Game Recap: New Castle vs. Wapahani

Whoa boy! Talk about a statement from the Trojans! As a team, New Castle had an off-season full of hardship and adversity, and they seem to be using it as motivation on the court. Tonight was billed as a game ripe for an upset as 2A Wapahani was visiting Chrysler Fieldhouse. The Raiders were the smaller school, but have been a feel good story, winning their first four games behind the strong play of sophomore Grant Evans, a highly recruited youngster. In fact, IU assistant Tim Buckley was in the stands. But from the tip, it was clear the Trojans were in another class, literally and figuratively, from the Raiders. Their defense was swarming and their offense crisp, dominating Wapahani in all aspects of the game. New Castle held a 43-21 halftime lead. Evans had a miserable half due to the stifling Trojan defense, scoring just five points on 2-10 shooting. The Trojans' Jordan Richardson had 17 points at the break. While Evans did get going in the second half, it was far too little too late. Joel Haler led New Castle with 24 points as New Castle won going away, 84-49. Richardson had 23 points, and also playing well for the Trojans was Steven Bennett, who scored 14 points. Evans poured in 23 points in the second half for a total of 28 points on 9-21 shooting, including 4-9 from downtown. Admirable after starting 2-10. Can you say statement win?