HIGHLIGHTED ARTICLES

A Year Of Surprises:

Boston Celtics ‘25-26 Recap

Written By Sam Murray ‘28

It’s been a few weeks since the Celtics lost in the first round of playoffs to the 76ers. I’ve sat with it, marinated in it, and thought about it ever since then. I have reached the final stage of grief, acceptance. I have accepted that this is one of our best seasons of the last 10 years. To put this in perspective, let’s go back to the way we ended last year. We lose in the second round to a very beatable Knicks team who hadn’t fully found their footing. We had an old roster, many expiring deals, and worst of all, Jayson Tatum, our golden goose, had torn his achilles tendon. Tearing your achilles is one of the worse injuries in sports, on Tommy John level. You typically miss a full season, and in many cases, there’s a good chance you never return to the player you once were. Over the offseason, there were a lot of huge decisions to make, and we seemingly got the short end of the stick on all of them. Trading Jrue Holiday for Anfernee Simons, a young, athletic guard who just hadn’t seemed to bloom, trading Kristaps Porzingis for Georges Niang, whom we thankfully cut almost immediately (Good Riddance). The saddest move to me though was not signing Al Horford back. I know it had to happen, but he was with us the whole ride, and it felt like George having to shoot Lennie in Of Mice and Men. Going into the season full of doubts, people were expecting us to have a lottery pick. The fans were upset, the media shut us down, and we felt hopeless. But there was one man who rewrote the story of the season, and his name is Jaylen Brown.

In the past 5 years, I fully believe that Jaylen Brown has been the most disrespected star in the league. He’s always overlooked, apart of mock trades that diminish his value, and is always talked about being, “Tatums sidekick”. He has taken in all of this slander, and used it as his fuel to shut down the league. Jaylen Brown was the biggest factor in this shocker of a season. He was dominant on both sides of the ball, averaging 30 while shutting down your star player, 1-5. He was easily the most impressive player of this season, but thats not to overshadow the work that everybody else put in. Derrick White and Payton Pritchard absolutely filled in there much needed role of second and third option scoring wise, to take the weight off of JB. Those two have perfectly adapted to the Mazzula style of hoops, and it shows. On top of that, Neemias Queta is the most surprising part of this season, consistently showing a talent that hadn’t been seem from him really ever. He looked very dominant, and I feel like with a veteran there to unlock his full potential, he could look like a smaller Ralph Sampson. With our bench unit, much like our starters, they have learned and almost mastered Mazzula Ball, which means whatever you’re doing, do 100% of it. Players like Hauser and Garza are playing in ways they’ve never played before, and younger guys like Baylor Schierman and Hugo Gonzales (my favorite player) have perfectly fit into the necessary role of “do whatever it takes to help us win”, whether that’s diving for a loose ball, being a pest in a full court trap, or making the extra pass, it’s winning basketball. We were shocking everyone who watches/knows about basketball, and the crazy thing is, is that we have been consistent winners over the years. This was gonna be the leagues break from Boston domination, but it hurt them even more. 

And then on March 6, 2026, Jayson Tatum defied the odds by coming back 10 months after tearing his achilles. It was something never seen before, and it was legendary. We end the season as the 2nd seed, going up against the 76ers. They’ve made some noise against us in the past, but never made it over the hump. I don’t understand what happened during this series, but we were just off. Shots weren’t falling, the defense wasn’t working, and that big baby Joel Embiid was able to have his way against us. We ended up losing in 7 games, which caused a lot of drastic reactions on the internet. “Fire Joe Mazzula”, “Trade Jaylen Brown, he can’t work in the system”. My take on all of this is that nothing big needs to happen. We could use a good veteran big maybe, but this team just had a historic season and people want to blow it up. Although this season didn’t have a storybook ending, it was one hell of a story.

4 Downs with Angelo Spencer 🏈

1st Down:  NFL Team that did not make the 2025 playoffs but will make the playoffs this year: Kansas City Chiefs:  they had a good draft and Mahomes will be back.

2nd Down:  NFL Team that made the 2025 playoffs but will miss the playoffs this year:  LA Chargers: This year they have a harder schedule than last year and I don't think Hebert is a good quarterback.

