Wednesday, December 15, 2021
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Continued from Page 9 freshman team that went undefeated last year. They’re long and wide.” Sophomore Kelvin Vasquez is a 5-foot-10 guard who has made a comeback this season. Vasquez missed all of last season due to COVID-19 symptoms, but he’s back and making his presence felt. “He’s a slasher,” D’Andrea said of Vasquez. “He’s really quick. He’s strong to the basket and gets to the basket a lot. He’s like our engine who gets us going. He’s a scrappy player who goes and goes.” Junior Bernie Pimentel is a 6-foot-1 forward who makes plays, especially on the defensive side. “He’s very good defensively,” D’Andrea said. “He’s probably our best rebounder. He’s developed into a decent basketball player. He should help us on the glass.” Junior Ken Jaramillo is a 5-foot-8 point guard who will get minutes in place of McGeehan and Crudele. “He’s developed a good mid-
C ELEBRATING
Photo by Jim Hague
The North Arlington High School boys’ basketball team looks to be vasty improved this season. Front row, from left, are Shane Gilchrist, David Martinez and Matt O’Mara. Back row, from left, are head coach Marcello D’ Andrea, Israel Alcantara, Will Hannon, Kelvin Vasquez and Oscar Torres.
range game,” D’Andrea said of Jaramillo. “He can play.” Senior Shane Gilchrist is a 5-foot-9 guard. “He can put it in the basket,” D’Andrea said. “He’s a smart
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kid. He knows the offense and knows what to do. I think we have seven or eight guys who will see vital minutes this season.” The Vikings begin their season Friday night at home against Paterson Charter. They then tussle with league rival Hasbrouck Heights on Monday. The Vikings will welcome Bergen Tech, University Charter of Jersey City and local rival Belleville to the Bill Ferguson Memorial Christmas Tournament, the first tourney since the passing of the legendary coach and administrator earlier this year. D’Andrea knows that better days are ahead. “We’ve already seen some peaks and valleys,” D’Andrea said. “But I really think we’re on an upswing. I love the youth we have. I really think we have a chance to be pretty decent.” That’s “coach speak” for “watch out!” The Vikings will be much improved this season.
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