Written by Matt Wakumoto
Assoc. Sports Editor
Photos by Tucker Judkins
Online Managing Editor
Video by Tucker Judkins, Brian Kojima, & Nick Michael
The boys’ basketball team lost its sixth consecutive game of the season to the San Marino Titans on Wednesday, January 18. The 64-54 loss epitomized the Tigers’ recent league struggles and inability to perform in the paint. South Pas’ home court served as a battleground for the two teams as they represented their respective schools.
Good South Pasadena ball movement was quickly stifled by towering San Marino players, who dominated near the hoop. An ugly first quarter was outlined by poor three-point shooting, and an inability to defend on the inside. The Titans took advantage of South Pasadena’s struggles, with a well-balanced attack from behind the arc.
Senior Lucas Fox’s baseline three provided South Pas with hope heading into the second quarter. The Tigers’ gouged desperately at the Titans, with rushed threes and raw, untamed passion. Senior Matt Scholtz hit a layup in fastbreak shortly after that drew the score to 20-6 in favor of the Titans.
The process of cutting San Marino’s lead was long and grueling for the South Pas players. The deficit provided a blank canvas for South Pasadena to paint with its solid outside shooting and will to succeed. Each drive from Fox and dagger from junior Nick Corvino sent South Pas a stroke closer to catching the Titans.
The team played aggressive defense and hit its free throws, while chipping away at San Marino’s daunting lead. What was once a twenty-one point deficit was cut to just a six point gap during the third quarter. Sophomore Sebastian Au Rivera put on a show in the fourth quarter, racking up nine points. His breakout performance fired up South Pasadena fans, while also renewing the team’s energy.
Fox, was a persistent threat, with 14 points in the loss. His co-captain, Scholtz, scored 11. Sophomore Louis Jamerson finished the game with seven points off the bench, and junior Danny Rios scored eight.
The Tigers’ will travel to Pasadena, to face off with the Blair Vikings on Friday, January 20.
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