After winning back-to-back state championships, the Bunnell Bulldogs entered the CIAC Division II playoffs with heightened expectations and a target on their backs. Moving up a division meant tougher competition—but the Bulldogs proved they still belonged among the state’s best.
For the third consecutive year, Bunnell advanced to the state championship at Mohegan Sun, this time facing Windsor High School—another familiar opponent for Stratford. Earlier in the winter, Bunnell’s football team also faced Windsor in a state title game, falling 23–13. This basketball matchup marked the first time in CIAC history that the same two schools met in both football and basketball state finals in the same school year.
Despite a strong run, Bunnell was overpowered in the final. Windsor’s Ji Gary and Missoni Brown led the way in a 78–52 victory, each scoring well over 15 points. Windsor’s defensive pressure and transition offense proved decisive, forcing 20 turnovers. Junior Brody Biggs led the Bulldogs with 15 points, competing hard until the final buzzer.
Deep Playoff Push in Division II
Bunnell’s path to the championship showcased resilience and high-level execution against increasingly difficult opponents.
The Bulldogs opened the tournament with a dominant 67–36 win over Innovation Academy. In the second round, they faced a tougher challenge in Fairfield Prep. On March 9, #7 Bunnell secured a hard-fought 53–48 victory at home. Rody Ricketts, Ricky Miller, and Brandon Acosta led the effort, scoring at all three levels.
In the quarterfinals, Bunnell traveled to face #2 Trumbull in a hostile environment known for its energized student section. The Bulldogs matched that intensity both on the court and in the stands. In a physical, competitive game, Bunnell pulled away late for a 56–49 win. Ricketts led with 21 points, while Acosta added 18, including five three-pointers that energized the Bunnell crowd. Ricketts also reached a major milestone, scoring his 1,000th career point—an achievement made even more impressive in his junior year.
The momentum continued in the semifinals, where Bunnell defeated East Hartford 58–55 in front of a packed Waterbury crowd. Ricketts again led the charge, sending the Bulldogs back to the state championship stage.
SWC Tournament and Rivalry Drama
Before their state run, Bunnell made a strong push in the SWC tournament.
They opened with a 66–58 win over Weston in a closer-than-expected first-round matchup. That victory set up a highly anticipated rematch against cross-town rival Stratford High—just two weeks after Stratford had snapped Bunnell’s multi-year winning streak.
This time, Bunnell responded emphatically, dominating all four quarters in a 51–34 win. Emotions ran high late in the game, as head coach Jeremy Daniel energized the home crowd. The moment drew a reaction from Stratford’s student section and later became a minor news story. Athletic Director Wayne Thrall addressed the situation, stating, “Coach Daniel has acknowledged his uncharacteristic lapse in judgment, conveyed genuine remorse, and demonstrated a clear understanding of the total impact of his actions.”
Bunnell advanced to the SWC Championship to face Notre Dame Prep and standout Josh Charlot. The teams had split previous meetings, and the matchup carried added weight after Notre Dame defeated Bunnell in last year’s championship. In a packed Fairfield gym, Notre Dame once again prevailed, defeating Bunnell 65–44.
Regular Season Overview
The Bulldogs finished the regular season with a strong 16–4 record.
Their final stretch included a tough loss to Stratford High—their first defeat to their rival since 2022—followed by a decisive win over Kolbe to close out the season. While the loss was a setback, it helped sharpen the team heading into postseason play.
New Leadership, New Identity
This year’s team looked different from previous championship squads. With key departures—including Karell Brown, Jordan Pierce, J.T. Turnage, and others—the Bulldogs had to redefine their identity.
Junior Rody Ricketts emerged as the team’s leader, earning first-team All-SWC honors. Reflecting on his role, Ricketts said, “I knew I had to step up as a leader. I’ve been trying to hold this team accountable, on and off the court.”
He credited teammates for stepping up as well. Junior Brody Biggs became more vocal, while senior Brandon Acosta played a key role in unifying the team. Both earned All-Colonial Division honors. Senior Ricky Miller also made a significant impact, shedding the label of “just a football player” and earning SWC honorable mention recognition.
The roster also featured new additions, including junior transfer Lucas Bowman from Notre Dame Prep, adding depth and experience to the squad.
Team Chemistry and Growth
Early in the season, chemistry was a challenge. Players noted that miscommunication led to turnovers and occasional on-court frustration.
Over time, the team developed stronger cohesion through accountability and constructive criticism. That growth became evident during their playoff run, where composure and trust were key factors in close victories.
A Historic Year for Stratford Basketball
Despite the championship loss, this season marked a significant moment for the Stratford basketball community.
Stratford High also reached the state finals in Division III, making it the first time both Stratford schools competed for state titles in the same year. While Stratford fell to SMSA in a close game, the achievement underscored the strength of basketball in the town.
Looking Ahead
Although Bunnell’s bid for a third straight championship fell short, the program remains firmly positioned for continued success.
With key contributors returning—including Ricketts—and valuable postseason experience gained in a higher division, the Bulldogs are poised to contend once again next season.
