The Hopkinton High School boys basketball team, playing in front of a packed home crowd Saturday evening, battled a tough Middleborough team before fading down the stretch and suffering a 71-58 defeat in the Division 2 tournament’s Round of 32.

Hopkinton, energized by its crowd, jumped out to an 11-0 lead. The Hillers led by four points after one period, trailed by four at the half, and were down by a point heading into the final quarter, when the shots just would not drop for the home team. Hopkinton could only manage four points in the final 5 1/2 minutes — all on free throws.

Jack Ianelli and Cooper Willadsen led Hopkinton with 16 points apiece.

The sixth-seeded Hillers, champions of the Tri-Valley League Large School Division, end their impressive season with a record of 17-4.

Middleborough (14-8), seeded 38th, advances to play Milford in the Round of 16.

Cooper Willadsen lets fly with a 3-pointer. PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

James Marcinowski goes up for two. PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Sam Pantera puts a move on a defender. PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Coach Tom Keane instructs the players. PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Gavin Cho launches a 3-pointer. PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Sam Dadagian looks to drive. PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Jack Ianelli soars to the basket. PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Jack Ianelli surveys the court. PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO