Ashwaubenon – Drew ‘Sudsy’ Siudzinski nailed a controversial buzzer-beater, securing a historic victory for the Notre Dame Academy Tritons (17-6). They advanced to the sectional final for the first time in program history after a fiercely contested defensive showdown against the Pulaski Red Raiders (11-10-1).
Notre Dame's offense came out hot with a 9-2 run to start the game, but after a strategic timeout by the Red Raiders, their defense began to assert itself. Senior forwards Joseph Mijal and Dixon Holewinski combined for 12 blocks in the first half alone.
Despite a spirited comeback attempt from Pulaski, the Tritons maintained their intensity, ending the first period ahead 30-25.
The second half was a nail-biter, with the score remaining tight until the final buzzer. Both teams showcased their defensive prowess, making it difficult for either side to score points consistently.
"We showed some good patience at times, which allowed us to have some success against their tough defense," said Tritons head coach Brian Bobinski. "We just need to do more of that—and allow us to wear down the other team's defense."
Adam Guyette demonstrated his scoring ability by putting up 21 points against a formidable interior defense.
"Every game, someone different steps up. Sometimes it's me, but mostly it's the team. We're very balanced, and that's how we win," said Guyette.
“We have a bunch of guys who can make plays for us, which can make us hard to defend because, on any given night, anyone can beat you,” said Bobinski, echoing the same sentiment.
With the Tritons trailing 50-52 and only 3.7 seconds left on the clock, they earned one final play opportunity. The ball was inbounded to point guard Leo Weber, who juggled it briefly before passing to Siudzinski in the corner. He launched the shot just in time, clinching a 53-52 victory.
A sea of teammates rushed to celebrate with Sudsy, while Pulaski fans pointed out that he might not have beaten the buzzer. After consulting with game officials, it was determined that the red backboard lights were not in sync with the game clock. Officials confirmed that Siudzinski's shot left his hands with 0.1 seconds remaining, securing the victory for Notre Dame.
"I just put it up, and it went in. I'm speechless; I don't know what to say," said Siudzinski. "You just gotta come to the next game and find out."
On Saturday, March 14, their sectional final game will take place at Manitowoc Lincoln High School against No. 3 seed Cedarburg (17-8) at 1 p.m.
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