“We are awesome.” Declared center Deonte Littlejohn. Deonte, who did not play last season due to injury, further added: “We are playing incredible basketball and can beat anyone.” True to Deonte’s words, the Dons can beat anyone and did so on Friday night. The JV hoopsters dismantled the Ygnacio Valley Wolves by a score of 68-26. The team of destiny remains undefeated in league play, 9-0, and sit 19-3 overall!
Going into this game, Coach Thomas knew his team would physically overpower their opponents. He took this opportunity to mix and match his players to see which ones worked well together. The starting lineup featured three veteran guards, Illias Kaplanes-Jones, Gavin Beers, and Julian Hood, along with a front court of newcomers Bethel Imasuen and Deonte Littlejohn. The new lineup worked well. Deonte opened the game with a basket. Julian followed with a three pointer then Illias had a wonderful layup. Dons up quickly up 7-1. Deonte continued to score inside to put the Dons up by nine points! Bethel added two points off the glass. Gavin Beers started to steal and score. Beers also found Julian for a closing quarter three pointer. It was Acalanes 27, Ygnacio Valley 3.
The second quarter officially ended the game. The Dons trotted more talent onto the court which the Wolves could simply not match. Landon Deily made a beautiful pass to Spencer Clark for a layup. Spencer then proceeded to score five points in a row including a layup with foul shot. Landon, who was the star of the game, scored a basket. Donovan McGrath hit a three pointer. The Dons were easily beating the Wolves but still showed their opponents incredible sportsmanship. As the quarter neared closure, the Dons allowed a particular Wolves player to score. This incredible act of kindness was well received by fans of both schools.
The 3rd quarter started with Illias hitting his first three pointer of the season. Bethel and Devonte each scored inside. The Dons did not want to embarrass their opponent. Acalanes slowed the game down and did not seem interested in scoring. The home team spent most of their time passing to one another. After three quarter, the Dons led by 32 points.
For the final quarter, a new Don star emerged, Landon Deily. Landon was unstoppable. Number 35 kept scoring at will and dominated the offensive and defensive boards. Landon had his first double-double of the season, 17 points and 16 rebounds. The young center cemented the Dons 68 to 26 victory over the Wolves.
“Sports can present opportunities to grow our capacity for kindness. Coach recognized that and led our players accordingly.” Mentioned superfan, Michelle McGrath.
The JV Basketball team will have their last home game this Monday, January 29, 2024. The Dons will take on College Park at 6:00pm. If Acalanes win, they will secure first place in the Diablo Athletic League!! Come out and support our Dons.