JFK SITS IN 2ND SPOT WITH WIN OVER GW

By Charlotte Oh

The John F. Kennedy Islanders triumphed over the George Washington Geckos in a tight matchup Tuesday night, despite playing at the Geckos home gymnasium. Both teams, competing for the number two spot in the ISA/IIAAG Boys Basketball League put up an exciting game, but the Islanders came out on top, winning 66-59. 

Senior Josiah Madrazo led the Islanders, scoring 20 points, while Darwin Ecijan and Jordan Madrazo contributed 14 and 12, respectively. 

Madrazo noted the buildup towards this crucial game, “After our loss against FD, we’ve been on a roll, and we knew GW. We’re tied with them so this is like the battle for the 2nd team.”

Both teams came into the matchup with 8-1 records with two more regular season games remaining.

Although the Islanders were determined to defeat the Geckos in the game of basketball, they also had something even more important to fight for that night. The loss of one of their beloved teammates gave them a deeper drive to work harder and play with all their heart.

“Coming into this game, you know, we were pumped up especially the tragedy of our fellow teammate… He’s looking at us above. I know he wants us to give it our all and compete,” shared Josiah Madrazo.

The battle started off quickly, with both teams exchanging baskets in the first few minutes. Every play another bucket was scored, fueling the players from both sides into a fast-paced game. The score was tight with the Islanders leading by one point at 10-9. However, threes from Ecijan and Jordan Madrazo allowed the Islanders to take a lead. They finished off the first quarter with control, 23-15. 

The second quarter played out in a similar fashion as the first, with the Geckos attempting to close the gap, but the Islanders ultimately leading towards the end of the quarter. GW’s Darnell Camacho made impressive plays to keep the game close and ended as the high scorer of the night at 23 points for the Geckos.

Just down by two points in the second quarter, GW’s Jace Dela Cruz hit a crucial shot, tying the game at 29-29. JFK quickly stopped their momentum with Josiah Madrazo firing back to help the Islanders finish the half at 35-29. 

2ND HALF

Josiah Madrazo shined in the second half, dropping points while also delivering precise passes to his teammates, setting them up to score. Together with his twin, Jordan Madrazo, the two worked together to create plays that gave them the upper hand over the Geckos. As a team, JFK’s overall quickness and agility helped them maintain a slim lead throughout the third quarter. 

“The main key is the little stuff: boxing out, playing defense, and just keeping our composure throughout the game,” noted Josiah Madrazo.

The Geckos fought back in the final quarter, refusing to let the Islanders walk away with an easy win. Camacho hit an early three-pointer followed by a drive to the basket, giving them their first lead of the game at 54-53. 

The Islanders responded swiftly, with multiple players stepping up to score. A steal and layup by Ecijan helped the Islanders go on an eight point run to regain the lead for the remainder of the game. The Islanders finished strong on defense and ended with a rewarding score of 66-59. 

Madrazo reflected on the mindset they have towards the end of the season, “Our goal right now is to win championship and it’s just to keep our winning streak. We’re having our final two games, very tough teams, and we’ll just go from there.”

On the JV side, the Islanders won a close contest, edging out the Geckos 53-52.

The Islanders will face the St. Paul Warriors on Friday night at the St. Paul gymnasium, while the Geckos will remain at their home to compete against Harvest Eagles. 

OTHER TUESDAY GAMES

Guam High 45, Notre Dame 38

Tiyan 48, Harvest 47

St. Paul 87, Sanchez 54

FD 77, Okkodo 58