Sports

2011-12 Preview: Sachem East Boys Basketball

An early look at how the Arrows with fair this season.

Sachem East lost seven seniors and over 80 percent of its scoring from last season. The Arrows will be reloading and refocusing on building another playoff-caliber team in 2011-12.

“When we play well we can play with anybody,” said Sachem coach John Finta, “and when we don’t play well, anybody can play with us.”

Losing Dan Candemeres, the school’s all-time leading scorer, will be tough to swallow, and Finta isn’t sure there are defined expectations yet for this group of players. It’s still very early and they’re finding their way.

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“They’ve seen what we’re capable of doing when we play well,” he said. “We have to be able to do it in a day in and day out basis.”

As usual, William Floyd will bring a talented team to the floor, as will Longwood and Brentwood, with Commack and Ward Melville also in the mix.

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During the off-season Sachem committed to six-days a week of practice, especially last spring. They also hosted spring league and AAU teams, so they know how to play with one another.

“It’s a group that loves the game,” he said. “They’ve put their time in.”

A non-league game earlier this season against Bellport was a tell all of what Sachem is capable of. Down by 10 in the second quarter, the Arrows eventually rallied back to win by 5. They gave up 37 first half points, but were kept in the game by hot shooting Tim Raftice, who was on fire from three-point range.

“We can beat anybody and we can lose to anybody,” Finta said.

Head coach: John Finta, 8th season

Last year: Lost in first round of playoffs 

Key players

  • Randal Colson, Sr.: “He jumps out of the gym,” Finta said, “is a great rebounder and very good around the basket.”
  • Tim Raftice, Sr.: He hit four three-pointers during their opening day game against Bellport and is a solid defender.
  • AJ Tavantzis, Sr.: Plays point guard and can play off the ball. He understands the game, makes three point shots when necessary and is a good passer.
  • Will Silber, Sr.: Is a leader and will use his 6-3 frame well on the court.
  • D’Andre Smith, Jr.
  • Joe Santarpia, Jr.

Key losses

  • Dan Candemeres, all-county
  • Brian Corbett, all-conference

Key Games

  • League opener at Ward Melville, December 20
  • Home opener vs. Pat-Med, January 3
  • Road game at Floyd, January 7
  • Rivalry game Sachem North at Sachem East, January 10
  • Rivalry game Sachem East at Sachem North, February 3


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