BHS Quintet Hopes to End Two-year Tourney Drought

By KEN HAMWEY,
Staff Sports Writer

The 2023-24 edition of the Bellingham High boys’ basketball team has experience, depth, and athleticism, and it’s those attributes that make coach T.J. Chiappone optimistic that the Blackhawks will end a two-year absence in the post-season playoffs.

Chiappone’s goals this season are to compete for the Tri Valley League Small Division title, qualify for the tournament, improve daily and win the Hutchinson Tournament. The 51-year-old coach believes his objectives are realistic and can be achieved.

“We lost only two seniors from last year’s team, and we’ve got 10 returnees with experience,’’ said Chiappone, who’s in his 14th season as head coach. “Our depth is also a plus, enabling us to rely on our bench. We’re athletic, our defense is dependable, and solid play from our backcourt will be the catalyst for our offense.’’

The return of senior point guard Ross Priscella is a prime reason why Chiappone is upbeat about ending the tourney drought. Priscella was a TVL all-star last year and he led the team in scoring (13.8 points a game), assists (3.8 per game), and was second in rebounding.

“Ross is a two-time captain who’s a difference-maker,’’ Chiappone said. “He can control the tempo in key situations. He’s dynamic with the ball, he sees the court well, and he’s instinctive. A good passer, he’s a shoot-first point guard. We think he’s the top point guard in the small division.’’

Two other guards who’ll be counted on are seniors Dasha Domercant and Ryan Nolan. Domercant averaged 10 points last year and led the squad in rebounding with five a game.

“Dasha plays the two-guard,’’ Chiappone noted. “He’s quick, has speed, can pass, and hit threes. He was the TVL’s Small Division MVP in football. Ryan can play both guard positions. He’s our best outside shooter and he’s capable from the three-point arc. He’ll play a pivotal role against a zone defense.

Senior Tyler Ladouceur is a two-year captain who returns at forward. “Tyler’s strength is rebounding,’’ Chiappone offered, “but he plays like a point forward. He sees the floor well and I’m hoping he improves his scoring.’’

Senior Jerry Domercant will fill the quick forward role. He showed lots of promise his sophomore year, but did not play last season. “It’s nice to have him back this year,’’ Chiappone said. “Jerry is the best athlete at the high school. He’s quick and physical. He’ll guard our opponents’ top offensive players.’’

Senior Alex Hughes is a top-notch defender, and Chiappone admires his defensive presence. “Alex is a physical player who is tenacious on the defensive end,’’ he emphasized.

Two other key components are senior captain Joe Corsi at forward or center and junior guard Max Gamble. “Joe has worked hard on defense and rebounding and has become a leader as a senior,’’ Chiappone offered. “Max’s defensive ability on the ball has been outstanding. His ability on the defensive end fits in nicely with our pressure defense approach.’’

Three players who’ll alternate between forward and center are seniors C.J. Fama, and Latrey Barche, and sophomore Wyatt Callery. “We’ll rely on them to rebound, protect the basket, and provide energy off the bench.’’ Chiappone said.

A physical education teacher at the high school for 28 years, Chiappone has a capable staff of assistants. They include Rich Blue (varsity), Rob Evans (jayvee coach), Kevin Grupposo (jayvee assistant), Brian Martin (freshmen) and J.J. Newcombe (middle school). 

A native of Bellingham, Chiappone relies on an athletic philosophy that combines winning, reaching one’s potential and having fun. “It’s important that the players enjoy their high school experience and be good ambassadors for their school,’’ he said.

Chiappone also hopes his players learn some valuable life lessons from athletics.

“Learning how to overcome adversity is a great lesson that sports teach,’’ he emphasized. “Players can also learn how to be quality leaders and good teammates. Time management is another key lesson along with respecting your opponent. As much as I want our players to be competitive on the court, I also want them to be kind off the court.’’

The Blackhawks defensive style this season will be different. Chiappone will be employing an up-tempo, pressure defense instead of a half-court approach. “On offense, we’ll push the ball and hope for some easy baskets,’’ he said.

One of the team’s goals is to battle for the TVL Small Division crown, and that objective is a definite possibility. Chiappone believes the contending squads will be Norton, Medway and Dedham. “Medway is a well-coached, veteran group, Norton is a traditionally strong program and Dedham is always in the mix,’’ he noted.

At the Bulletin’s deadline, the Blackhawks had a 1-1 record, defeating Blackstone Valley Tech and losing to Dover-Sherborn.

Last year’s squad, which finished at 4-16, had some growing pains. Now, 10 players from that contingent are back and they’re eager to provide quality experience, depth, and athleticism.