Mount Pisgah varsity boys basketball beat Blessed Trinity in overtime on Saturday, November 16 by a score of 46-44. 

With the win, the Patriots moved to 7-0 (3–0 Region), making this their best start since the 2005-06 season when they also began with seven straight victories, ultimately finishing with a record of 23-2. 

During their win streak, Mount Pisgah has put up an average of 60 points per game, while holding their opponents to just 50.3 ppg. 

First year head coach Matt Hixenbaugh attributes the team’s success to its preparation so far this season. 

“Our mentality for each game is hopefully the same,” Hixenbaugh said. “We want to execute the game plan, excel at the things that happen most and make each other better.” 

The Titans put up a fight Saturday, with Blessed Trinity’s Jax Bouknight as a standout player. Boukknight was challenged defensively throughout the whole game by Patriots junior Gabe Carter. 

Junior Nate Gordon had an impressive showing on defense with 3 blocks and over 10 rebounds, while junior Jojo Peterson went off for 13 points offensively. Peterson also added two key free throws late in the fourth quarter to secure the win. 

The game was close throughout, making for an intense atmosphere. The crowd was a factor all game long, especially following a dunk by Gordon served up by Peterson.

Many students commented after the game how impressed they were with the composure of the team and coach Hixenbaugh.  

Friday night, Mount Pisgah defeated Whitefield 64–42. The Patriots put up a 17 points in the first quarter. As the game progressed, the team’s energy seemed to grow. 

By half time, the Patriots more than tripled their opponents score, ending the quarter with a score of 31-12. The second half, The Patriots came out with a sense of urgency to win.

Peterson noted the team’s success so far to the composure of Hixenbaugh and teamwork among all the players as reasons for the team’s hot start. 

“Everyone is playing unselfish and our coach’s demeanor during games also helps.” 

This mentality was key as they had a game the next night. Pinecrest was a game to not forget.  

The start of the first quarter was exciting with the Patriots scoring 18 points. Both teams were battling the whole time and ended up going into overtime with their perfect record on the line. Lucky, the players stayed calm and collected and ended up with the 71-65 win. 

Junior Nick Sperros explained that sticking together during these tough games is what is going to help them win it all. 

“We are a brotherhood, we enjoy playing with each other and we believe we have the tools to win it all this year.”