, 4-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 16
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 9
Leading Assists: Henry, Loury, Kincanon 2

12-29-12 vs. Waubonsie Valley W 78-67 (12-4, 4-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja
Leading Rebounder:Liam Lesniak 7
Leading Assists: Loury and Henry 7

01-11-13 vs. Ridgewood W 61-60 (13-4, 5-0)
Leading Scorer: Will Kincanon 21
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 8
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry 6

01-18-13 vs. Elmwood Park W 73-53 (14-4, 6-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 24
Leading Rebounder: Will Kincanon 10
Leading Assists: Kincanon and Henry 6

01-20-13 vs. Bogan L 82-62 (14-5, 6-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 24
Leading Rebounder: Damonta Henry 7
Leading Assists: Liam Lesniak 6

01-25-13 vs. Fenton W 78-48 (15-5, 7-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 17
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 9
Leading Assists: 4 players with 3

01-26-13 vs. Marshall W 62-54 (16-5, 7-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 22
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 9
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry 6

02-01-13 vs. Timothy Christian W 72-63 (17-5, 8-0)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 26
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 14
Leading Assists: Liam Lesniak 6

02-05-13 vs. Illiana Christian W 64-62 (18-5, 9-0)
Leading Scorer: Liam Lesniak 21
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 17
Leading Assists: Will Kincanon 5

02-08-13 vs. Glenbard South W 76-62 (19-5, 10-0)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 28
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 11
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry 7

02-15-13 vs. Ridgewood L 71-65 ot (19-6, 10-1)
Leading Scorer: Miki Ljuboja 25
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljuboja 14
Leading Assists: Liam Lesniak 4

02-19-13 vs. St. Charles East W 63-60 (20-6, 10-1)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 23
Leading Rebounder: Damonta Henry 7
Leading Assists: Liam Lesniak 5

02-22-13 vs. Elmwood Park W 62-51 (21-6, 11-1)
Leading Scorer: Damonta Henry 19
Leading Rebounder: Miki Ljbujoa 8
Leading Assists: Liam Lesniak 4

02-28-13 vs. Conant L 67-61 (21-7, 11-1)
Leading Scorer: Eric Loury 15
Leading Rebounder: Eric Loury 8
Leading Assists: Damonta Henry 4

Game Recaps:
Varsity Bulldogs Lose In State Tournament To Conant
The Varsity Bulldogs battled with Conant in a game that went back and forth throughout, in the regional at Hoffman Estates High School. There many lead changes throughout the game. The game was tied 27-27 at the half. Conant went on a small run in the third quarter and took a 46-40 lead at the end of the third. However, the Bulldogs responded with a 8-0 run and took a 48-46 lead. A couple more lead changes took place throughout the 4th quarter, but Conant was able to close out the game with the 67-61 victory.   The Dogs were led by Eric Loury's 15 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 steals. Liam Lesniak added 13 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 steals. While, Damonta Henry finished with 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists. Will Kincanon added 9 points and 5 rebounds. The loss was a disappointing way to end the Bulldogs 5th consecutive 20 win season. The Dogs finished 21-7. It also marks the end of great careers of the 9 seniors. Hunter Claire, David Aldape, Jack Hansa, Tyler Campbell, Jack Gibson, Eric Loury, Liam Lesniak, Miki Ljuboja, and Damonta Henry all put in many hours of hard work to help our program be successful and the coaching staff is very appreciative of all their contributions! Also a big congratulations goes out to Miki Ljuboja, Damonta Henry, and Liam Lesniak for being named to the All-Conference team for the Metro Suburban Conference. Miki Ljuboja also received an extra special honor by being named Conference Player of the Year! Congratulations to everyone on another successful season.

Varsity Bulldogs Win On Senior Night!
The Varsity Bulldogs jumped out to a quick 19-3 lead in the first quarter, highlighted by a bunch of blocked shots, steals and dunks by Eric Loury and Jack VandeMerkt. However, Elmwood Park continued to fight and cut the Bulldog lead to 28-21 at halftime. Coach McCloskey was able to clear the bench and play all of the seniors extensive minutes on Senior Night. 11 different players scored for the Bulldogs, led by Damonta Henry's 19 points. Miki Ljuboja chipped in 11 points and 8 rebounds. The win also clinches the conference championship outright for the Bulldogs, which is the varsity's 12th in a row. The Bulldogs improve to 21-6 overall and finished 11-1 in the Metro Suburban Conference. Up next is the regional game against Conant at 7:30pm on Wednesday, February 27th at Hoffman Estates High School.

