The long game for the Falcon boys’ basketball team emerged as they defeated Cheyenne Mountain 59-54 at their home arena on Jan. 29.Six three-pointers were a major factor in the Falcons success. Eric Perez supplied three of them, while Lewis Baumann, Onorio Franco and Brandon Cain each added one. Baumann led in total scoring with 21 points.Then, playing with only two days rest, they took on the Mesa Ridge Grizzlies at Falcon High School. They were tied at the half and then outscored the Mesa Ridge team 32-29 in the second half to come away with the win.Senior Gabriel Jackson led the Falcons in scoring with 17 points and 12 rebounds, while Eric Perez added 16 points, including four free throws. Perez joined the team after the beginning of the season because he also played on the successful Falcon football team.Roy Vieux has been the head coach for six years. He came from St. Mary’s High School. “We try to teach a system that stresses defense and our running game and using the post offense,” Vieux said. “Our squad isn’t large, but they are quick.” He said this year’s team has a different dynamic and the hardest part of working with them is getting them to work together. “Now they are really starting to be a unit,” he said.The team has played several 5A teams with only one loss. Vieux said he thinks they have a good chance to make it to the playoffs. “We’re definitely in the hunt,” he said. Although they suffered a close loss to Fountain-Fort Carson Feb. 2, the coach said they are still a league factor.
