Boys basketball advances to round of eight with victory against Mark Keppel High

By Spencer Hammond
Staff Writer

Mira Costa boys basketball won its game against Mark Keppel High on Tuesday, 68-52, advancing to the round of eight in Division II of California Interscholastic Federation playoffs.
In the first quarter, Costa converted most of its easy scoring opportunities; however, Keppel’s quickness and strong defensive presence forced several turnovers. Senior point guard Dylan Kim drained a shot from beyond the arc, tying the score. However, the Mustangs were unable to pull ahead, and the quarter ended 15-15.
“Defensively, we rely on our teammates to help with good team defense, but all their guards were quick and great shooters,” senior forward Adam Griese said. “We had to take more personal responsibility guarding our own man and being accountable.”
During the second quarter, the Mustangs increased their intensity level and began to eliminate turnovers but could not extend their lead, ending the half 27-26.
“They were a smaller team, so we utilized our size to wear them down,” Kim said. “Defense is always our main priority because it leads to offense.”
Costa’s aggressiveness toward the basket and tight man-to-man defense helped propel the Mustangs to a six-point run during the third quarter. Junior point guard Johnny Mims sparked the Mustangs defensively, forcing numerous turnovers, allowing them to finish the quarter 48-41.
“We got stops on defense that led to fast breaks for us, which allowed us to settle into our offense and work the ball around to get shots,” Mims said.
Senior shooting guard Jason Romero came off the bench in the second half, scoring 10 points in the game. Costa’s outside shooting proved to be its most important asset in maintaining its lead.
“Our team needed a push, and I could help by making threes,” Romero said.
In the fourth quarter, Costa was the dominant team with consistent defense and efficient offense as it prevailed over Keppel to finish the game with a 68-52 win.
“We shot well, and the offensive rebounding was amazing,” senior shooting guard Chris Lebbin said. “We limited our turnovers and took care of the ball.”
The boys play Lawndale at Lawndale High today at 7 p.m. in the quarterfinals.
“We plan to take better shots and shut down their players in the next game,” senior center Gavin Reagan said.