Bulldogs Defeat St. Charles East On Every Level! Damonta Henry Scores 1000th Career Point!
The Varsity Bulldogs and Saints of St. Charles East played a very competitive game that went back and forth throughout with many lead changes. The scores was tied after one quarter and the Bulldogs trailed 30-29 at halftime. The Dogs and Saints were tied at 46 after three quarters. Damonta Henry and Miki Ljuboja made some key plays down the stretch and numerous Bulldogs knocked down some free throws to secure the victory.   Damonta Henry led the Bulldogs with 23 points and 7 rebounds. He continued his
very successful career by scoring his 1000th point and now has 1013 for his career. Miki Ljuboja had 11 points, while Will Kincanon added 10 points. St. Charles East was ranked as high as number 5 in the Sun Times earlier this season, so this is the third opponent the Bulldogs beat who were ranked at some point this year (Waubonsie Valley and Marshall were the other two). The win also marks the 5th straight season that Coach McCloskey's Varsity Bulldogs have won at least 20 games. The Bulldogs are now 20-6 overall and host Elmwood Park on Friday, February 22nd at 7:00pm for our annual "Senior Night", celebrating the careers of all of our seniors.
Click Here to Read the Story from the Game from Chicagohoops.com

Ridgewood Outlasts Varsity Bulldogs!
The Varsity Bulldogs battled a very tough Ridgewood team, and came up short in overtime 71-65. The Bulldogs and Rebels have had some tough battles the last couple years, that have all gone the Bulldogs way, until now. Ridgewood's ability to get loose balls and a few key offensive rebounds, helped propel them to the win. The game was close throughout, as they were tied at 20 after 1 quarter. The Dogs were up 34-31 at the half, and the Rebels led 49-48 after three quarters. Miki Ljuboja led the way for the Dogs with 24 points and 15 rebounds. Damonta Henry added 14 points, while Jack VandeMerkt had 11 points and 7 rebounds. The Dogs must regroup and get ready for a tough St. Charles East team on Tuesday, February 19th at 7:00pm, at home. The Dogs drop to 19-6 on the season and 10-1 in the Metro Suburban Conference.

Bulldogs Clinch Conference Titles on Varsity, Sophomore, and Freshman A and B Levels with wins vs. Glenbard South!
The Varsity Bulldogs clinched at least a share of their 12th consecutive conference title with a 76-62 victory vs. Glenbard South. The Dogs have a two game lead over Ridgewood with 2 games left to play. The conference championship also marks the 14th consecutive conference title for Coach McCloskey, as he won 2 in a row at Montini before coming to RB in 2001. The Bulldogs jumped out to a 40-24 halftime lead and increased the lead to as many as 23 points in the third quarter. Glenbard South kept battling, cutting the Bulldogs lead to 10 in the fourth quarter before, the Dogs finished with the 14 point victory. Damonta Henry led the Bulldogs with 28 points and 7 assists. Jack VandeMerkt added 19 points, while Miki Ljuboja chipped in 17 points and 11 rebounds. The Bulldogs improve to 19-5 overall and 10-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. The Dogs next host Ridgewood on Friday, February 15th at 7:00pm.

Lesniak Scores Career High in Bulldog Victory vs. Illiana Christian!
The Varsity Bulldogs continue to get every team in the conference's best shot and have continued to find a way to win. Illiana Christian gave the Bulldogs all they can handle in a 64-62 victory for the Dogs. The Bulldogs trailed 18-17 after one quarter and led 36-30 at halftime. The Dogs increased their lead to 57-48 after three quarter, but Illiana Christian wouldn't go away and cut the Bulldog lead to 1 numerous times in the fourth quarter. The Bulldogs held on for the victory. Liam Lesniak led the Bulldogs with 21 points, including 15 in the first half. He also chipped in 6 rebounds and 3 assists. Jack VandeMerkt had 12 points and 4 rebounds, while Miki Ljuboja chipped in 11 points and 17 rebounds. The win improves the Bulldogs to 18-5 overall and 9-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. The Dogs next host Glenbard South at 7:00pm on Friday, February 8th.

