In a hard-fought battle against host Cal High, the Varsity Dons clinched their second championship title of the season, winning 68-57.  Aidan Bodner was named Tournament MVP, and Scott Ruegg was named All Tournament Team.  It was a tough game from the first minute until the last.  The Dons’ teamwork, execution, and tenacity toppled the oversized Cal High Grizzlies, whose starting lineup ranged from 6’2″ to 6’10”.  

Jake Davis was a strong presence underneath the basket, defending, blocking, rebounding, and scoring.  Jackson Aris-Dumas and Aidan both rebounded and stole the ball several times.  Scott rebounded and scored consistently.  

The first quarter, both teams’ offense started slowly. Graham Smith scored the Dons’ first 5 points.  Five minutes into the game, the score was 5-3.  Shreekar Pandey and Aidan each added 2 points, both on assists from Theo Stoll.  With three seconds left, the game was tied 9-9.  Derek Kotarba swished a 3-pointer, putting the Dons up 12-9.  The second quarter, Jackson, Scott, Aidan, and Jake combined to score 19 points to the Grizzlies’ 21 points, and the Dons were up 31-30 at halftime.  

The third quarter was perfectly matched on offense, with both teams scoring 15 points.  Theo had three more assists.  The last six of the Dons third quarter points were scored by Jake and Scott, each of whom scored on offensive rebounds.  The quarter ended 46-45.  In the fourth quarter, the Dons continued their strong defensive effort with tough rebounding and steals, limiting the Grizzlies to 12 points.  Seven Dons scored a combined 22 points.   

Graham and Aidan shot 100% from the free throw line; Jackson, Murphy Baker, and Graham each nailed two 3-pointers; and four Dons scored in double digits:  Scott, Aidan, Graham, and Jake.  

The Dons travel to Santa Rosa on Friday before returning to play Drake HS at home Saturday at 6 p.m. Admission is free with Booster Membership Card for non-students or ASB card for students. Show up!