3rd Down:  Young QB that will improve in 2026 : Bryce Young is a young QB that I believe will take a big jump forward this year.  He is undersized but had a good 2nd half of the year in 2025 so I think he has a good chance to take the next step.

4th Down:  Young QB that will regress in 2026: CJ Stroud  He regressed a little last year and will continue to regress next year.   He had a terrible playoff in the most important game of his life vs the Patriots.  That's going to linger until next year.

2 Point Conversion:  Surprise team that could make the Super Bowl: Detroit Lions (NFC)  Cincinnati Bengals (AFC)

Contributor: Angelo Spencer (2028)

The Most Overrated and Underrated Player on Every NBA Team Part 4

 By LeeAnn Narkawicz (2026)

Memphis Grizzlies

• Most Overrated: Ja Morant Morant is undeniably one of the most explosive, highlight-generating guards in basketball, capable of taking over games single-handedly. However, his full-season impact occasionally struggles to match the extreme hype. Due to various absences and occasional fluctuations in game-to-game production, his steady, long-term impact can be more uneven than expected for a consensus top-tier superstar.

• Most Underrated: Santi Aldama Aldama is the epitome of quiet efficiency off the bench. He provides steady rebounding, smart floor-spacing, and reliable scoring without needing the offense to revolve around him. While nothing about his game screams for attention, his ability to stabilize the second unit is vital to the team's overall depth.

Minnesota Timberwolves

• Most Overrated: Rudy Gobert Gobert’s paint defense and rim protection are undeniably elite, completely altering how opponents attack the basket. The critique, however, lies on the offensive end, where his limited skillset allows disciplined teams to scheme around him in high-stakes playoff matchups. This creates a disconnect between his massive regular-season praise and his situational utility when matchups dictate a smaller, faster game.

• Most Underrated: Jaden McDaniels McDaniels is quietly establishing himself as one of the premier perimeter defenders in the NBA, capable of locking down multiple positions entirely on an island. While his offensive game is still a work in progress, his steady improvement as a spot-up shooter and cutter makes him a foundational piece whose structural value is rarely fully appreciated in casual conversations.

New Orleans Pelicans

• Most Overrated: Zion Williamson When healthy, Williamson is an absolute force of nature, physically overwhelming defenses and collapsing paint coverage at will. The glaring issue, however, remains his durability. Because injuries have consistently disrupted his availability, the reality of his season-long impact rarely aligns with the expectations placed on him as a franchise-altering centerpiece.

• Most Underrated: Trey Murphy III Murphy III is an essential component of modern offensive spacing. He is a lethal, high-volume shooter who moves intelligently without the ball and slots seamlessly into virtually any lineup. He doesn't require heavy touches to alter the geometry of the court, making his quiet role incredibly valuable to the team's offensive efficiency.

Oklahoma City Thunder

• Most Overrated: Russell Westbrook (Historical Context) Looking back at the Thunder's history, Westbrook remains a polarizing figure. His historic statistical output, relentless energy, and sheer intensity are undisputed, but his high-usage style has always sparked debate. The disconnect lies between his monumental individual triple-double seasons and the lingering questions surrounding his efficiency and how his style translated to deep postseason success.

• Most Underrated: Isaiah Hartenstein Hartenstein is a master of doing the heavy lifting that doesn't show up in traditional scoring columns. He provides elite screen-setting, interior defense, and superb short-roll decision-making. The team's overall structure and stability noticeably elevate whenever he is on the floor, making him a premium glue guy.

Phoenix Suns

• Most Overrated: Bradley Beal Beal still possesses elite scoring talent and can heat up in a hurry, but injuries and a lack of role consistency have hampered his time in Phoenix. Given his massive contract, the expectations are sky-high, but defensive limitations and missing time mean his all-around impact doesn't always justify the star-level reputation.

• Most Underrated: Royce O'Neale O'Neale is a smart, low-usage wing who specializes in making the right basketball play. He spaces the floor efficiently, defends multiple positions, and acts as a connector within the offense. He doesn't force shots or hunt statistics, but his presence ensures the lineup runs smoothly and stays balanced.