Varsity Wins Hard Fought Game With Timothy Christian!
The Varsity Bulldogs jumped out to a quick 8-0 lead. However, Timothy Christian continued to fight back and trailed 25-18 after one quarter. The Trojans outplayed the Dogs in the second quarter and led 39-36 at halftime. The Bulldogs trailed 48-37 after three quarters. The Dogs turned in on in the 4th quarter and made plays down the stretch when they counted to finish with a 72-63 victory. Miki Ljuboja led the Bulldog charge with 26 points and 14 rebounds. Damonta Henry added 18 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists. Liam Lesniak had 12 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds, while Jack VandeMerkt added 9 points and 7 rebounds, including 2 thunderous dunks. The Bulldogs improve to 8-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference and 17-5 overall. The Dogs will be playing their first home game since December 4th, when they host Illiana Christian on Tuesday, February 5th at 7:00pm.

Sophomores Win 7th Straight Game With
Varsity Bulldogs Take Down Marshall at Chops Billinger Memorial Shootout!
The Varsity Bulldogs trailed the Commando's of Marshall 16-12 after one quarter. Then, took a 6 point lead in the second quarter, but was erased quickly by a late second quarter run by the Commando's. The Dogs trailed 32-30 at halftime. Marshall led by as many as 6 early in the 3rd quarter, but the Bulldogs went on a 14-0 run from the mid third quarter until the early fourth quarter to help secure the victory. The Dogs led by 8-10 points most of the fourth quarter before finishing with the 62-54 victory. This game was extra special for Coach McCloskey and the Bulldog program, as all week long he preached defeating Marshall for all the players that played on the RB team in 2010 that lost on a halfcourt shot to Marshall at the buzzer in the Sectional. This game was revenge for them and Coach McCloskey preached to the players about playing for that team after the heartbreak they had to endure in 2010. Miki Ljuboja led the way for the Bulldogs with 22 points and 9 rebounds. Damonta Henry added 16 points and 6 assists, while Eric Loury added 12 points. The Dogs improve to 16-5 overall and play next at Timothy Christian on Friday, February 1st at 7:00pm.

Click Here to Read the Sun Times Article About the Win vs. Marshall

Varsity and Sophomores Both Defeat Fenton! Varsity places 5 guys in double figures!
The Varsity Bulldogs started slow, trailing 9-4 to Fenton, but went on a 16-4 run to close out the first quarter with a 20-13 lead. The Dogs increased the lead to 39-22 at halftime and cruised in the second half to a 78-48 victory. 5 different Bulldogs scored in double figures led by Miki Ljuboja's 17 points and 9 rebounds. Jack VandeMerkt added 16 points, while Jack Gibson and Tyler Campbell each scored 11 points. Eric Loury scored 10 points off the bench. The Bulldogs improve to 15-5 overall and 7-2 in the Metro Suburban Conference. The Dogs take on the Marshall Commandos on Saturday, January 26th at 3pm in the Chops Billinger Memorial Shootout at Whitney Young High School.

Bulldogs Fall To A Very Talented Bogan Team!
Chicago Public League power, Bogan jumped out to a 16-0 lead vs. the Bulldogs at the Martin Luther King Dream Classic at Whitney Young High School. The Dogs fought back and tied the game at 20-20 in the early 2nd quarter. The Dogs trailed Bogan 45-35 at halftime. The Dogs trailed by 10-15 points most of the second half, before falling 82-62. Miki Ljuboja led the Bulldogs with 24 points and 5 rebounds. Damonta Henry added 20 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists. While Jack VandeMerkt added 10 points and 5 blocked shots. The Dogs fall to 14-5 overall and start the second round of conference play at Fenton on Friday, January 25th.

