MP Runs Tukee

Last night’s boys basketball game between Mountain Pointe and Desert Vista met all expectations.  It was #2 vs. #5, the Battle for Ahwatukee, and two talent filled teams going at for 4 quarters; and as an added bonus, it went into overtime.  When the clock struck all zeroes, the Pride were victorious 87-85. It was the first win MP has had over DV in quite sometime, extended their winning to 7 games, and gave them their 11th win of the season; which ties the total for all of last season.  Things have changed in the Mountain Pointe boys basketball program.  “When I had my first workout with the boys back in April, I knew we had the needed tools.” Coach Eason explains.  “Games like these are won in the off-season, when you can build chemistry and trust.”

The Pride were lead by Senior Ryan Pate, who scored 20 points; connecting on 2 big three’s late in the 4th quarter.  “Ryan is a good shooter, but we’ve been telling him that seniors do everything to win games, and tonight he did.”  Eason said.  “People think about those three’s, I think about the offensive rebounds, the put back, and the loose ball he got on the floor.  That’s senior leadership, and that’s what wins championships.”

MP took an early lead, and controlled the majority of the first half.  However, in the third quarter, the tide turned and DV took control of the game. In the past MP would have given up, but Coach Eason has gotten this team to fight to the end, and down 64-71 with left in the fourth, the Pride made a run.  Finishing the quarter on a 10-3 run, and sending the game into overtime.

In overtime, DV scored a quick 3, but some slick ball handling and scoring by junior point guard Khalid Price (14 points) and some clutch free throws by senior guard Amarion Cash (16 points), the Pride closed out the game. Eason added, “In big games you expect your leaders to step up, and our 2 captains did just that in OT.”

The Pride are off this week for final exams, but are back at it on December 26th 8:30pm vs. Mesquite in the McClintock Holiday Tournament.  The bracket will be out, so come spend the holidays with the team.