By Robert Balajadia

The season debut of the Southern Dolphins and coach Sid Guzman was spoiled by the hot hand of Guam High Panthers senior guard L.J. Aguon, who netted a career best 34 points in the 68-57 win over the Dolphins in Saturday night’s boys basketball showdown.

Aguon had the hot hand in the first half scoring 12 points and just rode the momentum dropping 22 in the second half, including six three pointers.

“I’m not content yet, it’s a long season. This game’s already behind me and I’m looking forward to the next one,” said the humble Aguon. “Austy Hines was just doing his thing and the team was getting me good looks,” said Aguon on how he managed to stay hot.

The Panthers eight-point halftime lead was cut 36-29 after a couple of fast break baskets by the Dolphins. Aguon then got free for a three pointer to squash the run to extend the lead 39-29. After a pair of free throws, Aguon sank another three to go up 41-31. Guam High led 47-36 heading into the fourth quarter.

Dolphins Jose Candaso takes the foul while shooting for two. (photo by Jesse Castro)

The Dolphins rallied back quickly after putting on the full court press, cutting the lead 52-45 while shaving five quick points in less than a minute.

Aguon was able to find enough room for another clean look with Dolphins defender Jose Candaso came flying in to contest the shot, but Aguon sank another heartbreaker to hold off another furious rally by the Dolphins.

The Dolphins managed to cut the lead 59-52 with a little over two minutes left in the game, but Aguon hit the last of his threes in a dagger to extend the lead to double digits, 62-52. Aguon hit a total of eight three pointers for the night!

“I stayed focus before the game and knew that everyone had to come and play, and that’s what the team did.”

Dolphins Ryan Teologo led the team with 15 points while Diallo Cruz had 14. Cruz got into foul trouble early and missed majority of the first half.

Eddie Garza was the only other Panther in double-digits, scoring 10 points.

Other Scores

Okkodo 51, JFK 48
GW 49, ND 47
St. Paul 56, Harvest 36
Sanchez 49, St. John’s 33

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