Boys Basketball: History made as Hampshire tops Marengo

Updated: February 7, 2012 9:54PM

History was made in Marengo on Tuesday night as the Whip-Purs defeated Marengo 40-21.

Hampshire senior Tyler Watzlawick reached the 1000 point milestone when he scored his third and fourth points of the game from the foul line just over two minutes in to the contest.

According to Hampshire coach Bob Barnett, Watzlawick is only the second Hampshire player (David Ross) to reach the 1,000-point mark. The Carroll College recruit was impressed with his accomplishment.

“It seems like it was yesterday when I was a freshman happy to make the varsity team,” said Watzlawick. “I do have to say I’m surprised to have done it at the free-throw line because I’ve struggled from their recently. This accomplishment is very humbling. My coaches and teammates have really helped me become the player I am today.”

Between the first and second quarters, the Indians’ staff recognized Watzlawick’s accomplishment and presented the Hampshire senior with the game ball.

“I was shocked they (Marengo) did that for me,” said Watzlawick. “It meant a lot that they gave me the game ball.”

The actual game wasn’t as pretty for Hampshire or Marengo. Tuesday’s nonconference game was a defensive struggle for both teams, but Hampshire was able to get enough points to earn the victory.

Hampshire (13-9) held Marengo (8-13) to 20 percent shooting and forced 14 Indian turnovers.

“This was an ugly victory,” said Barnett. “I’m happy we survived. Our free throw shooting was good and that was pretty much it. We’ll get back to work tomorrow.”

Coach Barnett was pleased with the milestone his senior forward reached in Tuesday’s game.

“Tyler is the only four year player I’ve had in my career,” said Barnett. “I’m happy to see what he has accomplished. He’s a great player and a great kid.”

Watzlawick and Shane Hernandez led Hampshire with 11 points each. Watzlawick added 14 rebounds and Hernandez added six blocks.

Marengo was led by Nick Ollero who scored seven points.

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