News  > Boys Varsity

03/09/06

Published: March 09, 2006 12:12 am

NFHS to play Fairport

BOYS BASKETBALL: Dan Bazzani is impressed with Saturday’s regional opponent.
By Nate Beutel
Niagara Gazette
Niagara Falls, NY. —

As it turns out, J-Mac will not be making an appearance in Buffalo on Saturday, but rather the Fairport Red Raiders will travel to Western New York to take on the defending state and Federation champions — Niagara Falls — in the New York State Class AA Far West Regional.

Fairport used a sharp-shooting offensive attack coupled with a strong defensive effort to down Greece Athena 66-58 in the Section V Class AAA-AA crossover game at Blue Cross Arena on Wednesday.

NFHS coach Dan Bazzani traveled with members of his team to see first-hand what they would be up against Saturday and came away very impressed, even more so than after the Red Raiders took the Falls to the brink during a 52-50 loss in the Cataract Classic in early December. That loss was the only blemish on the season for Fairport (20-1).

“They are a much improved ballclub,” Bazzani said. “Kyle Downey hit six 3s and the point guard McAdam really runs the show well. He’s smart and gets the ball inside to the big guys, Magee and Condello. They have good size, shoot it very well and play excellent defense.”

Saturday’s game, which is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at the Buffalo State College Sports Arena, may be moved because of expectations for a large crowd according to Section VI officials. UB’s Alumni Arena and even HSBC Arena have been mentioned, but Bazzani prefers the game to stay scheduled as it is .