Ljuboja and VandeMerkt Each Score Over 20 in Varsity Win!
The Varsity Bulldogs held off a very pesky Elmwood Park team and secured a 73-53 win, in a game that was much closer throughout than the final score indicates. The Dogs led 30-21 at halftime, however the Tigers cut the Bulldogs lead to 39-37 with about 3 minutes left in the third quarter. The Dogs then went on a 16-4 run to closeout the quarter and take a 55-41 lead after three. The Dogs then increased their lead in the fourth quarter after a couple Elmwood Park runs and finished with the bench clearing 73-53 victory. Miki Ljuboja led four Bulldogs in double figures with 24 points and 9 rebounds. Junior, Jack VandeMerkt added 20 points and 9 rebounds. Damonta Henry had a solid overall game with 13 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists. While, Liam Lesniak chipped in 10 points, 5 assists, and 4 rebounds. Will Kincanon led the Bulldogs with 10 rebounds and also had 6 assists. The Bulldogs improve to 14-4 overall and 6-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. The Dogs take on highly ranked Bogan in the Martin Luther King Dream Classic on Sunday, January 20th at Whitney Young High School at 6:15pm.

Varsity Pulls Out Dramatic Win vs. Ridgewood!
The Varsity Bulldogs pulled out a very hard fought win vs. Ridgewood. The Dogs jumped out to a 20-11 lead after one quarter, but Ridgewood wouldn't go away and tied the game just before halftime 28-28. The Dogs took a 6 point lead after three quarters, but Ridgewood kept fighting back and took a 3 point lead mid fourth quarter. The Dogs got big plays in the final 3 minutes from Will Kincanon, Miki Ljuboja, and Damonta Henry to help close out the victory. Ridgewood made one of two free throws with 0.0 on the clock to help preserve the Bulldog victory, 61-60. After 10 days off, junior Will Kincanon is finally healthy from his ankle injury that has been plaguing him since the 2nd week of practice. He scored a career high 21 points, had 7 rebounds and dished out 5 assists. Damonta Henry had 17 points and 6 assists. Miki Ljuboja and Jack VandeMerkt each contributed 9 points. Liam Lesniak played tremendous defense on Ridgewood's best player, Anthony Mroz. The Bulldogs improve to 13-4 overall and 5-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference and travel to play Elmwood Park on Friday, January 18th at 7:00pm.
Click Here for the Chicago Sun Times Article About the Game

Varsity Bulldogs Finish 3rd at York By Defeating Waubonsie Valley 78-67!
The Bulldogs responded to this morning's loss with a very convincing 78-67 win over a talented Waubonsie Valley team. The Dogs led by 11 at halftime, by 17 after three quarters, and by as many as 19 points in the fourth quarter. Miki Ljuboja scored a career high 33 points. Damonta Henry added 13 points, 7 assists, and 4 steals. Jack VandeMerkt continued his solid play with 12 points and 6 rebounds, while Eric Loury added 9 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds. The Bulldogs finished the always tough tournament with a 4-1 record and improve their overall record to 12-4 heading into the new year. Congratulations to Damonta Henry for being named to the all-tournament team for the second year in a row. The Dogs return to action on January 11th at 7:00pm at Ridgewood.
Click Here to Read the Chicago Sun Times Article About the Game

Varsity Bulldogs Lost In Overtime to Conant. Play Waubonsie Valley for 3rd Place at 6pm.
The Varsity Bulldogs lost a very rough game to an always tough Conant team. The Dogs struggled offensively shooting 3-18 from three point range and 12-42 overall from the floor. Conant plays a very slow and methodical style offensively that really dictated the tempo of the game. The game was tied 31-31 at the end of regulation and Conant controlled overtime defeating the Bulldogs 44-38. Miki Ljuboja led the Bulldogs with 16 points and 9 rebounds and Damonta Henry chipped in 10 points. The Dogs are now 11-4 overall and have a quick turnaround with a 6pm game tonight (Dec 28th) for 3rd place vs. Waubonsie Valley.

Varsity Bulldogs Advance to Final Four of Jack Tosh York Xmas Classic!
The Varsity Bulldogs won their 7th straight game despite 19 turnovers and defeated Kenwood 65-61. Eric Loury led the way with 19 points for the Dogs. The Bulldogs improve to 11-3 overall and play Conant in the semifinals of the Jack Tosh Tournament at 11:30am on Saturday, December 29th. If the Dogs win, they will play in the Championship at 7:30pm, also on Saturday. If they lose, they will play in the 3rd place game at 6:00pm. Come out and support the Bulldogs!

