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Carlos O'Donnell had a breakout game, scoring 26 points and picking off six rebounds, and teammate Allen Williamson added 25 points and 14 boards to lead Pingree School to an 83-79 opening round victory over Hamden (Conn.) Hall yesterday in the Class D NEPSAC basketball tournament at Seekonk.

Eastern Independent League rivals Landmark and Pingree were matched evenly last night, and it was Highlander standout Allen Williamson that made the difference. For once, though, it was entirely his offense that dented the opponent.

Last year's record: 22-7

Coach: Steve Gibbs (5th season)

Key returnees: Allen Williamson, 6-4, Jr., F; Carlos O'Donnell, 5-9, Sr., G; Will Taft, 6-3, Sr., C; Derek Pratt, 6-2, Jr., F; J.J. Cronin, 6-2, Sr., F; Jesse Sullivan, 6-0, Sr., G; Cody Presbury, 5-11, So., G.; Pat George, 6-0, Jr., G.

Steve Gibbs likes the challenge of matching wits with anybody in the Eastern Independent League, yet when it comes to judging one of his own players, Allen Williamson, the Pingree School basketball coach admits he had a brain cramp. Not just a small brain cramp, either.

Pingree's boys basketball team ran away with a 61-29 blowout victory last night over Landmark Academy, which improved the Highlanders record to 4-1 on the young season.

Allen Williamson led the offensive charge netting 12 points and grabbing five rebounds for Pingree. Cody Preseury recorded eight points, six assists and three steals while Connor Cash added eight points and seven boards.

Pingree took control early and held on for an emphatic 62-55 win over Hebron Academy last night. The Highlanders grabbed a commanding 34-18 lead in the early going and moved to 3-1 on the year.

Allen Williamson poured in 21 points and grabbed nine rebounds to lead the way. More importantly, the Highlanders kept Hebron in check by controlling the pace.

Brooks fell into an early hole but managed to erase a 14-point first half deficit and post a 60-50 win over Pingree. Sophomore guard Jordan Johnson (16 points), Haverhill's Alex Skinner (20 points) and senior guard Jordan Mickens (16 points) each recorded career highs.