Mission League Basketball Tournament Plans Are Set: Here’s What You Need to Know
Mission League Basketball Tournament Set to Begin, Final Seedings Clarified
The Mission League basketball tournament is poised to kick off on Thursday, following decisive results from Tuesday’s games that outlined the seeding for the teams. The matchup highlights promise intense competition as teams aim for a path to the Southern Section playoffs.
In a thrilling encounter, Crespi secured a narrow 65-61 victory over Loyola, thanks to a remarkable basket by Isaiah Barnes, who scored while falling down with only 15 seconds remaining in the game. Despite the loss, Loyola finished fourth in the seedings, joining Crespi and St. Francis in a three-way tie for fourth place.
The Cubs, now with a record of 14-14, face a critical challenge on Saturday. They must win against the victor of Thursday’s game between Bishop Alemany (No. 8) and St. Francis (No. 5) to maintain their playoff ambitions, as a record of .500 or better is required for at-large consideration.
On Thursday, another notable matchup features No. 7 Chaminade taking on No. 6 Crespi, with the winner advancing to play at Harvard-Westlake on Saturday.
Crespi’s offensive efforts were led by 6-foot-9 Rodney Mukendi, who contributed 17 points. For Loyola, Deuce Newt scored 15 points.
In other results, Harvard-Westlake dominated St. Francis with a score of 90-56, propelled by Joe Sterling’s impressive performance of seven three-pointers and a total of 27 points. Amir Jones added 17 points, while St. Francis competed without their center, Cherif Millogo.
Sherman Oaks Notre Dame claimed an 81-48 victory over Bishop Alemany, solidifying their position in second place in the Mission League and securing an automatic playoff spot. Zach White had a standout performance with 26 points and 10 rebounds, while the Knights played without NaVorro Bowman.
Sierra Canyon showcased their prowess, defeating Chaminade 79-28, with Brandon McCoy scoring 18 points and Maxi Adams contributing 17 points. In another matchup, Crean Lutheran edged La Habra 76-67 to take first place in the Crestview League, while Mira Costa triumphed over Peninsula 53-41, with Logan Dugdale recording 17 points and 10 rebounds.
