Coming off an overtime thriller against Jordan, the Wilson boys’ basketball team was eager to pick up another Moore League win at home on Friday against Lakewood. Thanks to a selfless performance from the team’s big man and some relentless defensive pressure from its guards, the Bruins did exactly that, prevailing 73-63.
Wilson trailed by a point after the first quarter and trailed 30-29 late in the second. But their press and ball pressure turned the game, as they went on a 13-4 run in the third quarter to take control of the game.
“We’re small, we have to apply pressure,” said Wilson coach James Boykin. “It’s a delicate balance though, putting pressure on but not getting fouls called on us.”
Junior Jackson Barnhill had 20 points and six blocks in the game. While Barnhill is more of a guard skill-wise, the 6’7″ junior has played a lot in the paint.
“He’s our only big guy, so we’ve asked him to do a lot,” said Boykin. “He’s doing an excellent job of protecting the middle–he’s a selfless kid.”
“I just want to do whatever they tell me to,” said Barnhill. “If that’s shoot, drive, rebound, defend the rim, anything.”
Pektra Monh had 17 points for the Bruins and was a big part of their defensive intensity as well. For Lakewood, senior point guard Trey Perry led the way with a game-high 26 points.
Wilson (6-6, 2-0) hosts Compton on Monday while Lakewood (3-7, 0-1) visits Cabrillo.
