Cover Photo via Kevin Prefer

The Middletown North basketball team has been on an impressive journey this season, demonstrating resilience and teamwork as they push toward a potential Shore Conference Tournament title. The Lions are currently 16-6 and have captured the B-Coastal Shore Conference Division Title under Head Coach Chris Hoffman.  After a difficult start with a loss to Rumson-Fair Haven in mid-December, the Lions have found their groove, winning key games across multiple competitions and strengthening their postseason hopes.

The season opened with a tough 67-51 loss to Rumson-Fair Haven on December 16, but the Lions bounced back quickly, securing a narrow 45-42 win over Manchester Township on December 19. The squad faced more challenges in the CVC-Shore Challenge Invitational, losing 51-39 to Hightstown on December 22, but they rebounded in the WOBM Classic with a 39-36 victory over Toms River East on December 26. They went on to defeat Manchester Township 57-39 on December 28 before falling to Wall 49-36 on December 30.

Despite a 54-46 loss to Middletown South on January 3, the Lions went on to claim several notable victories. A 54-48 win against Donovan Catholic on January 4 was followed by a dominant 63-27 win over Keansburg on January 6. They also defeated Keyport 45-42 on January 9 and Ocean Township 51-39 on January 11.

January saw some setbacks, including a 61-46 loss to Matawan on January 14, but Middletown North bounced back with a thrilling 55-53 victory over Achievement First Brooklyn (NY) on January 18. Though they lost to Cristo Rey (PA) 71-50 on January 19, the Lions continued their strong play, beating Raritan 57-34 on January 21, Keansburg 65-42 on January 23, and Brick Memorial 52-46 on January 25. They closed out the month with victories over Henry Hudson (50-33 on January 27) and Keyport (56-53 on January 28), before topping Matawan 58-48 on January 31. Their latest win, a 56-44 triumph over Henry Hudson on February 3, demonstrated their continued growth as a team.

As the Lions head into the Shore Conference Tournament, they are poised to make a deep run, starting with a second-round matchup against Rumson-Fair Haven on February 13 at 6:00 pm. With a solid record and a talented roster, they are hungry for revenge and the opportunity to take the next step in their postseason journey.

Key Players and Stats:

Middletown North has been fueled by strong performances from several players this season, with senior forward Colin Byrne leading the way. Byrne has been a standout, contributing 413 points, 115 rebounds, 55 assists, and 26 steals over 22 games. His shooting accuracy has also been impressive, hitting 82 two-pointers and 61 three-pointers, along with 66 free throws made out of 91 attempts.

Other key contributors include:

• Eddie Lopez, a junior guard, who has been a significant asset with 177 points, 76 rebounds, 23 assists, and 17 steals across 16 games. Lopez has also demonstrated his shooting range, making 29 two-pointers, 33 three-pointers, and 20 free throws.

• Brayden Marcotte, a junior guard, who has added 122 points, 62 rebounds, and 65 assists, showcasing his versatility and all-around play.

• Nate Tyburczy, a sophomore guard, with 203 points, 49 rebounds, and 42 assists, along with notable defensive contributions (22 steals) over 22 games.

The team also benefits from the scoring depth and leadership of other players like Jac Colantino, Damien Merker, and Joe Grasso, as well as solid contributions from juniors like Jack Kelly and Matt Dickie.

With a team total of 1,112 points, 520 rebounds, and 268 assists, the Lions have demonstrated excellent team chemistry, depth, and the ability to compete at a high level. As the Shore Conference Tournament kicks off, all eyes will be on Middletown North to see if they can carry this momentum into the postseason and make a run at the championship.

Upcoming Matchup: Middletown North will face Rumson-Fair Haven once again in the Shore Conference Tournament, with the game set for February 13 at 6:00 pm. The Lions are looking to build on their recent success and continue their journey toward the title.