UNADILLA VALLEY – The Unadilla Valley men’s varsity basketball team exploded offensively to win considerably against non-conference Waterville on a score line of 72-46 last night. Their record now stands at an impressive 9-4 on the season, and they are 5-1 in their division.

The Storm burst out in the first quarter and quickly took a commanding 15-4 lead with a little over two minutes left in the quarter, courtesy of an 11-point run. Brett Hanslmaier was once again key for UV, scoring eight of his 14 points in the quarter.

“Brent Hanslmair is a senior, that’s kind of what I expect out of him,” said UV head coach Matt Osborne.

UV continued their red-hot start in the second quarter. They tacked on 19 points to lead at the half-time break 39-24.

Following the break, Waterville gained some momentum. “We got a little anxious in the beginning of the second half. We didn’t play great defense. We switched up to a zone, because we were in a little bit of foul trouble,” said Osborne. “We gave up too many easy driving lay-ups.”

That momentum didn’t last long, however, as UV came right back to end the third quarter on a 10-3 run.

Fouls played a major role in the final two quarters. UV shot only 41 percent from the line, on 9-22 for the game, while their opponents shot 70 percent, going 16 for 23.

Andrew Jackson finished the night as UV’s top scorer, with 21 points. “I thought he had a real good first and second quarter. He played great defense,” said Osborne. Tyler Simmons and Ethan Gray also played their part for the Storm with 11 and nine points each respectively. Waterville’s Isiah Spooner finished as joint top scorer on the night, also netting 21 points.

It’s back to business for the Storm tomorrow as they take on Afton. Osborne is keeping his team focused, “We’re going to get a little rest and be prepared to go and play hard. Not have a let down and make sure we take care of business down there.”