Varsity Defeats Palatine
The Varsity Bulldogs led from start to finish to defeat a solid Palatine team 58-51. The win was the Bulldogs 6th straight and was extra special for Coach McCloskey, as his son Dan is the varsity assistant at Palatine. Damonta Henry led the Bulldog charge with 22 points and 7 rebounds. Jack VandeMerkt continued his steady play with 12 points and Miki Ljuboja chipped in 10 points and 11 rebounds. Eric Loury chipped in 9 points and 6 rebounds. The Dogs continue their play in the Jack Tosh Holiday Classic at York High School at 2:00pm on Friday, December 28th vs. Kenwood.

Varsity Has 3 Players Each Score Over 20 Points In Win vs. Naperville North
The Varsity Bulldogs had 3 guys score 20 or more points in a solid first round win of the Jack Tosh Christmas Classic vs. Naperville North. Damonta Henry had a solid overall game with 23 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists. Miki Ljuboja had 22 points and 14 rebounds. While junior, Jack VandeMerkt had 21 points. The Dogs led 12-11 after one quarter and trailed 26-18 midway thru the second quarter. Coach McCloskey called time out, the Dogs regrouped and cut the Naperville North lead to 31-30 at halftime. The Dogs came out with more energy in the third quarter, scoring 27 points and taking a 7 point lead after three quarters. The Dogs then closed out the game with a 79-70 victory over the Huskies. The win improves the Bulldog record to 9-3 overall and they take on Palatine at 7:30 pm on Thursday, December 27th.

Varsity Places 5 Players in Double Figures in Win vs. Glenbard South!
The Varsity Bulldogs battled through foul trouble throughout the game and held off a very pesky Glenbard South team. The Dogs trailed 17-14 after one quarter and led 31-27 at halftime. The Dogs got off to a quick start in the third quarter, increasing the lead to 12 points, but Glenbard South wouldn't go away and cut the lead to one numerous times late in the third quarter and early in the fourth. However, the Dogs finished off the game with a 78-69 victory over the Raiders. Liam Lesniak scored a career high 18 points and had 6 rebounds to lead the Bulldogs. Damonta Henry had 17 points, while Miki Ljuboja contributed 15 points and 5 rebounds. Eric Loury had 11 points, 5 assists, and 4 rebounds. Will Kincanon returned from an ankle injury with 10 points and 4 assists. The Dogs improve to 8-3 overall and 4-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. The Bulldogs next game is at the Jack Tosh Christmas Tournament at York High School on Wednesday, December 26th at 6:00pm vs. Naperville North.

Bulldogs With Clean Sweep Of All Four Levels vs. Illiana Christian!
The Varsity Bulldogs led from start to finish in their 74-54 victory over Illiana Christian. The Varsity Bulldogs were up 20-10 after one quarter and 43-24 at halftime, before building their lead to as many as 30 points and finishing with the victory. Damonta Henry returned to the lineup and finished with 19 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. Miki Ljuboja chipped in 18 points and 9 rebounds. Eric Loury had a solid all-around game with 10 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 assists. While, 6'6 junior Jack VandeMerkt had 8 points, including a thunderous dunk late in the first quarter that gave the Bulldogs a ton of energy. Liam Lesniak had a solid floor game for the Dogs with 6 assists and 10 rebounds. The Dogs improve to 7-3 overall and 3-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. Next up is Glenbard South on Tuesday, December 18th at 7pm at Glenbard South High School.
Click Here for a Northwest Indiana Times newspaper article about this game.

Loury Steps Up Big In Tough Game vs. Timothy Christian!
The Varsity Bulldogs played shorthanded again with Damonta Henry and Will Kincanon sidelined because of injuries. Eric Loury stepped up big time in their absence with a 30 point, 6 assist, 5 rebounds in the Varsity Bulldogs 68-64 victory vs. Timothy Christian. Loury scored in a variety of ways and played great defense as well. The Dogs led 14-9 late in the first quarter. From that point forward, the rest of the first half was all Timothy Christian, as they took a 35-25 lead into halftime. The Bulldogs stepped up their defense in the second half and took a 43-42 lead after three quarters. The Dogs controlled most of the fourth quarter and made some free throws down the stretch to secure the victory. Miki Ljuboja also played very well with 19 points and 8 rebounds. Jack VandeMerkt stepped up big off the bench with 10 points and 4 rebounds. The Bulldogs improve to 6-3 overall and 2-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. The next varsity game is on Friday, December 14th at Illiana Christian at 7:30.

