The Geffen Academy Bruins, who are swiftly approaching the end of their season, entered their game against New Roads with four games left on their schedule. Needing to go at least 3-1 and probably 4-0 in their final matches of the year in order to make the playoffs, the Bruins faced a tall task in front in them on Thursday. Despite a helter-skelter season similar to that of Geffen Academy's, the Jaguars were led by their senior point guard Cy Arato-Orlovski, one of the most elite playmakers and finishers in the division. But entering the game, Geffen Academy found a way to limit the offensive output of the Jaguars, notching a dominating 22-3 run in the opening frame. Junior Jordy Ohebsion led the way for Geffen Academy in the first quarter, providing yet another scoring outburst in the early stages of the contest. But New Roads climbed their way back into the game in the second period with beautiful ball movement and hard pressure defense. Going into halftime, the Bruins' once largest lead of twenty had been cut to just six.
Going back and forth in the second half and needing an offensive spark, the Bruins leaned on shooting guard Noah Saucedo again. The veteran sniper finished with twelve points on four threes, many of which kept New Roads at an arm's distance. A welcome sight off the bench, Saucedo has been hotter than fish grease recently, going 9-11 from downtown in his last two games. But the hounding defense of freshman Ethan Hong was the true difference-maker in determining the outcome in this one. Hong's sterling ability to contain Arato-Orlovski from decimating the backlines of the Bruins' defense was critical in man-to-man situations, and although New Roads was able to cut it a one score game by the final buzzer, the Bruins sustained a lead all throughout the fourth quarter due to their stifling defense and timely shot-making. It was a massive victory for the Bruins, and they've seemed to hit their stride at exactly the right time of year. Unfortunately, the win didn't come without a stain for Geffen Academy. It was revealed after the game that Hong had suffered an injury, and will likely be out for an extended period of time. Already a tough challenge, the Bruins will probably have to scratch and claw their way into a playoff spot without their best defender. With their final three games in the upcoming week against other playoff hopefuls, each possession will be paramount if the Bruins want a chance to earn a ticket to the dance.
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