Although exemplifying solid defense throughout the game, the boys’ varsity basketball team fell to Cocoa Beach Minutemen 42-34.

The leading scorers for the Wildcats were senior forward Justin Laneuville who had 7 points and four rebounds and senior forward Tommy Panouses, who also scored 7 points and recorded 3 rebounds.

After starting off strong and ending the first quarter with a one point lead, it was the lack of offensive production that lead to the loss for West Shore.

“We did a great job playing defense,” Coach Tony Riopelle said.  “The boys really followed the game plan.  Our shots just didn’t fall.”

Senior guard Scott Adams, who leads the team in assists (4.5) and is second in team scoring (11.2) is injured and has not played since the winter tournament.  Not having Adams leaves a serious void in West Shore’s offensive game plan, missing out on their primary play maker and a versatile scorer.

On Monday, the Wildcats will host Space Coast as they look to write the ship after Friday’s loss.  The Cats drop to 10-7 on the season and look to improve to 11-7 against the Vipers. Between regular season and tournaments, the Cats are a collective 2-0 against the Vipers.