POTTSTOWN, PA - The Hill School hosted Episcopal Academy on Wednesday, December 6th in a game that showcased an old teammate in new colors.
Former Churchman Nick Alikakos led Hill with a team high 16 points to give the Blues a 71-55 victory over Episcopal.
Alikakos was a standout member on Episcopal Academy’s varsity boys’ basketball team, totaling 1,547 points during his time with the Churchmen. Upon graduating from EA last year, Alikakos had initial plans of attending the Naval Academy. However, he decided to de-commit and attend the Hill School for a prep year. Now, baring a new school name across his chest, Alikakos admitted that he was both anxious and excited about facing his previous teammates in this anticipated match-up.
“It was kind of a weird feeling. A lot of people were asking me that question all week. It felt weird because I wanted to win like any other game, but at the same time I was playing against my former teammates who I developed a brotherhood with,” said Alikakos. “Playing against my brother (Andrew) was special. We’re as close as it gets and he’s also my best friend. Going into the game we didn’t talk trash or anything, we just wished each other good luck. I have nothing but love and respect for the coaching staff and every player on that team but I am glad that we were able to get the win tonight.”
Alikakos’ younger brother and old teammates had mutual feelings of eagerness and respect leading up to this special non-league game.
“It was a lot of fun,” said sophomore guard Andrew Alikakos. “I’ve been playing with him since I was 5 or 6 years old and to play an actual game against him and guard him was pretty awesome.”
Brother's Nick (#24) and Andrew Alikakos (#42) on the Court in EA vs. The Hill School (photo by: Alexandra Conroy)
“It was definitely weird playing against one of my best friends for the first time in 5 years,” said EA senior captain, Colin Phillips. “It was great though he is such a great player and I loved it.”
“Although I was excited, playing against Nick was definitely a weird feeling. It was great playing with him in the past years and playing against him was definitely a different feeling. But as the game went on and it started to flow more, all of that was behind us and it was time to battle against each other,” said EA sophomore guard Jack Fitzpatrick.
Although the friendly on-court reunion took center stage, both teams did not let it interrupt their game plan. The Hill School (5-2) was resilient on both sides of the ball and the Blues used their height to their advantage.
“We have a lot of talent this year so, we are definitely strong,” said Hill senior guard Chase Audige.
Going forward, Hill will compete in the Scholar Roundball Classic and in the Mercer tournament before playing the Hun School on January 6.
During the game, Episcopal excelled defensively but ultimately struggled to put together an offensive run to make a comeback.
“We didn't do what we needed to do. We will learn from it, correct it, and move forward,” said EA junior guard Matt Dade.
Currently, the Churchmen garner a 2-3 non-league record. Episcopal will play their league season opener at Philadelphia University on Friday, January 5 against Springside Chestnut Hill Academy.
“I think that we’ve been playing hard together as a team. We’re gritty on the defensive side of the ball and get after it. But on the offensive side, we just need to keep working since we’re a younger team with new parts, our offensive chemistry isn't there yet,” said EA junior guard Jalin Meachem.
One of the Churchmen’s new faces is sophomore guard, Alex Capitano, a local transfer from Great Valley. Capitano said that his new coaches and teammates have welcomed him with open arms.
“I feel like they really embraced me as one of them,” said Capitano.
Looking ahead, EA will host the Phelps School tonight and visit Peddie on Friday before playing in the Mercer tournament at the Hill School Dec.16-17.
Photo Gallery by: Alexandra Conroy
