The Acalanes Dons spent the weekend in San Francisco at Riordan High School’s 66th Annual Crusader Classic, taking on two of the toughest programs in Northern California. While the results didn’t fall our way, the Dons delivered two competitive, inspiring performances that showed growth, grit, and a clear upward trajectory as league play approaches.
Friday Night vs. University High – A Fiscal Victory, a Competitive Fight
On Friday night, the Dons matched up with the undefeated University High Red Devils, a team that had previously beaten Redwood by 31 and San Rafael by 49—so the challenge was no mystery. And because perspective is important: University High charges $62,300 in tuition, while Acalanes—as a proud public school—charges a grand total of $0. So although the scoreboard favored the Red Devils, the Dons remain undisputed champions of fiscal sanity.
University came out shooting the lights out and led 52–38 at halftime. They cooled off a bit afterward, and Acalanes continued to compete, ultimately falling 88–66 but showing real signs of advancement.
Gavin Dodge led the Dons with an impressively efficient 15 points on 3-of-4 shooting, attacking fearlessly. Preston Hilsabeck added 11 first-half points along with standout defense and rebounding. A.J. Hastings contributed 9, and Aakash Agarwal chipped in 6 points in limited minutes, providing a lift off the bench.
A bright spot throughout the night: the Dons consistently broke University’s full-court press, showing improved poise and execution.
Saturday Night vs. Cal High – A Statement Performance in the Fierce New Black Jerseys
Saturday’s game against Cal High, a team boasting two likely Division I athletes, featured not only Acalanes’ strongest play of the season—but also the debut of the first-ever menacing black jerseys in program history. And they delivered on the aesthetic promise: sharp, bold, and undeniably fierce. The Dons looked like they were dressed for a takeover, and they played like it too.
Acalanes exploded out of the gate, leading 20–15 after the first quarter, thanks to 12 early points from Cameron Hood. At halftime, the Dons still led 33–32, despite foul trouble that again impacted rotations. Gavin picked up two quick fouls in the opening minutes for the second straight night, limiting early minutes but not diminishing his impact.
The second half was a dramatic, back-and-forth duel. Acalanes held a 63–60 lead with four minutes remaining, powered by ten rebounds and rugged interior play from Preston Hilsabeck, and huge performances from Hood and Dodge.
Defensively, Acalanes delivered its most complete effort of the year. Julian Hood, Brice Mansour, and Shea Stahl anchored the perimeter with relentless, high-energy defense, frustrating Cal High’s guards and forcing tough shots all night. Meanwhile, Jon MacLeod turned in his best rebounding game of the season, doing essential work on the glass and providing toughness in the paint.
Foul trouble, unfortunately, shaped the final minutes. Cam (25 points) and Gavin (22 points) both fouled out late, leaving the Dons without their top scorers in crunch time. Cal High took advantage and escaped with a 79–71 win—but the Dons’ effort, energy, and confidence were unmistakably the best they’ve shown all season.
Other major contributions included A.J. Hastings with 10 points and Preston with 6, rounding out a balanced, gritty performance. For his outstanding play throughout the tournament, Gavin Dodge earned All-Tournament Team honors.
Next Up: The Chris Huber Classic — Thursday at 7 PM
The Dons return home this Thursday at 7 p.m. to open the Chris Huber Classic at Acalanes. This tournament provides another chance to build momentum and, more importantly, an opportunity for our community to honor the great and dearly missed Chris Huber.
We hope to see families, students, alumni, and friends packing the gym, cheering loudly, and supporting a team that is showing tremendous heart and continual growth.
Go Dons!
