(Marana, AZ)
Bill McCulloch
On a very chilly night these two Marana area high schools were set to light it up in the warmth of the Tiger’s gymnasium.
Both teams came out hot, Mountain View from the outside scorching the nets for three trifectas from beyond the arc. Marana came out with a suffocating three quarter court press causing chaos for the Mountain Lions and scoring in transition off of turnovers. At the end of the first quarter, the Tigers lead, but only by a bucket 16-14.
In the second quarter, Marana laid off the press even though it had been successful. The Mountain Lions went cold from the outside as the Tigers packed in the 2-3 zone defense not allowing any inside shots. Mountain View only managed seven points for the quarter as Marana extended their lead to 29-21 heading into the locker room at halftime.
Halftime adjustments for the Mountain Lions saw them come out with a press of their own putting pressure on Marana bringing the ball up. There was some sloppy play as both teams turned the ball over frequently, but Mt. View could only shave off two points of their halftime deficit. End of three quarters 37-31 with Marana holding the lead.
With the lead going into the final stanza, The Tigers Coach Camron Dozier made it near impossible for Mt. View to get the ball inside by and often trapping the ball off the wings. There was no answer from the outside as the Mountain Lions turned the ball over time and time again never threatening to comeback at went quietly only managing to score six points and losing 53-37.
Mountain View will take their Holiday break and return to action January 9th at Tucson High.
Marana will travel to Phoenix for participate in the Cactus Jam from December 27th to 30th. Sunset High is their first matchup.