Portland Trail Blazers

• Most Overrated: Deandre Ayton Ayton possesses undeniable physical tools and talent, occasionally looking like a dominant, paint-controlling center. However, his performance is often marred by inconsistency and questions regarding sustained motor. It frequently feels like public perception is holding onto his theoretical ceiling rather than the fluctuating production he delivers on a nightly basis.

• Most Underrated: Toumani Camara Camara deserves significantly more attention for the competitive edge he brings to the roster. He is a tenacious defender who willingly takes on the toughest perimeter assignments while bringing high-level hustle every night. He thrives in the shadows of the spotlight, making him the exact type of structural piece a rebuilding team needs.

Sacramento Kings

• Most Overrated: Domantas Sabonis Sabonis posts spectacular regular-season numbers as an elite rebounding and playmaking hub. However, the narrative around him shifts under postseason scrutiny. Elite teams have historically exposed his defensive limitations and limited his scoring space in tight, half-court playoff environments, raising questions about whether his regular-season production inflates his status as a true playoff centerpiece.

• Most Underrated: Keegan Murray While the star guards get the headlines, Murray’s steady evolution into a legitimate two-way weapon is vital. He offers excellent floor-spacing, highly efficient scoring, and has quietly grown into one of the team's most reliable defenders. Because of his stoic demeanor, his crucial night-to-night impact is frequently overlooked.

San Antonio Spurs

• Most Overrated: Victor Wembanyama (Hype vs. Current Résumé) This critique is strictly about the unprecedented media expectations versus his current career stage. Wembanyama's generational talent, defensive instincts, and physical tools are entirely real. However, the public discourse treats him as a finished, championship-driving superstar right now, ignoring the natural developmental curve and adjustments required as he learns to anchor a team over a full 82-game schedule.

• Most Underrated: Harrison Barnes As a young roster develops, Barnes provides the essential veteran ballast. He rarely makes the highlight reels, but he delivers immense value through efficient scoring, mistake-free decision-making, and a calming locker room presence. He is the quiet professional responsible for keeping chaotic stretches organized.

Utah Jazz

• Most Overrated: Lauri Markkanen Markkanen is an incredibly versatile, smooth-scoring big man whose numbers look exceptional on paper. However, questions remain regarding how effectively his individual production scales to winning at the highest level. He can occasionally fade into the background during crucial stretches, leaving fans wanting more late-game control from a player designated as a franchise cornerstone.

• Most Underrated: Keyonte George Though early in his professional career, George is showcasing the foundational traits of a high-level playmaker. He isn't just looking for his own shot; he actively reads defensive coverages, commands the offense, and plays with a maturity beyond his years. As his efficiency catches up to his confidence, his status as an underrated prospect won't last long.

Important May Dates for Class of 2026 

May is the final month of school for the Class of 2026.  Here are a few important dates to note in your callendar.  Make sure you check your email for end of year and graduation updates from your advisors.  

Saturday, May 9 – Junior/Senior Prom Pleasant Valley Country Club from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM Arrive by 6:30 PM and plan to stay until at least 9:30 PM.

Friday, May 22 – Last Day of Classes & Woolie Represent Day Llast full day of high school for the Class of 2026. Wear a shirt representing your next step: college, the military, or the workforce.

Tuesday, May 26 – Music Awards Night Celebrate our musicians in the High School Auditorium starting at 6:30 PM.

Friday, May 29 – Senior Class Trip Six Flags New England. Class dues must be paid to attend.

Varisty Softball Holds off 7th Inning Rally

MHS varsity softball team earned another win yesterday with an 11-8 victory over the visiting Oxford Pirates in a high-scoring matchup. With this win, the Woolies improved to 9-4 record overall (6-1 CMAC B).

Millbury’s bats were hot from the opening pitch scoring 6 runs in the first two innings and racking up an impressive 17 hits in the game. Brielle Brothers led the charge on both sides of the plate, striking out 12 batters while going 3-for-4 with two RBIs and two runs scored. She was backed up by her battery mate, Valerie Allain, who also had a big day at the plate with three hits and four RBIs. Kendal Hargrave went 3-for-4 with an RBI and three runs scored.

Although Millbury jumped out to an early 6-0 lead by the end of the second inning, Oxford refused to go down without a fight. Going into the 7th inning MHS was up 11-4.  Oxford’s offense scored four runs in the top of the sixth inning to put the pressure on but Millbury was able to hold on and close out the inning to secure the win.

