Oakwood Conquers Carmel for the First Time in Program History

The Oakwood High School Boys Varsity Basketball team faced off against the Carmel High School Padres in a thrilling matchup on January 7, with the Hawks securing a hard-fought victory over the Padres for the first time since 2014. Entering the game as favorites, Oakwood faced a competitive challenge against a Carmel team with a strong pedigree as defending league and CCS Division IV champions, and the matchup delivered on its promise.

The contest was a back-and-forth battle from the start. Carmel led after the first quarter, but Oakwood’s defense tightened in the second, holding the Padres to just one three-pointer. Junior Vidal Nzoyem took charge, scoring 10 of his season-high 26 points in the second quarter alone, giving the Hawks a slight edge at halftime.

In the third quarter, foul trouble forced Nzoyem to the bench, but senior Anthony Felix stepped up in his absence. Felix scored 8 of his 16 points in the quarter, helping Oakwood maintain their composure as Carmel came out strong, trimming the Hawks’ lead to four heading into the fourth.

The final quarter saw Carmel briefly reclaim the lead around the three-minute mark, but Oakwood’s frontcourt duo of Nzoyem and Felix proved too much to handle. Their combined 42 points powered the Hawks to victory in a game that tested their resolve and showcased their depth.

Coach Joseph Lampkin described the win as “important” and credited the team’s success to their unselfish play and versatility. “We have selfless leaders,” Lampkin said. “Any player on this team can close out a game.”

Oakwood will host Carmel for the rematch on January 27, a game the Hawks are eager to win again!