Blair boys’ varsity basketball falls to the John F. Kennedy Cavaliers

Varsity Blair boys' basketball faces Kennedy 01/09/25

Photo: The Blair Blazer's defense working hard to keep Kennedy from scoring

The Blair Blazer's defense working hard to keep Kennedy from scoring Photo courtesy of Sydney Humpert and Thea Womack.

On Thursday, Jan. 9, the Blair boys’ varsity basketball team (4-3) faced the John F. Kennedy (Kennedy) Cavaliers (6-2) in a game defined by turnovers, physical defense, and clutch three-point shooting. Despite moments of brilliance, the Blazers struggled with fouls, missed free throws, and maintaining possession — ultimately falling 67-60 after a spirited second-half push. 

Kennedy set the game's tone early, with quick passes and interceptions that kept them dominating the paint. The Cavaliers capitalized on Blair’s turnovers and missed opportunities, building a 6-2 lead within minutes. Blair’s defense, especially sophomore guard Paul Ransom, managed to force a few key stops — but Kennedy’s strong interior play kept the Blazers on their heels. By the end of the first quarter, the Cavaliers were ahead 13-8.

In the second quarter, Kennedy further extended their lead through a series of perimeter shots and leaning into their rebounding strength. Blair had flashes of offensive cohesion — particularly with good passing sequences between junior guard Bakarr “B.K” Abu and sophomore forward Joel Turkson — but they struggled to weave through Kennedy’s defense and make points. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers’ consistent scoring, especially from free throws after Blair fouls, pushed their halftime lead to 32-21. 

Despite the setbacks, the halftime break rejuvenated the Blazers. Coming out of it with renewed energy, the Blazers went on a critical run, cutting Kennedy’s lead to just four points at one stage. Blair’s defense tightened, forcing the Cavaliers into rushed shots and turnovers, while Abu and Ransom led the offensive charge, working together for several key baskets. The Blazers’ improved coordination and transitions reinvigorated their momentum, but Kennedy responded with important shots to maintain a slim margin — ending the quarter ahead 46-38. 

In the final quarter, the Blazers kept up the fight, bringing the game within six points. Abu nailed a crucial three-pointer to close the gap to 63-57, and Blair’s defensive intensity disrupted Kennedy’s rhythm on multiple possessions. However, the Blazers continued to be plagued by frequent fouls, and Kennedy utilized their free-throw opportunities to extend their lead. Turnovers in the final minutes and missed free throws by Blair proved costly, allowing Kennedy to secure the win. 

Kennedy’s size and Blair’s turnovers were decisive in the outcome. Senior guard Daniel Potts reflected on the game, discussing some of the issues the Blazers ran into, mainly maintaining defense against their larger opponents. “The most challenging part was keeping their ‘bigs’ out of the paint. They’ve got a couple of big guys, and that was tough,” he said. Despite this, Potts noted the team’s strong third-quarter push. “We went on a run and cut [Kennedy’s] lead to four, which helped us bring our momentum back,” Potts explained. 

The Blazers will take on the Wheaton Knights (away) on Friday, Jan. 10 at 7:15 p.m. Tickets can be found here.