5 Things with James Scott: 5 Reasons to Watch Nighthawk Basketball
February, 2024
The Northfield Nighthawks Boys Varsity basketball team is currently ranked #4 in 5A basketball and 25th overall in the state. The girls team is also having an incredible year ranked #23 in the state with a record of 15-1. As we reach the final stretch of the season and the start of the playoffs, there is no better time to watch your teams play. This month’s edition is focused on the Varsity Boys team who are coming off of an epic win over our cross-campus rivals DSST.
Catching Fire:
The Nighthawks are heating up, winning seven in a row and nine of their last ten games. Over that time span they are not only beating teams, but crushing them. All but one of those wins has been by 13 or more points and the offense is averaging over 80 points a game. As we enter the final stretch of the season, there is no better time for the Nighthawks to hit their stride.
High-Scoring Offense:
One of the main factors in Northfield’s hot streak has been offense. As previously mentioned, they are frequently putting up 80 plus points a game. Considering the games only consist of 4, 8 minute periods, that is incredible. In the Colorado 5A division, Northfield has the sixth most total points scored out of 57 teams. Of the five teams who have scored more points than the Nighthawks, four have played more games than Northfield with Vista PEAK Prep being the lone exception. Not only is this good for the team, but it benefits all the fans as well by adding some excitement.
Fast-Paced and Intense Action:
Northfield plays at an extremely fast tempo. They score many of their points off of steals and fast breaks. Led by Daquan Slayton with 4.8 steals per game, this team has nine players averaging at least one steal a game, an absurd number. In their game Thursday night against DSST Conservatory Green, the Nighthawks defense forced a total of 23 turnovers by the Hornets. This aggressive defensive play leads to plenty of exciting action and points on the other end.
High-Level Play:
Watching these games, it does not take long to realize how good the players in this league are (both Northfield and their opponents). Everybody is big with incredible athleticism and all the players clearly know and love the sport. The effort and skill are there and it makes for really exciting basketball. Even if you are not a massive basketball fan, once you are there, the game is easy to get into.
The Atmosphere:
Anyone can have fun at one of the Nighthawks’ games. The fans’ excitement combined with the packed stands make for a thrilling environment that even non-basketball fans will enjoy. Unlike other sports, such as football, when you attend a basketball game you are right in the action. You can hear the players talking throughout the game and see their emotions right in front of you. This adds to the excitement and makes the game that much more thrilling to see live. With the cheerleaders and drumline there too, the energy in the gym is higher than anyone could ever expect.
5 Things With James Scott is a monthly news segment analyzing Northfield and Denver sports teams. Stay tuned for football updates, basketball highlights, and more!
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Photo credits: Pixabay
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