The Nederland boys’ team enjoyed a banner basketball season but didn’t finish it in the way the Panthers had hoped, dropping a 54-42 decision to Dayspring Christian Academy in 2A District Tournament play on Tuesday, February 21, at the Nederland High School gymnasium.

The Panthers, finishing 11-7 in the Foothills League, led early in the contest and were tied with the Eagles, on the Mile High League, 25-25 at the half. But Nederland was hampered by senior Max Godsil being whistled for four fouls before halftime; he was taken out by Coach John Leventhal with just over three minutes remaining in the second quarter and didn’t start the second half.

The Eagles took advantage of Godsil’s absence, scoring the first 11 points of the third quarter and taking a 36-25 lead. Nederland pulled to within 36-30, but never got any closer for the remainder of the game as inconsistent calls on the court appeared to make Godsil - cognizant of not picking up his fifth foul - and the Panthers tentative at times.

“We need to play more disciplined defense,” Leventhal said. “We will work on that as a team.”

Senior Nico Dow led Nederland with 18 points while Godsil, who was averaging 10 points per game, finished with six. Rick Fortunato also added six points with Gavin Dillon and Michael Garduno contributing four points each. Austin Chareunsouk and Kiryu Sugishita scored two points apiece and Garduno was a force on defense.

Leventhal said the team was very excited to play and host this tournament game. The Panthers’ motto is “together” and they displayed that all season. “We really did have a great season and this heartbreaking loss can’t diminish that in any way,” he said.

Leventhal gives credit to the players. He called it “a magical season,” and no one expected them to accomplish what they did. The leadership of the senior captains, Dow and Godsil, gave a rhythm and confidence within the team that is hard to put into words.

It is always with some sadness to say goodbye to the seniors on the team. This season Nederland had four seniors on the basketball team: Chareunsouk, Dow, Godsil, and Mason Lupe. They will be missed.

It was exciting to watch the Panthers play basketball this season. To the 3-pointers, the picture perfect lay-ups, the blocked shots and jump shots…these players displayed great teamwork, as well as grit and stamina. They love the game of basketball.