Austin Butler and Reed Fenton used to be high school teammates on high-scoring boys basketball teams at Latrobe.
But Wednesday night, they will meet for the first time as college opponents.
Butler, a junior guard at Holy Cross, will join the Crusaders (2-17, 1-5) in hosting Fenton and Lehigh (5-13, 2-4) at the Hart Center at the Luth Athletic Complex in Worcester, Mass.
“Two former teammates going at it will be fun, for sure,” Butler said. “There will definitely be some bragging rights on the line to take back home with us this summer.”
Fenton thinks the showdown with his old friend will be loose.
“It will definitely be a different feeling,” he said. “I’m anticipating it to feel similar to a pick-up game because that’s the only time I’ve ever played against him. But I’m definitely excited to see him. Back when we played together, I don’t think either of us thought we’d be able to play against each other at the next level, so that’s definitely a cool feeling.”
Butler moved to point guard this season and has started every game (33.3 minutes). He is averaging 11.3 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2.4 assists. The position switch has been a big change.
“I’ve embraced it, for sure, but I just go out there each day and do what I’m asked,” Butler said, “and do whatever will help the team, no matter what position I’m playing.”
Fenton, a freshman guard, has started all 18 games for Lehigh and is scoring 6.6 points a game.
