CARIBOU, Maine — The Caribou boys and girls varsity basketball teams have entered the new year with a powerful start, as Caribou High School Athletic Director Evan Graves recently cited the teams’ continued growth in 2020.
The Viking boys, defending Class B state champs, continue to dominate on the court. Caribou is now 8-0 on the season and the top-ranked squad in its division. The Viking girls are now 3-5 on the season and remain in the playoff mix.
While both junior varsity teams were unable to compete at recent games due to weather-related rescheduling, the varsity teams faced off against Ellsworth on New Year’s Day.
Graves said the girls team showed some great growth during this game, which Ellsworth narrowly won in a 41-37 victory. Paige Espling scored the most points with 15 and Ashlyn Bouchard chipped in nine.
He said the boys team showed the strength of the program with great defense and offense throughout. The boys defeated Ellsworth, 74-42, with Parker Deprey scoring a total of 22 points, Sawyer Deprey adding 19 points, and Isaac Marker chipping in 14.
Both teams came away with significant victories during a Jan. 4 game against Washington Academy. The Caribou girls won, 60-35, with 11 players from the team scoring throughout the game. Espling led the way with 13.
The boys team defeated Washington Academy, 65-40, with Parker Deprey scoring 30 points and Sawyer Deprey adding 13.
Graves added that, in his short time as a Caribou Viking, he’s learned that there’s a great deal of pride associated with being a part of the team.
“There are high expectations to be a ‘Viking,’” he said. “It means something special to put on the maroon, gold and white uniform. Caribou athletes are recognized throughout the state for their work ethic. To be a Viking is a commitment.”