After watching their female counterparts win their game against University Prep just a few minutes earlier, the Geffen Academy Bruins came into their match against the Wolves with high energy, focus, and intensity. The Bruins rolled out of the gate, nailing five of their first six three point baskets en route to a double-digit first half lead. It was the supporting cast that propelled Geffen Academy; freshman June Jee nailed a couple timely outside jumpers, and Senior Russell Fisher was cleaning up the glass, tallying six rebounds in the second quarter alone. When the halftime buzzer sounded, seven different Bruins had scored, and Geffen Academy held a slim lead at the break.
But when the second half got underway, the Wolves began to hunt the paint. Scoring in creative ways around the rim, forcing turnovers, and finishing in transition, University Prep jumped out to a double digit lead. Senior Syelus Diaz was hotter than fish grease, splashing six treys through three quarters to carry the load for the Wolves offensively. If NBA broadcaster Kevin Harlan was announcing the game, the TNT telecast would feature Harlan's iconic call, "He's an absolute FLAMETHROWER!" (In regards to Diaz). For the Bruins, however, it looked like the same old story. Grab a sizable lead, and then trip on their own two feet.
But the Bruins' top players took control in 4th quarter. Sophomore Stevan Markovic, who had scored a measly two points in the first half, caught fire in the second, dropping eighteen points over the final two quarters. Markovic, who went on a personal 9-0 run in the 4th, completely turned the tables. And it was Nathan Muhumuza who put the final nail in the University Prep coffin. His ability to score at the cup provided the Bruins with much-needed offense, and he kept relentlessly scoring all the way until the final horn, finishing with 23 points to lead all Geffen Academy scorers. A very encouraging victory for the Bruins, who pick up their first non-tournament win of the year.
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