On Saturday, January 11, the boys basketball team took down the No. 2 ranked, Skutt Catholic Skyhawks. Sophomore Kellen Murphy played a key role in the win and executed when the team needed him down the stretch.

After Skutt took the lead with a free throw, the Wolves were down by one point with 4.7 seconds left in the game. Murphy got the ball and scrambled down the court to launch a three pointer at the buzzer. With a swish, the Wolves took the win 69-67. 

“That’s a huge shot against Skutt that not a lot of people could make,” junior basketball player Ethan Beachy said. “But I trusted him and knew the shot was good as soon as it was in the air.”

With 10 points against Skutt, Murphy had a significant impact on the victory. Murphy is averaging 11.8 points per game this season, but his talents go beyond his scoring abilities. 

“Kellen has taken on a bigger role this year, especially defensively,” head basketball coach Andy King said. “We know how talented he is offensively, but he really is an all around player.” 

Murphy works hard in practice and on his own time to improve. Along with school practices, Murphy competes on a summer team and takes private lessons. 

“Not only has his defense improved this year, but his confidence as well,” Beachy said. “The step from a freshman up to a sophomore is huge.”

As a two year starter, Murphy has been able to grow his skills and confidence at a young age. In a high-pressure game, it is important for players to remain confident and Murphy showcased this against Skutt. 

“He doesn’t really mind pressure,” King said. “Whether he had made ten straight shots or missed ten straight shots that day, he would’ve taken that shot with confidence.”

After their win against Skutt, the Wolves are ranked No. 2 and stand at 9-1, their highest record in Elkhorn North history. Murphy’s buzzer beater secured the win that will continue the successful momentum of the Wolves this season.