WARREN. Mich. - After two weeks off due to COVID-19 health and safety protocols, the De La Salle varsity basketball program took the floor at the Bill Fox Gymnasium Thursday night against Eastpointe. 

The Pilots played with a high level of energy from start to finish and used it to defeat the Shamrocks, 75-53. With the win, the Purple and Gold improved to 6-0 on the season. 

The Pilots jumped out to a 22-12 lead after one quarter, and never looked back. Junior guard Caleb Reese came out early attacking the basket and scored 18 of his 19 total points in the first half.

It "felt great" for Reese and his teammates to be back on the floor, after 12 days without game action. 

“It felt great getting back and playing as a team," Reese said. "We had a strong first half. Everyone was unselfish and was looking for extra passes. And that’s why I think we jumped out to that lead at the half."

Additionally, senior guard Linden Holder, who finished with 14 points and five steals in the contest, noted that he believes the Pilots are playing as a cohesive unit. Sophomore Triston Nichols added 10 points and seven rebounds. 

“I think our team is really coming together, despite the adversity we faced having to sit out," Holder said. "We came out ready to play and brought energy from our entire program. And, collectively speaking, it felt amazing to be back." 

He added, "Something that worked well tonight was our defensive intensity and effort. It wasn’t just tonight. This is something we have had all season and will continue to improve on. We are excited for the opportunities that are ahead of us." 

The next "opportunity" that lies ahead for Holder & Co. is a matchup with Catholic League Central division rival Orchard Lake St. Mary's Saturday on the campus of De La Salle. Game time is set for 4 p.m. EST