Game Preview: Shawano Hawks vs. New London Bulldogs

The Shawano Hawks (1-7, 0-2 conference) will face the New London Bulldogs (4-6, 1-2 conference) in a highly anticipated game at Shawano Community High School. With both teams seeking to build momentum, this matchup is crucial as conference play intensifies.

Shawano Hawks: Key Players

1. Logan Sipple: The leading scorer for Shawano, averaging 19.6 PPG, has been their most consistent offensive threat. His 54.1% field-goal shooting and ability to hit from long range make him a tough cover.
2. Will Verkuilen: Averaging 14.6 PPG and leading the team with 57 rebounds, Verkuilen provides a strong inside presence while shooting an impressive 86.7% from the free-throw line.
3. Crew Weisnicht: Weisnicht anchors the paint for Shawano, averaging 6.2 PPG and contributing on the defensive end with 13 steals this season.

New London Bulldogs: Key Players

1. Joseph Daly: Daly is the offensive leader for New London, averaging an outstanding 24.8 PPG on 54.3% shooting. His ability to score from anywhere on the court, including 31 three-pointers, makes him a defensive priority for Shawano.
2. Ryan Dalhoe: Averaging 9.6 PPG with a strong rebounding presence (59 boards), Dalhoe is a reliable secondary scorer.
3. Camron Taylor: Taylor contributes 6.4 PPG on 40.7% shooting and adds depth to the Bulldogs’ offense.

Season Overview

Shawano Hawks Recent Games

The Hawks have had an up-and-down season, including a strong 81-58 win over Clintonville but recent struggles in close games, such as their 53-54 loss to Merrill. They’ll aim to leverage home-court advantage to turn things around.

New London Bulldogs Recent Games

The Bulldogs have been inconsistent, with a standout performance in their 89-61 win over Winneconne and a dominant 73-39 victory over Clintonville. However, losses to tough teams like Ashwaubenon (56-81) and Seymour (55-69) have exposed defensive vulnerabilities.

Recent Matchup Highlights

• Shawano’s Key Wins: Their 81-58 victory over Clintonville demonstrated their offensive capabilities, with contributions across the board from Sipple, Verkuilen, and Weisnicht.
• New London’s Offensive Explosion: The Bulldogs’ 73-39 rout of Clintonville showcased their offensive depth, led by Daly’s scoring dominance.

Keys to Victory

Shawano Hawks

• Contain Joseph Daly: Limiting Daly’s scoring will be crucial to disrupting New London’s offensive rhythm.
• Control the Boards: Winning the rebounding battle with Verkuilen and Weisnicht will be key.
• Efficient Offense: Continue to shoot at a high percentage while avoiding turnovers.

New London Bulldogs

• Spread the Scoring: While Daly leads the way, contributions from Dalhoe and Taylor will be essential.
• Defensive Intensity: Slow down Sipple and Verkuilen to limit Shawano’s offensive firepower.