It was a winning night all around for the Riverhead Blue Waves varsity boys basketball team. The Waves beat West Islip, 55-44 and honored the team’s three seniors, Brandon Tolliver, Deon Shorter and Jesse Patriss during a senior night ceremony organized by the Riverhead Basketball Booster Club.
The Waves also got an honorary new member, RHS senior Michael Hubbard, who received a standing ovation from the crowd during the halftime ceremonies. Michael, who has been hospitalized since the spring of his freshman year due to injuries resulting from a gel “firepot” explosion, was presented with a team jersey and an autographed team basketball.
Michael’s mom, Nancy Reyer, thanked the Blue Waves community for the support shown to Michael over the past three years and spoke of the strides he’s made in recovering from the tragic accident. His most recent milestone was reached just this week, when Michael stood up with the assistance of a physical therapist, who held his arms.
It was an upbeat ending to a tough season for the Waves, who closed with a 4-10 League III record (5-13 overall.)
In addition to organizing the senior night ceremonies, the new booster club donated sneakers to every member of the varsity and JV teams.
RiverheadLOCAL photos by George Faella
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