Varsity Wins Vs. Von Steuben at Team Rose Shootout!
The Varsity Bulldogs improved to 5-3 with a 47-43 victory against Von Steuben from the Chicago Public League in the Team Rose Shootout at the Kroc Center. The Bulldogs played shorthanded without 2 starting guards, Will Kincanon and Damonta Henry, who are both battling injuries. The Dogs responded by taking a 28-20 lead at halftime. Von Steuben made a few adjustments at halftime and the Dogs struggled, only scoring 6 points in the third quarter. The score was tied 34-34 after 3. The Bulldogs led most of the fourth quarter, but couldn't put the Panthers away. Liam Lesniak and Jack Gibson hit some big free throws in the final minute to secure the victory for the Bulldogs. Miki Ljuboja led the Bulldogs with 19 points and 5 rebounds. Eric Loury chipped in 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. Liam Lesniak also had a very solid game with 8 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists. The Dogs host Timothy Christian at 7pm on Tuesday, December 11th.

Varsity Defeats Providence!
The Varsity Bulldogs held an 11-9 lead after one quarter and trailed 23-21 at halftime, before taking control of the game in the second half. The Dogs led 42-35 after three quarters before leading by as many as 15 points in the fourth quarter. A late three by Providence made the final 62-51. The Bulldogs overcame a poor shooting performance and played very unselfish in the second half. Damonta Henry led the Bulldogs with 18 points and 5 assists. Miki Ljuboja added 15 points and 7 rebounds, while Liam Lesniak had 12 points and 6 rebounds. Eric Loury had 9 points and 4 rebounds, while playing great defense on Providence's top scorer, Kevin Kozan. The Bulldogs improve to 4-3 overall and play in the Team Rose Shootout on Saturday, December 8th at 1pm vs. Von Steuben. The game will be played at the Kroc Center on the south side.
Click Here for the Chicago Sun Times Article About the game

Varsity Starts Out Slow And Can't Recover LT!
The Varsity Bulldogs came out very flat and didn't play well at all in the first half vs. Lyons Township. The Dogs were down 19-13 after one quarter and 37-20 at halftime. The Lions increased their lead to as many as 21 points in the third quarter. The Dogs trailed by 17 after three quarters. The Dogs wouldn't quit and cut the deficit to 4 points numerous times in the fourth quarter. However a couple costly turnovers and fouls didn't allow for the Bulldogs to get over the hump, losing 62-56. Damonta Henry led the Bulldogs with 21 points. Eric Loury added 11 points while Liam Lesniak scored 10. Miki Ljuboja had 9 points and 13 rebounds. This game also saw the Bulldogs shoot a very uncharacteristic 10-22 from the free throw line. The Bulldogs drop to 3-3 overall and host Providence Catholic at 7:00pm on Tuesday, December 4th. Also, thank you to our 6th Man Student Section who was out in full force at LT. Your support is greatly appreciated by the entire program!

Varsity Cruises to Blowout Win vs. Fenton! Alumni Game Fun, as Always!
It took the Varsity Bulldogs a little over a quarter to get the kinks out, but rolled at home to a 73-39 victory over the Fenton Bison. The Dogs led 37-16 at halftime and 58-21 after three quarters before clearing the bench and cruising to the victory. Miki Ljuboja continued his solid play with 24 points and 8 rebounds. Damonta Henry chipped in 13 points and 5 rebounds, while Liam Lesniak rounded out the Bulldogs in double figures with 10 points. The Bulldogs showed their unselfishness with 22 assists on 29 made baskets. The Dogs improved their record to 3-2 and are now 1-0 in the Metro Suburban Conference. The Bulldogs travel to crosstown rival, Lyons Township to play the Lions at 6:00pm on Saturday, December 1st.

