Hopkinton 4th Grade Travel Basketball Team Faces Hopedale For South Central League Championship

On Sunday afternoon, Hopkinton's fourth-grade travel basketball team put forth a valiant effort in their third clash against the swarming defense of the Hopedale travel team.

For their hard work and play all season and their great attitudes, they are this week's Hopkinton Whiz Kids.

Sunday's game opened with a bucket by Hopedale, only to be followed by a fast-break two by Hopkinton's Mac Lind.

The teams kept the score close throughout the first half with aggressive, defensive play. The score at the half was 19-7, Hopedale.

Hopedale opened the second half by sinking two free-throws. Hopkinton countered with two baskets by Luke D'Aloia and Mac Lind.

Hopkinton cut the lead to 23-13 with Dylan McBride making fast-break steals and sinking two free throws.

Michael Povakad showed his dribbling and passing skills, looking for the open man under the basket.

William Heubner, Timmy Lane, Kyle Stukel, Danny Sage, Robby Pagliuca and Brett Daley all fought hard under the boards trying to shut down Hopedale's relentless offense and diving for rebounds.

Despite Hopkinton's best effort, Hopedale won the game with a final score of 36-20.

Hopkinton coaches Matt D'Aloia and John Sage were impressed with the team's effort.

"I am very proud of each and every one of the boys and how hard they have worked to get to the championship," said D'Aloia.

"Hopedale was a tough team, and I was impressed with our boys staying tough and putting forth their best efforts," he said.

Proud parents snapped pictures of the boys receiving their trophies, and will look forward to another successful season next year.

For their never-say-die attitudes and play, the Hopkinton Patch names the Hopkinton fourth-grade travel basketball team this week's Whiz Kids.