NORTH ANDOVER — It was a happy anniversary, as well as a great way to start the new year, for senior captain David Berroa and the Brooks basketball team yesterday afternoon.
Exactly one year after a brutal compound leg fracture put his career in doubt, Berroa had a game-high 20 points while adding five rebounds and three assists as the unbeaten Green and White (7-0) romped past St. Paul’s 68-34.
Facing the same team that resulted in the injury, Berroa had the anniversary on his mind before the game.
“I was remembering it, but just praying that I’m blessed to be back,” said the 6-foot Berroa. “I’m just so happy to be playing and that my leg feels good. I’m getting my confidence back.”
Berroa drilled five 3-pointers on the afternoon and had 12 points at halftime, during which Brooks was already comfortably ahead 39-19. He was 5 of 7 from the floor.
“David does so much for us ... to have him play so well today was great to see,” said Brooks coach John McVeigh. “Even their coach gave him a hug after the game.”
Complementing Berroa with 16 points was Ikenna Ndugba with 13 points while Dylan Quigley chipped in with 11 points and Cornell-bound Jayde Dawson had seven points and 10 rebounds. The Brooks defense forced 22 turnovers and held St. Paul’s (3-6) to just 11 field goals and 24 percent shooting.
“We hadn’t played since December 15th, so that always makes you a little nervous, but this a good group — as good as any I’ve had,” said McVeigh, who is still without talented sophomore Lavar Harewood,out all season with a knee injury.
Brooks will have more of a challenge Saturday at unbeaten Nobles.
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