The Maine West varsity basketball team has shown very well thus far into the season. Their four‑win, one‑loss conference record stands them in first place in the north division of the Central Suburban League. They have an overall record of 6‑5.

Tied with Deerfield for that first place birth, the Warriors have had a long and hard fight to get themselves to the top. Maine West beat Highland Park December 16. Following that win the bucketmen found themselves in the Notre Dame Christmas Tournament. That tournament found them winning the Consolation Tournament and bringing home a trophy and glory for our Warriors. In that series the bucketmen lost their first game to Notre Dame qualifying themselves for the Consolation Tournament. They proceeded to down both of their opponents, including the deciding game with Fremd which went into overtime.

The Warriors came back home at the close of Christmas vacation to meet Maine East. That game, full of rivalry between the two Maine Schools not to mention the great spirit that was displayed, was close to the last second of play. With a point deficit and six seconds remaining, Bruce Freeman '73 stole the ball and set up for the final Joe Thimm '73 two‑pointer that gave the Warriors the go ahead and the victory.

The next day was not as profitable for the Warriors. They were downed by Wheeling. Hampered throughout the evening by an injury to Doug Meyers '74, the Warriors couldn't overcome a 16‑point deficit and dropped the non‑conference battle.

The bucketmen stayed home for one more game, this one against the Niles North Vikings. The game was close through to the last minute. The final score of 68‑62 bears this out. The standout play of many second string ballplayers was what carried the Warriors out on top. Tom Grueter '74 and John O'Connor '74 combined for 21 points. Grueter, replacing the injured Meyers, showed very well, scoring five field goals as well as two free throws to total 12 points. John O'Connor, another second stringer, tallied nine big points, those coming from three field goals and three free throws. The play of these two fine players may indicate what is to come of this team.

Glen Dalbke '71, commenting about the upcoming games, said, 'Our next three games will be tough. We will have to beat New Trier West." Commenting on the upcoming Maine South game, Dalbke said, "We can beat Maine South. There is no doubt in my mind that if we play up to par we can handle them."