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By Colin Leon Guerrero

2013’s Anthony Olchondra hits the two pointer over, closing the gap between the two teams. (photo by Kevin Wang)

The Class of 2013 pulled off an impressive playoff victory, defeating Class of 2009 48-44 Friday night in the FD Alumni Basketball Tournament at the Jungle.

’13 came out very aggressive as John Baza, Jon Onedera, and Anthony Olchondra used their fresh legs to cut between defenders and get to the basket quickly, as ’13 jumped to a 5-0 lead five minutes into the first half.

’09 came back following the play of Dominic Sablan who weaved his way past the 2013 defense not only drawing the foul, but getting the chance for a three-point play as well. Midway through the half, 09 began to gain some momentum as Stephen Gatewood hit a three pointer to help put ’09 by seven 15-12. Minutes later after a forced turnover Zach Damian punched in a jumper to ’09 up by ten going into the half at 23-13.

“We definitely felt like we were the underdogs coming into this game, we had nothing to lose so we gave it our all,” said Baza as ’13 came out strong in the second half jumping onto an 8-0 lead to bring them back within two in the first ten minutes of the second half.

McDonald’s Player of the Game: John Baza

However, ’09 did not give in that easily as Sablan again would drive his way to the basket to put his team back up by four.

With every basket that ’09 made, Baza would come back down and score another basket for ’13 as they were slowly chipping away at the 09’ lead. With about two minutes left in the second half, Baza hit the biggest shot of the night as he drained a three from the corner to finally give his class the lead at 47-44.

“I threw it up and did not know that it was going to go in, but it was just unbelievable,” said Baza when asked about the game-clinching three pointer.

Both classes’ played physical and with a lot of spirit, but after the end of the game the older 2009 showed good sportsmanship and shook hands with the younger 2013 as they move on to the next round of the playoffs.

PHOTO GALLERY BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

2009’s Stephen Gatewood stretches for a layup over Anthony Olchondra. (photo by Kevin Wang)

2009’s Dominic Sablan kept the game close with many flashy plays. (photo by Kevin Wang)

2009’s Zach Damian pulls up for an easy jumper, keeping their lead by a couple points in the first quarter. (photo by Kevin Wang)

2013’s Jon Baza was on point, as he lead his team in scoring, and eventually leading them to the next round. (photo by Kevin Wang)

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