Jags Roll On!

The only surprise at the O'Connor vs. Boulder Creek game on Friday night was that some in the media predicted an upset win for the host Eagles. The Jaguars apparently ignored that prognostication on their way to to a surprisingly easy and totally dominant 89-57 win.

A game that was supposed to be competitive wasn't, and winning the opening tip was the only consolation the Eagles could claim all night. So dominate were the Jaguars that it seemed at times that no matter what they did worked. When O'Connor was in possession of the ball there was a Jaguar defender there to apply pressure and shut them down. Offensively Boulder Creek took turns feeding the hot hand, and there were many from which to choose.

Boulder Creek saw their halftime lead grow to 18 and then exploded for a 34 point third quarter to put the game out of reach for the Eagles. A raucous Boulder Creek student body was there as witnesses and, just like the Jaguars, they didn't let up until the final buzzer sounded.

Once again the Jaguars relied on stifling team defense and strong rebounding to get them started and easily transitioned to almost flawless offensive production when in possession of the ball.

The Jaguars had plenty of offensive firepower in the game along with other significant contributions from the entire roster. The contributions were impressive and distributed among the team including: Ryan Crane (24 points, 6 for 11 from beyond the arc, 6 rebounds, 2 steals), Ryan Zettle (18 points, 4 for 6 from beyond the arc, 6 assists, 2 steals), Josh Braun (16 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals), Alex Dykhuizen (9 points 7 rebounds, 2 blocks, 1 steal), Weston Newell (7 points, 3 assists, 2 rebounds), Joe Simpson (6 points, 2 rebounds, 1 steal), Cort Watson (2 points, 5 rebounds and a steal). Reserves Jake Hunt, Benji Rutan and Ryan Benn all saw extended minutes and provided the Jags with energy, hustle and scoring when on the floor.


The team capitalized on crisp interior passing and a 3-point barrage from beyond the arc, turning the game into a rout. The Jaguar coaching staff has molded this bunch into the epitome of what a team should be, they are selfless and only care about winning.

With a 15-2 record (5-0 in the Northwest region) the Jaguars find themselves in an enviable position heading into the home stretch of their season. The key for the Jaguars the rest of the way will be to stay focused and take no opponent lightly.

Boulder Creek hits the road again on Tuesday, facing a tough Deer Valley club in another regional contest. These teams faced one another in the Horizon Christmas Tournament with the Jaguars emerging victorious, a result Deer Valley will be looking to avenge.

The Jaguars return home next Friday to face O'Connor again in the much anticipated Hoopcoming game. No doubt the raucous crowd will be in attendance then as well.