My TOP 10 Favorite Fast Food Places

 By LeeAnn Narkawicz (2026)

Fast food places are everywhere, but in my opinion, not all of them are worth our time or money. With so many options competing for attention, it’s easy to fall into the same routine without realizing there are better choices out there. From quick snacks to full meals, some places consistently stand out for their taste, value, and overall experience. In this article, I’m breaking down my top 10 fast food spots—the ones that actually live up to the hype and that actually taste good.

10. Sonic Drive-In Sonic is last on my list, not because it’s horrible, but because it doesn’t really compete with the other places. The main reason people go to Sonic is for the drinks. They have a huge variety, and you can mix flavors and get slushes that you really can’t get anywhere else. That part actually makes it fun, especially if you’re going with friends and trying different combinations. The drive-in style is also different, which makes it feel more like an experience instead of just grabbing food. But when it comes to the actual food, it’s kind of average. The burgers, fries, and other items don’t really stand out or taste better than other fast food places. It feels like they focus more on having a big menu instead of making a few things really good. Because of that, the quality can be inconsistent depending on what you order. Compared to every other place on this list, it just doesn’t have the same level of flavor. I wouldn’t go there if I actually wanted a really good meal; I’d mostly go there for drinks or something small. That’s why it ends up at number ten.

9. Shake Shack Shake Shack is good, but it’s honestly kind of overrated. The burgers do taste fresh, and you can tell the ingredients are better than a lot of other fast food places. It feels more like a “higher quality” version of fast food, which is probably why people like it so much. The shakes are also really good and probably one of the best things on the menu. But the biggest problem is the price. It’s a lot more expensive than places like Wendy’s, and it doesn’t always feel worth it. The portions are also smaller, which makes it worse because you’re paying more for less food. Compared to other places on this list, it just doesn’t give the same value. It also doesn’t have a huge menu, so it can get kind of repetitive. It’s still a good place, just not one I would go to all the time. That’s why it’s near the bottom of my list.

8. Chipotle Chipotle is number eight because it’s different from most fast food places. Instead of burgers and fries, you can build your own bowl or burrito, which is a big reason why people like it. Being able to pick exactly what you want makes it feel more personal. The ingredients also feel fresher compared to a lot of other fast food. It can also be really filling, especially if you get a bowl with a lot of toppings. Another reason people like it is because it can feel healthier depending on what you choose. But it’s not perfect. Sometimes the portions are really good, and other times they feel way smaller than they should be. That inconsistency is a big problem. The price has also gone up, so when you get a small portion, it feels even worse. Compared to higher-ranked places, it’s just not as reliable. It’s still a good option when you want something different, but it doesn’t stand out enough to be higher on the list.

7. Dairy Queen Dairy Queen is mostly on this list because of the desserts. The Blizzards are one of the best fast food desserts, and that’s the main reason people go there. There are so many different flavors, and they’re usually always good no matter what you get. It’s the kind of place you think of when you want something sweet instead of an actual meal. The food is okay, but it’s not the reason it stands out. Compared to other places, it doesn’t really compete when it comes to meals. But it’s still better than Sonic because it actually has something it does really well. It’s also a place people go to more in the summer. Even though it’s not amazing overall, it still deserves a spot. That’s why it’s number seven.

6. Panda Express Panda Express is a good option when you want something different from typical fast food. It stands out because it’s not just burgers and fries. The orange chicken is probably the most popular item, and it’s really good. The portions are also usually pretty big, which makes it feel like you’re getting your money’s worth. It’s also quick, which makes it convenient. But sometimes the food can be kind of greasy or heavy. It’s also not always consistent depending on the location. Compared to higher-ranked places, it doesn’t feel as fresh. It’s still a solid choice, just not one of the best. That’s why it’s number six.

5. PDQ PDQ is honestly underrated. Not a lot of people talk about it, but it’s actually really good. The chicken tastes fresh and not overly processed, which makes a big difference. It feels like they actually care about the quality of the food. That’s why it ranks higher than some more popular places. But it’s not as well known or easy to find as other fast food chains. Compared to Chick-fil-A, it doesn’t have the same level of popularity or consistency. Still, the food itself is really solid. It’s better than a lot of places below it. That’s why it’s number five.

