Everything came together for Independence in a 58-47 non-conference win over Brooklyn on Wednesday.
The Blue Devils jumped out to a 33-14 lead and led 51-29 after three quarters when the starters left the floor.
“Our defensive intensity was excellent,” said Independence head coach Hugh McMahon. “We defended every part of the court really well. Also, we shared the ball really well and hit 11 threes.”
Daniel Mathews led the offensive attack with 25 points. He connected on six 3-pointers.
“I think Dan has done a phenomenal job of not only leading on the court but more importantly for our team’s success he has led the players in practice and off the court,” McMahon said. “He’s really matured in the role.”
Nick Brunsman was second on the team with eight points and was a key contributor on the defensive end of the floor.
“Nick really starts us with his defense,” McMahon said. “He got a couple of those points off of just steals in the open court. I think he started the game with a three for us. He scored in a variety of ways tonight.”
Kyle Stefanski scored seven points, Jason Bianco pitched in with six, Mario Figliola finished with five, Ryan Dworznik contributed with four and Matt Terrano added three for the Blue Devils.
Having seven different players contribute to the scoring effort was the result of the Blue Devils executing the game plan.
“We really wanted to move the ball against their zone and we did a great job of attacking it by moving it inside and out,” McMahon said. “Against their man-to-man we ran our Princeton offense really well moving it side to side.”
The Blue Devils improved to 2-1 on the year and open conference play on Saturday at Richmond Heights.
McMahon is pleased with the progress he has seen out of his team in the first three games.
“It’s a great test for us,” he said. “I think everybody who really played in those first three quarters gave us maximum effort and really understood what we need to do to be successful. I’m very proud of their effort and how much they have progressed over the last few weeks.”
