WORCESTER — Irvin Compass checked into Hopkins Academy’s state semifinal game against Maynard in the first quarter.
The Golden Hawks trailed 10-2 at the time and Hopkins coach Angelo Thomas made his first substitution to inject some energy into his lineup.
“We thought, athletically, in a game like this, he could help us, and he did,” Thomas said. “He played hard today. He played the way we thought he could play. He had some hustle plays, some extra rebounds, extra possessions for us. Athletically, he can compete for a team like this.”
Compass hit a 3-pointer shortly after stepping on the floor. He finished with six points in Hopkins’ 67-56 loss Wednesday. At times he switched onto Maynard point guard Cory Olivier and kept the Tigers’ leading scorer in front of him.
“He told me get out there and give it all I’ve got, it’s our last game, possibly,” Compass said. “I gave it all, what I had.”
Compass moved to Hadley to live with his uncle after legal issues in Mississippi. Charges were dropped under the condition that Compass move away from bad influences in and around New Orleans, do well in school and stay out of trouble.
He’s found a supportive environment with the Golden Hawks and focus on the basketball court.
“He’s a high-energy guy. In practice he’ll get on you, play good defense,” Hopkins junior Jon Morrison said. “He really makes our team a lot better.”
The transition wasn’t always smooth. Compass had to sit out the first five games due to MIAA rules. He gradually found his role with Hopkins.
“Having somebody come in for a year and add to what we’ve been doing for the past two-plus years, three years, it was an adjustment,” Thomas said. “It wasn’t all bad. It wasn’t all good. It was a day-to-day thing. Irvin’s a great kid. He’s got a bright future. I’m glad he was on our team.”
Compass plans to attend college and walk on to a basketball team.
“(Coming to Hopkins) was the best decision,” Compass said.