Campion hold nerve to retain ISSA Urban U19 basketball title

IN what was possibly their best game of the season at home yesterday, defending champions Campion College held off a determined final quarter surge from St George’s College in the ISSA Urban Schoolboy under-19 basketball finals to win 70-64.

The Ryan Martell-coached team captured the best-of-three series 2-1.

With the series tied 1-1 after both teams won on their opponents’ court, the defending champions were determined to make home-court advantage count this time around. They were out of the blocks quickly, racing to an 18-12 first-quarter lead. Not taking their feet off the pedal, they turned on the pressure heading into the halftime break, controlling the second quarter and outscoring their opponents 21-11 to take a healthy 39-23 lead at the half.

The Clifford Brown-coached St George’s team, determined to get back into the game, showed some fight in the third quarter, outscoring their opponents 17-15. However, the champions still held a comfortable 54-40 lead going into the final quarter.

With their big lead, the defending champions, cheered on by a large number of home fans, were determined not to let their opponents back into the game. However, showing plenty of grit and determination, St George’s were not ready to give up as they cut into the deficit, scoring 24 points while limiting Campion to 16. The comeback came a little too late, however, as Campion held on in the end for a six-point win and back-to-back titles.

Christopher Lawson, with 16 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks, was the top player for Campion, while Jaeden Silvera provided good support with 24 points and three assists. For St George’s, Barrington Daniels led the scoring with 24 points, while Alexander Bailey added 11.

Winning coach Martell was over the moon following his team’s second title in a row.

“I am extremely elated with this win as this one is very special. After winning for the first time in the school’s history last year and returning to defend the title makes it even more special. I am satisfied, excited and overwhelmed, as words cannot describe my feelings at this moment,” said Martell.

He credited the team for their fight in the final quarter.

“After being up by 14 points at one stage and seeing the lead reduced significantly in the final quarter, the guys really showed guts and determination, and this win is for all Campionites,” Martell concluded.

-Raymond Graham