Josiah Nance’s Strong Defense Helps Sherman Oaks Notre Dame Secure a Win in Prep Basketball
Notre Dame Secures Victory Behind Nance’s Stellar Defense Against St. Francis
In a commanding performance, Notre Dame High School triumphed over St. Francis, winning 71-48, thanks in part to junior guard Josiah Nance’s strategic defense against 7-foot-4 center Cherif Millogo. Nance, who stands at 6-foot-4, willingly took on the challenge in the game’s pivotal third quarter, significantly impacting the outcome.
“It was a challenge,” Nance reflected on the encounter. “They were letting us be tough. Most physical guy wins.” His efforts were instrumental in transforming a five-point halftime lead into a dominating 20-point margin by the end of the third quarter.
Despite facing foul trouble, Nance effectively limited Millogo, who struggled to score just four points in the second half after contributing 13 in the first. Frustration led to Millogo picking up three offensive fouls during this stretch, illustrating the effectiveness of Nance’s defensive approach.
“We tried to get under him because he’s huge,” Nance explained. “Every time he caught it in the post, we doubled him. I love defense.”
Notre Dame head coach Matt Sargeant lauded Nance’s execution, declaring it an “all-time defensive performance.” Leading the Knights in scoring, NaVorro Bowman contributed 21 points, while Zach White added 15. This crucial Mission League victory keeps Notre Dame’s Open Division playoff hopes alive, bringing their record to 15-6 overall and 2-2 in league play. St. Francis now stands at 18-4.
In other Mission League action, Crespi defeated Chaminade 63-52, with Isaiah Barnes scoring 18 points and Cayman Martin adding 16. Harvard-Westlake edged out Loyola 47-36, driven by Joe Sterling’s 13 points. Sierra Canyon dominated Bishop Alemany, 83-48, led by Maxi Adams with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Arcadia also secured a strong win against Crescenta Valley, 72-54, supported by Owen Eteuati Edwards’ impressive 23 points and 18 rebounds. Lastly, Etiwanda narrowly defeated Rancho Cucamonga 61-56, thanks to Achilles Orji’s 20-point performance.