The annual Alumni Game took place after the Varsity game in Dudley Gymnasium and as alwyas was a ton of fun for the players to come back and play, as well as for Coach McCloskey on the microphone. About 25 former Bulldogs came back to play and many of the games were very competitive with three different games going into overtime and one in double overtime. The old guys playing in the game have a traveling MVP trophy that Brian Sellers and Gary Wojo determined this year would go to Rick Scheck. Former Bulldogs that were in attendance included: Nick Arias '10, Mike Hansa '10, Andrew Hanley '12, Matt Kyrias '04, Shatone Powers '02, Mike Halusek '05, Brandon Davis '03, Willie Merrill '02, Derek Tomasek '09, Joe Manganiello '00, Ryan Sherman '01, Matt Meindl '10, Chris Hitt '10, Tim Fedorski '92, Brian Sellers '92, Ron Vojcik '99, Tom Schultz '96, Jim Janetopolous '91, Gary Wojtulewicz '92, Mike Scheck, Rick Scheck '91, Craig Kos '95, Tyler Kos '05, Andrew Dzija '05. A special thank you goes out to all of the former Bulldogs who help make this event a success every year!!

Varsity Bulldogs Lose Tough One to Brother Rice!
The Varsity Bulldogs started out fast vs. Brother Rice, jumping out to a quick 10-0 lead. However, the Crusaders answered the Bulldogs run and closed out the first quarter with an 18-18 score. Brother Rice had a huge 2nd quarter and took a 41-34 lead going into halftime. However, the Bulldogs did not quit and tied the game numerous times in the second half. Brother Rice went on a 5-0 run after a couple Bulldog turnovers late in the fourth quarter that proved to be costly. The Dogs had one final look at the buzzer that would have tied it and failed to convert, falling to the Crusaders 71-68. Miki Ljuboja had another huge game, leading the Bulldogs with 29 points and 9 rebounds. Eric Loury had a solid game with 19 points and 6 rebounds. The Dogs fall to 2-2 overall and open conference play on Friday, November 30th at home vs. Fenton at 7:00pm. This game is also our annual Alumni Game. Come out and support the Bulldogs!

Varsity Bulldogs Defeat Rich Central!
The Varsity Bulldogs started out slow vs. Rich Central, falling behind early 14-6, but fighting back and tying the game 18-18 after the first quarter. The Dogs went on a 16-2 run to open up a 34-20 lead, before Rich Central fought back to close the gap to 34-28 at halftime. The Bulldogs and Olympians played even for much of the second half before the Dogs opened up a 14 point lead late in the fourth quarter. Rich Central scored a couple meaningless baskets in the final seconds for the final 68-61 margain. The Dogs were led by Damonta Henry's 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists. Miki Ljuboja added 19 points and 9 rebounds. Junior Will Kincanon had a solid statistical game with 11 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists. Jack Gibson had two huge three pointers for 6 points at critical times during the game. The Dogs improve to 2-1 and take on a very solid Brother Rice team at 6pm on Saturday.

Varsity Bulldogs Drop Tough Game to Neuqua Valley.
The Varsity Bulldogs started out slow vs. Neuqua Valley, digging themselves an early hole and couldn't get get themselves out of it. The Dogs trailed 42-27 at halftime. The Bulldogs didn't give up and cut the Wildcat lead to 7 numerous times throughout the late the third quarter and early fourth quarter, but couldn't get over the hump. Neuqua Valley then closed the game out and finished with a 72-55 victory over the Bulldogs. Damonta Henry led the Bulldogs with 20 points. Miki Ljuboja chipped in 11 points and 6 rebounds, while Eric Loury had a solid overall game with 9 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists. The Bulldogs fall to 1-1 overall and host Rich Central at 6pm on Friday, November 23.

Bulldogs Win Season Opener! Miki Ljuboja With Huge Game!
The Varsity Bulldogs opened the season with an impressive 79-46 victory over Urban Prep. The Dogs jumped out to a 24-11 lead after one quarter and 53-22 at the half. The Dogs increased the lead to 75-33 after 3 quarters. Urban Prep held the ball for much of the fourth quarter, ending with a 79-46 Bulldog victory. 6'8 senior, Miki Ljuboja was the story of the game for the Bulldogs. Ljuboja had 16 points and 9 rebounds in the first quarter. He had 26 points and 13 rebounds at the half and finished with 30 points and 17 rebounds in only 18 minutes of action. It's safe to say Ljuboja dominated the game for the Bulldogs. Damonta Henry had a very solid game with 16 points. Eric Loury was the Bulldog assist leader with 5. The Bulldogs were looking for revenge and definitely got it after being defeated by Urban Prep last season. The Dogs are 1-0 and take on Neuqua Valley at 7pm on Wednesday, November 21st.