Horky sets record–and exceeds it!

Tyler Horky was presented with an award by coach Mike Ahrens on January 23 after scoring his 1,047th career point in basketball, breaking the prior school record of 1,046 set in 1988 by Tom Mann. Horky went on to score a total of 28 points that evening in a win over the Addison Panthers.

It was an exciting evening last Thursday night at Manchester High School as it was fairly certain that senior captain Tyler Horky was about to break a 32-year old record in MHS basketball history.

During warm-ups, Horky appeared calm and collected, but knowing he was only seven points away from his goal as the first period began, the pressure was on. And the Addison Panthers knew it, too.

The Panthers kept a close eye on Horky as he scored two free throws after being fouled early in the quarter. A three-pointer at the midway point of the quarter put his objective within reach. Then, at the end of the first quarter, Tyler shot a successful 10-footer from the baseline, while being triple-teamed by the Panther guards. Even after the shot was made, it wasn’t a sure thing as the shot was a rim-rattler that bounced around before ultimately falling into the net.

The action stopped then, and a special announcement was made: “At this time, we want to pause and take a moment to acknowledge a milestone. With the last basket scored by Manchester’s senior captain, number “0”, Tyler Horky, has reached a total of 1,047 points in his high school career. He surpasses Tom Mann’s record of 1,046 career points, a record that has stood for more than 31 years! This is a special moment and an outstanding accomplishment for a student-athlete.”

From there on, it was a fairly routine game. Addison led 14-13 at the end of the first quarter, but the Dutchmen found their stride and played well as a team, maintaining a comfortable lead for most of the rest of the game, which ended in a 59-49 victory.

Ultimately, Horky scored 28 of the Dutch 59 total points that evening, with five field-goals, three three-pointers, and making 9/10 free throw attempts.

But the night wasn’t all about Tyler–it was actually all about teamwork. Braeden Caszatt followed up with 14 points, Joe Rogowski made six points, including two successful free throws, Aiden Kelly and Hayden Taylor each scored four points, and Jeff Carpenter two points. The Dutchmen also played a good defensive game against a strong Addison team.

At the end of the game, Horky had 1,068 career points. The record-breaking streak will continue for the rest of the season. How high can he take it? Only time will tell.

Horky sets up for a shot late in the first quarter.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.