Despite the fact they're in different conferences, the annual crosstown boys basketball showdown between Dominican and Whitefish Bay still can pack the house.
Before a full Whitefish Bay Fieldhouse on Wednesday, the Blue Dukes used an inspired run in the second quarter to knock off Dominican, 63-48.
"Our seniors stepped up for us tonight," said Whitefish Bay head coach Kevin Lazovik. "They did a phenomenal job. They were composed and they didn't get rattled. Dominican made some runs but the team stayed composed and focused and made good decisions."
After taking a one-point lead after the first quarter, Dominican didn't have an answer for Bay's pressure defense. Led by senior forward Ron Patten, the Dukes went on a 17-4 run to open the second quarter and led by 10 at halftime.
It wasn't Bay's traditional way of going about its business, though. With senior big men Patten and Jamie Schneck in foul trouble early in the game, Lazovik was forced to play a three-guard lineup.
The results were surprisingly successful.
"(Keelin Johnson and Paul Anton) really did a great job handling the press, handling the pressure and really stepped up in a big way for us tonight," Lazovik said.
Johnson finished with a team-high 16 points, while Patten, Schneck and Cal Ehrke also scored in double figures.
The Knights were led by their dynamic guards Duane Wilson and Jamall Taylor, who combined to score 41 of the team's 48 points.
"Defensively we weren't very good tonight," said Dominican head coach Paul Wollersheim. "(The Dukes) kept their poise against our pressure and handled the ball well and they were just tougher."

The win improved the Dukes to 3-5. They return to action Jan. 4 at home against Grafton.
Dominican dropped to 5-2 overall and will take on Regis (Eau Claire) and Pius XI in the WBY Shootout Monday and Wednesday, respectively, at Concordia University in Mequon.
