Knights Put Up a Fight in State Finals, but Fall Short
M. Lin
Even though Las Lomas didn’t win the state championship, there was nothing for the team to hang their head about after this historic season. This game alone, showed how much heart the Knights have had this whole season. After being down 23-9 after the first quarter and 44-29 at halftime, Las Lomas only lost by five, 73-68. “We are just not going to lay back and let somebody beat up on us,” said Las Lomas guard Robert Prince to Mercury News.
One of the biggest problems for the Knights throughout the game was dealing with 6’9 center Onyeka Okongwu. Okongwu, a five star recruit finished the game with 27 points 14 rebounds, 5 blocks, and 3 assists. Another key player for the game was Andre Ball, the cousin of Lonzo, Liangelo, and LaMelo Ball. He finished the game with 17 points, 4 rebounds and 1 assist, and he was the one that set the tone for the game after making a dunk while getting fouled. Ball and Okongwu combined for a total of 44 points.
JT Estes, for the Knights had his best performance of the season this game being a relentless finisher against a talented Chino Hills defense. He contributed off the bench with 12 points and was one of the best players for the Knights against Chino Hills. Estes, along with Robert Prince and Nathan Robinson combined for a total of 53 points.
This game marks the end of the season for both teams and the Knights will look for new options next year after losing key players for next season. Estes will hopefully lead the Knights to another strong season and go far in NCS, and possibly state.
