Teams that plan on focusing on shutting down Derek Lorenzen better beware - the Galena High boys basketball team has other players who can score.
Galena had four players score in double figures to thwart the strategy of Southern Section power Crossroads of Santa Monica, Calif., in a 64-56 win on Wednesday in the Las Vegas Prep Tournament. The Grizzlies advanced to that game with a 70-49 win over Central Section power Hanford, Calif., earlier on Wednesday.
With the win over Crossroads, Galena advanced to the ninth place game when it will play against Western today.
"We played very well," said Galena assistant coach Matt Kromberg about the win over Crossroads. "They're a very physical team. They're just a well-coached team."
Sophomore Eric Maupin led the way with 18 points, which included two monster dunks. 6-7 freshman Luke Babbitt and Chad Seidenstricker each added 13 points.
Crossroads focused on stopping Lorenzen, Galena's leading scorer. Lorenzen was still able to score 16 points.
"He earned his points," Kromberg said. "He wasn't getting any looks. It was nice to see guys step it up."
Galena led 34-24 at halftime and maintained control in the second half.
Against Hanford, the Grizzlies led 33-23 at halftime and pulled away in the second half. Lorenzen scored 18 points and Seidenstricker added 11 points. Maupin also had another monster dunk in the game.
"We definitely controlled the ball game throughout," Kromberg said. "The kids came out ready to play."
Kromberg said Galena's coaching staff was also pleased with the way the Grizzlies took care of the ball in the the two games.
He said Galena should be tested by Western. "They're very athletic," he said.
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