Boys Basketball: Hilltoppers seize title behind Michael Mache

Updated: December 30, 2011 11:18PM

Behind 25 points from senior forward Michael Mache, Glenbard West defeated Wheaton Academy 67-48 to capture first place at Glenbard West Holiday Classic.

With the victory the Hilltoppers (10-0) remained perfect and are off to their best start in school history.

“It’s a great start, but its just a great start to keep moving from,” said Mache. “We’re 10-0 and have two tournament championships but we’ve just got to keep moving along and take every day to get better and stronger.”

Wheaton Academy was able to keep the game close for three quarters. The Warriors trailed by five points at halftime, and by just three points entering the fourth quarter.

However, the Hilltoppers’ physical play in the post wore down the Warriors, and Glenbard West pulled away with a dominant performance in the fourth quarter.

The Hilltoppers took control of the game with a 15-3 run to begin the final frame.

“I thought the key to the game was Glenbard West did a great job of playing discipline and getting the ball inside,” said Wheaton Academy coach Paul Ferguson. “That just wore us down in the second half.”

Michael Mache, 6’6”, lead the Hilltoppers with 25 points while Pat Mazza, 6’8”, added 11 points.

The Hilltoppers won the Glenbard West Holiday Classic for the first time since 2007. Wheaton Academy entered the tournament as the defending champion, having won in 2009 and 2010.

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