The 2025-26 Norwich Purple Tornado boys’ basketball team, coached by Joe Alger. Congratulations, Norwich on a nice 70-51 win over Walton/Downsville to start the season. (Photo from Norwich boys basketball)

NORWICH—Following a big Norwich girls' basketball win, Jack Jones Gymnasium was rocking again for the Norwich boys' basketball home opener. The Norwich Purple Tornado took on non-league opponent Walton/Downsville on Thursday night. Both teams were off to a bit of a sloppy start, but Norwich kicked it into high gear to finish on top 70-51.

The first half was pretty balanced with both teams even at 21 at the break.

Norwich came out on front in close range at one time 31-29 in the third quarter before widening the gap a little bit at 43-34 lead at the end of the quarter.

Coach Joe Alger was proud of his boys for finishing strong, powering up with 27 points in the final fourth quarter to secure the victory.

The Purple Tornado defense could not contain Walton/Downsville's Tyler Reed, who scored an all-around high of 21 points.

However, Norwich had more team collaboration. Kassen Stubb was the leading man in charge for the Purple Tornado with 17 points.

Aiden Youngs followed with 10 points as Carmine Pastore and Cooper Chrystie both finished with nine points. Carter Chrystie and Brevin Bennett both added seven points each in the win.

Norwich (1-0) heads to Sus Valley on Tuesday at 7:15 p.m.