4. Wendy's Wendy’s is one of the best burger places in fast food. The food tastes more real compared to some other chains, which makes it stand out. The square burgers also make it different from other places. The fries are good, and the Frosty is one of the best desserts. It’s also not too expensive, which makes it a good value. Compared to places below it, it’s more reliable and consistent. But at the end of the day, it’s still just a burger place. It’s not as exciting as the top three. Still, it’s really solid overall. That’s why it’s number four.

3. Chick-fil-A Chick-fil-A is really good and one of the most consistent fast food places. The food is almost always good no matter where you go. The employees are also really nice, which makes the experience better. The chicken sandwiches and waffle fries are some of the best fast food items. It’s a place you can always count on. But I ranked it below Raising Cane’s because I go there less. Even though it has more options, I like Cane’s chicken better. Still, it’s easily one of the best places overall. That’s why it’s number three.

2. Raising Cane's Raising Cane’s is one of my favorites because it focuses on doing one thing really well. The chicken tenders are so good and taste better than Chick-fil-A in my opinion. The Cane’s sauce is also a huge reason why it’s so popular. Even though the menu is small, that actually helps keep the quality high. Everything is simple but really good. I also go there more often than Chick-fil-A. Compared to other places, the flavor stands out more. That’s why it’s number two.

1. Subway Subway is my number one because it’s the place I enjoy the most overall. I feel like I could eat it all the time and not get tired of it. One of the biggest reasons is that you can customize everything. You can make your sandwich exactly how you want it, which makes it better than most fast food places. It also feels healthier compared to burgers and fried food. I also like that they have pizzas, which gives more options. The environment is something I enjoy too, which makes the experience better. Compared to everything else on this list, it’s the place I would choose the most. That’s why it’s number one.

The Most Overrated and Underrated Player on Every NBA Team Part 3

 By LeeAnn Narkawicz (2026)

Miami Heat

• Most Overrated: Andrew Wiggins Wiggins is often evaluated as a consistent, high-level two-way wing, but his production tends to fluctuate. His scoring impact can vanish when he isn't in an offensive rhythm, and while he is a solid defender, he isn't always as disruptive as his reputation suggests. His contract level further inflates expectations that he doesn't consistently meet.

• Most Underrated: Jaime Jaquez Jr. Jaquez Jr. is frequently overlooked because he lacks a "flashy" highlight reel. However, his value lies in his efficiency, toughness, and high basketball IQ. He contributes across multiple categories without requiring high usage, making his actual role value much higher than his public recognition.

Orlando Magic

• Most Overrated: Desmond Bane Bane is often treated as a premier two-way star, but his game-to-game impact can be inconsistent. While he is an elite shooter, his offensive contribution drops sharply when his shots aren't falling. Defensively, he is serviceable but rarely a game-changer against elite perimeter scorers, leading to a gap between his reputation and his all-around influence.

• Most Underrated: Jonathan Isaac When healthy, Isaac is one of the most disruptive defensive forces in the league. His length and timing allow him to ruin offensive sets and protect the rim at an elite level. Despite his limited availability, his defensive impact per minute is staggering, making him far more valuable than the average fan realizes.

Washington Wizards

• Most Overrated: Trae Young Young is viewed as a superstar due to his elite scoring and playmaking, but his defensive impact is consistently among the weakest for high-usage guards. His value is highly dependent on shooting efficiency and drawing fouls; when those aren't working, his two-way utility drops significantly. The "franchise-carrying" label often outweighs his actual impact on winning.

• Most Underrated: Anthony Davis While Davis is recognized as a dominant force, he remains underrated when factoring in his pure peak impact. He can single-handedly change a game defensively as a rim protector and switch defender. While durability remains a concern that affects his value perception, a healthy Davis provides a level of two-way play that few in history can match.

Dallas Mavericks

• Most Overrated: Dereck Lively II Lively is a promising young center, but the current discourse often treats him as a finished product defensively. While he brings great energy and rim protection, he still deals with the typical inconsistencies of a developing player. The hype surrounding his current game seems to be slightly ahead of his actual on-court development.

