The Tustin boys’ basketball varsity team after taking the win against the Millikan Rams 64-60. Photo courtesy of Ocular Photography.

By: Abigail Pidazo

And the Tustin boys’ basketball team does it again. As expected, Tustin’s defense was challenged, but the boys fought hard to take the win against the Millikan Rams. Highlights from the game include video footage of George Wilson’s dunk, captured by journalist Alexis Diaz.

Now onto semi-finals–Tustin faces their hardest opponent yet: The Village Christian Crusaders. The Village Christian Crusaders are the 2nd seed of the Division 1AA bracket while Tustin is placed 3rd. Both teams are ranked similarly in state among the top 50.

Last week, the Crusaders played a familiar opponent to Tustin, Calabasas High School. Last year, Tustin was defeated by the Calabasas Coyotes in the Division 2A semi-final playoffs.

Significant players to look out for in Village Christian’s basketball team are Bennie Boatwright Jr. and Kahlil Simplis. Both players qualified for McDonald’s All-American games for recognition in outstanding basketball performances. Only 55 players in Southern California were nominated out of 800 students across the nation. Kahlil Simplis is the 6’0 starting point guard for the Crusaders who averages 12 points per game. Bennie Boatwright Jr., a USC commit, is the 6’10 starting forward averaging 25 points per game.

The Crusaders have a roster of nearly all 6’0 players.  Although Tillers may not have the height, our athletes are just as strong. Starting players, Aramie Faletoi and TJ Shorts, both 5’9 will have to meet their match against taller players. TJ Shorts averages 17 points per game and is a key player on both offense and defense. George Wilson and Myles Garvin will have to use their height as an advantage against the 6’0 Crusaders.

Intensity is put on blast for this game for both the gentlemen Tillers and the Crusaders. The gentlemen Tillers are determined to continue the chase for a CIF title.

Permission slips for the rooter bus can be found in the office. For students to be able to ride the rooter bus tomorrow, they must have a signed permission slip as well as a CIF ticket.