A foot injury has limited Tautvydas Kupstas' recent practice time. That inactivity has hurt the player's effectiveness, according to Thomas Baudinet,

Tautvydas Kupstas delivers a dunk during Perkio- men's 22-point victory over Lawrenceville School on last Friday.  Kupstas finished with 16 points.

Perkiomen School's boys basketball coach.

            Last week, one day after returning to practice, Kupstas rediscovered his shooting touch in a 78-56 victory over Lawrenceville School. The 6-foot-3 guard finished with 16 points, including two 3-point shots.  "It was good to see Kup hit some shots," Baudinet said.

            Chris Arcidiacono delivered 16 of his game-high 22 points in first half for the Panthers (11-11), who snapped their second three-game losing streak of the season. Keeshawn Kellman contributed 12 points and 10 rebounds. Philip Byriel added 10 points and three steals to help them build a 14-lead midway through the second quarter and a 36-24 advantage at halftime. Kellman's layup late in the third quarter made it 62-42.

            According to Baudinet, Kupstas' solid performance on Friday, Jan. 25 helped Perkiomen School relieve some stress created by an unexpectedly large number of losses.  "Some of the losses have led to frustration among among the players and coaches," the coach said. "Our schedule is a grind. There are no cupcakes, which means we need to play well in every game to win."

            Kupstas could be the key offensive piece to help the team return to the Pennsylvania Independent School State Tournament's Final Four, according to Baudinet. The player has benefitted from the presence of Arcidiacono and Kellman, two highly touted players.  "Our best offensive games come when he provides a high output," the coach said.

            Over the last five games, the right foot injury has limited Kupstas - who had averaged approximatley 12 points per game before the injury - to approximately four points over the last five games, according to Baudinet. Since hurting his right foot, the Lithuanian native could not practice.  "It really affected his touch and rhythm," the coach said.

            One day earlier, Baudinet encouraged the player to participate in practice. Kupstas said he did what he could, and the effort paid off.

            According to Baudinet, the coaching staff he will have to manage the foot injury. Kupstas said he doesn't plan on seeing a doctor until after the season ends. "Kup is a tough kid," the coach said.

            Two days earlier, Kupstas scored just three points in a 52-44 road loss to The Hill School. Arcidiacono scored a team-high 20 points, while Lane added nine.

            The Panthers have six regular season games to develop consistency, according to Baudinet. He said a series of injuries have led to uneven playing time, a lack of continunity and struggles in all aspects.

            "If we get to the final four, then we have four weeks left," the coach said. "A lot of work has to be done for us to play our best."