• Most Underrated: Naji Marshall Marshall is a versatile "gap-filler" who consistently brings effort and smart play to the floor. He excels at the small, non-statistical things that help a team function. Because he isn't a flashy player, he rarely makes headlines, but his impact is undeniable to those who watch closely.

Denver Nuggets

• Most Overrated: Jamal Murray Murray has proven he can take over games—especially in the playoffs—and those peaks have defined his reputation. However, that elite production doesn't always stay consistent across a full 82-game season. His tendency to have stretches where his impact dips makes his overall standing a bit more uneven than his "superstar" status suggests.

• Most Underrated: Aaron Gordon Gordon is the ultimate role player for a championship system. He doesn't need high scoring totals or headlines to be effective; instead, he focuses on physical defense, cutting, and hustle. His ability to stay locked into his role without needing the spotlight is a primary reason the Nuggets' system functions so effectively.

Golden State Warriors

• Most Overrated: Draymond Green Green’s leadership and defensive IQ are legendary, but his overall production doesn't always align with the way he is discussed compared to other impact players. Given his role and contract, there are nights where his impact feels much more limited than his reputation would suggest, especially as the league continues to evolve.

• Most Underrated: Kevon Looney Looney is the unsung hero of the Warriors' system. He is never the focus of the offense, but he masters the "dirty work": rebounding, setting screens, and perfect positioning. His reliability and willingness to do the things that don't show up in highlight clips make him an essential part of the team's success.

LA Clippers

• Most Overrated: Kawhi Leonard The talent is unquestionable—when Kawhi is on the floor, he is a top-tier two-way player. However, the best ability is availability. Because he has missed significant time over the years, the perception of him as a "constant" elite presence doesn't always match the reality of his total impact over the course of a full season.

• Most Underrated: Ivica Zubac Zubac is a consistent double-double threat who anchors the paint without needing many touches. He does the routine but vital work—protecting the rim and keeping possessions alive—that rarely makes it into a highlight reel. He is the quiet engine that keeps the Clippers' interior functioning.

Los Angeles Lakers

• Most Overrated: Austin Reaves Reaves is a very solid role player who fits well as a secondary creator. However, the massive hype surrounding him often suggests he is closer to a top-level star than he actually is. While reliable and skilled, he remains firmly in the "strong role player" category rather than being the superstar the media occasionally portrays him to be.

• Most Underrated: Jaxson Hayes Hayes doesn't put up massive stat lines, but he provides a very specific and necessary spark. His athleticism, ability to run the floor, and vertical gravity at the rim give the Lakers a dimension of size and energy that helps bridge the gap during crucial minutes.

Is it Time to Start Your Record Collection? 

If you’ve walked through a store lately, you’ve likely seen big, colorful squares making a major comeback. Vinyl records are officially trendy again, and they aren’t just for old people. While having millions of songs on your phone is convenient, many students are finding that the physical experience of owning a record is actually worth the effort.

Unlike streaming, vinyl forces you to slow down and truly appreciate an album from start to finish. From the large-scale artwork to the unique sound, it turns listening into an activity rather than just background noise. Whether you want to support your favorite artist or just need a break from your screen, vinyl offers listeners a special way to connect with music.

Are you ready to join the revival, or are you sticking with your earbuds? Check out the current top-selling records below to see where to start your collection.

Top 10 Best-Selling Vinyl Albums (Modern Era)

According to Luminate and Billboard data

1. Taylor Swift – Midnights

2. Harry Styles – Harry’s House

3. Fleetwood Mac – Rumours

4. Pink Floyd – The Dark Side of the Moon

5. Olivia Rodrigo – Sour

6. Michael Jackson – Thriller

7. The Beatles – Abbey Road

8. Kendrick Lamar – Good Kid, M.A.A.D City

9. Lana Del Rey – Born to Die

10. Tyler, The Creator – Call Me If You Get Lost

Quick Facts: Why are these on top?

• Aesthetic: Many of these albums (like Lana or Taylor) come in multiple colors (blue, pink, clear), which makes fans want to collect them all.

• The "Vibe": Classic albums like Rumours or Abbey Road are seen as "essentials"; the kind of music that sounds better with a bit of needle crackle.

• Ownership: In a world of streaming where you don't "own" your music, these physical records give fans a way to support their favorite artists directly.