Carlmont’s JV boys basketball team defeated the Hillsdale Knights with a score of 47-22 at Carlmont High School on Friday, Feb. 9. The Scots kept their poise and dominated the Knights from the opening tip to the final whistle.
The Scots barely escaped with a win in a previous matchup against the Knights on Jan. 24. In preparation for this game, the Scots worked on improving their focus and staying present in the moment.
“We were just looking to dominate and have fun while making sure our players rotated in and out of the game to keep us locked in,” said Joe Sioeli Fifita, a sophomore at Carlmont.
In the first quarter, the Scots flew out of the gates, dominating on both sides of the ball. Sophomore Emil Gordi imposed his will inside the perimeter, capitalizing on multiple key plays.Â
The first quarter finished with a score of 14-2, favoring the Scots. Despite the big lead, the Scots needed to stay composed.
“Coach told us at the end of the quarter to take all of our anger out on the court, get good shots up, and make good plays,” said Izzy Han, a freshman at Carlmont.
In the second quarter, freshman guard Mikael Brunshteyn found his shot by scoring two mid-range jumpers, keeping the Scots ahead 20-8.Â
“When we have a big lead, coach always tells us to keep our foot on the pedal. Sometimes when we back off, we can get a little out of control, so going into the half, we knew what we had to do,” Han said.
The Scots continued their aggressiveness in the third quarter, playing with more energy than they did in the first half. By the end of the quarter, the Scots increased their lead over the Knights to 35-9.
The Knights were unable to seize any momentum. With only three minutes remaining in the third quarter, Hillsdale’s point guard went up for a shot but was met at the rim by Fifita, who came down with a ferocious block.
“As a team, our goal in this game was not allowing any easy buckets. During the block, I was focused on staying with the guard, not letting him get a shot up,” Fifita said.
As the Scots jousted the Knights on the court, the bench continued to cheer and celebrate after every defensive stop and offensive score.
“One great thing about this year was our team chemistry. No matter the score or the play, they always celebrate for each other,” said Carlmont coach Ryan Sera.
In the fourth quarter, the Scots continued their high-paced offense led by sophomore Ryan Weiss, who made many key offensive plays. The Scots ended the game with a winning score of 47-22.
“At the end of the game, I told everyone that they need to stay mentally tough, but also told them I was proud of the season they have put together,” Sera said.
The Scots finished the season with an overall record of 18-5 and a league record of 7-3, finishing them second in the Penninsula Athletic League. After the game, the Scots celebrated senior night, supporting their friends and classmates.
“Off the court, we continue our friendships, whether it be going to watch varsity play or seeing each other in the hallways,” Han said.
The Scots are ready to head into the off-season, happy with their accomplishments.
“The best moment of the season was creating a good bond with my teammates,” Han said.Â
