With every game, a basketball team can send a message.
Century boys basketball’s is clear: “We may not be the biggest, but we are going to be the toughest.”
“We might not have any size, but we have the most fight,” guard Nate Brown said. “That’s why we’re the team to beat in the county.”
After a big win Friday against arch rival Liberty, the Knights were back at it Tuesday night, making the statement and setting the tone as they outhustled and out worked Westminster en route to a 52-41 win.
The win puts Century (8-1, 3-0 Carroll County) alone atop the county standings.
“Just a great all-around effort from our guys tonight,” Century coach George Wunder said. “Proud of the way we came out and played hard from the beginning.”
Offensively, the show ran through Nick Baron as he scored the game’s first 11 points, and totaled 16 in the first quarter alone.
“He hit that opening 3 and it got him going from there.” Wunder said. “He’s a joy to coach.”
Barron has been the offensive spark for the Knights the entire season, embracing the larger role he earned after years as a key reserve.
“I just try to get to my spots and make the right plays.” Baron, who finished with a game-high 22 points, said. “I know if I hit shots it opens things up for everybody else.”
Once Baron got going, the lead ballooned and the Knights moved like a well-oiled machine.
Brown started to hit deep shots and Dan Reilly soon followed as Wunder and his squad enjoyed a double-digit lead at the half.
Even when Westminster (3-4, 3-1) started to fight back, the real fight was down low as the Knights came away with every lose ball.
After a productive offensive effort in his last game, Riley took to the glass Tuesday, scrapping with the Owls’ big men as he and his teammates simply wanted it more.
“We preach energy and effort everyday,” Wunder said. “I really don’t have to say much because they all hold each other accountable and see a standard.”
Now moving to 3-0 in the county, not only has the win cemented the Knights as a county title threat, but served as yet another sign that Wunder’s team not only has a formula for winning, but an identity that will take them through the seasons upcoming stretch.
“They work hard and hold each other accountable.” Wunder said. “It’s a great group to coach.”
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