Mariners’ Boys Basketball Veterans Battle For Forth Year
In front of several hundred fans, the Alumni eeked-out a 76-74 victory over the … wait for it … the Alumni!
Traditionally, the Alumni play the AHS varsity boys, but because of the tremendous alumni turn-outs, a new format was used this year. The alumni were divided into two squads, those who graduated in the Odd Years, and those who graduated in the Even Years. Instead of playing the varsity boys, they played each other. The varsity boys ran the scorers’ table and cheered on the alumni.
The Odds were led by former SCCAL scoring champ Nick Grieves, who scored 40 points, dropping outrageous 3’s from Steph Curry range. Nick was aided by solid play from former SCCAL MVP Ryan Rocha (‘09), and by the energizer Frankie Horst (‘13), who led the Odds in rebounding and intensity. Max Pepperdine (‘19) and Chris Grieves (‘09) added 15 and 12 points respectively. Jayson Guy (‘17) and Anthony Sanchez (‘19) played ferocious defense, and Gavin Glaum (‘17), Brian Sakoda (‘17), and Shane Modena (‘19) all contributed significant minutes.
Unfortunately, the Odds could not hold-off the Evens. Coming off the bench after an 11-2 deficit to start the game, Isaac Dixon (‘00) and MLB pitcher Carlos Torres (‘00) turned the game around. Their energy, leadership, and all-around play inspired the Evens to play frenetic defense and inspired offense.
With Justin Cellona (‘12) and Jackson Carver (‘18) running the offense and throwing no-look dimes to their teammates, the Odds overtook the Evens in the 2nd quarter. Cole Rothman (‘16), Mr. Outside, and Zak Pepperdine (‘16), Mr. Inside, scored 19 and 20 points respectively. Carlos added 24 points, and Forrest Hays (‘18) crashed the boards and played great D.
The Odds battled back from a fourteen point deficit in the 4th quarter to close within two. With 8 seconds left, Ryan Rocha was the victim of a controversial non-call on a corner 3, and instead of Ryan shooting three free throws, the Evens inbounded the ball and ran-out the clock. Hand shakes, hugs, and a team photo followed the game.
Special thanks to Chris Grieves and Mike Sutherland for officiating the game. Hope to see even more of you next year at the 5th Annual Alumni Game.