The boys basketball team fell to the rival B-CC Barons 61-54 Tuesday afternoon, moving to 10-8 on the season.

The game was tight early on, as both teams played fairly even in the first quarter. The Barons, however, dominated the second quarter with outstanding mid-range shooting and outscored the Vikes 22-9.

After trailing by 12 at halftime, the Vikes’ offense picked up in the second half, including a 22-point fourth quarter.

Although the Vikings didn’t have trouble scoring in the second half, they couldn’t get key stops towards the end of the game.

“We’ve got to be consistent on the defensive end going into the playoffs,” guard Justin Kay said. “All of the successful Whitman teams that have gone far into the tournament excelled on defense, and that has to be us too.”

After a quiet start to the game, guard Shaq Diboti-Lobe scored 17 fourth quarter points, giving him 20 on the night.

Kay had eight points and six assists, and center Anton Casey finished with eight points and 10 rebounds.

The game was heated, as fans from both teams cheered back and forth throughout.

“The atmosphere at the game was really intense, but also exciting,” head of Whitmaniacs Mia Carmel said. “Leaving B-CC was actually scary because their students were yelling insults and threats.”

Both student sections were ushered out through different exits and there were no fights after the game.

With just four games remaining in the regular season, the Vikes are looking to fine tune their play heading into playoffs, Kay said.

“We want to build momentum heading into the playoffs,” he said. “Hopefully these last few games will give us some confidence.”

The Vikes will square off with divisional leader Richard Montgomery (17-1) this Friday at home.