Nnagbo Leads Park Past Timon in MMAA Boys Hoops Action

Underdog Bishop Timon had upset on its mind when the Tigers walked into the Park School on Saturday afternoon and for much of the first half, it looked like it was going to be a challenge for the first-place Pioneers.

That’s when Ebuka Nnagbo took charge.

The 6-foot-7 big man from Nigeria scored 12 of his game-high 18 points in the second quarter, most coming in a decisive 19-4 run. Park remains undefeated in Western New York with a 72-52 win over Timon in Monsignor Martin Athletic Association action.

“He’s really starting to take that leadership role,” Park coach Rich Jacob said of his star senior. “Both vocally and as a player, playing within himself, and we’re using that to our advantage.”

Up just four midway through the fourth quarter, the Pioneers flexed their muscles. Park used its pressure to cause a number of backcourt turnovers and also thrived in transition, rolling up a 42-23 halftime lead.

“We started to run and put on the pressure,” Nnagbo said. “We played as a team and talked to each other; communication is the most important thing in any game.”

Noah Hutchins scored 17 points for Park (7-1 overall and 2-0 in the MMAA). Jai’den Dunn added 14 and Caleb Hutchins eight for the Pioneers.

“I’m proud of the way the boys played today and I want to build from that and get better,” Jacob said. “We always must get better. Today, pleased with our overall effort.”

Park won its third straight game after its lone loss to Long Beach Poly of Long Beach, Califia at the King Cotton Classic in Pine Bluff, Arkansas in late December.

“I think our press was effective,” Jacob said. “Defensive end, it starts there and then good shot selection, that helps any time.”

Sean Hayes scored 12 points and Tahron Goudelock added 10 for the Tigers (4-3, 0-2 MMAA).