KHS downs MCS in boys basketball, 72-54

 The Kagman High School Ayuyus clipped the Mount Carmel School Knights, 72-54, in Wednesday’s Marianas Interscholastic  Sports Organization boys basketball game held at the Marinas High School Gymnasium.

The Ayuyus improved its win-loss record to 2-0, however its first win was via forfeit. The winless Knights were dealt its third straight loss.

Wednesday’s first scheduled matchup was originally set between Saipan International School and MHS 1 (2-0), but the game was canceled because SIS opted to enter the junior varsity field.

KHS jumped in front early, 16-8, in the opening 10 minutes off six points apiece by Joshua Jones and Mike Taitano.

MCS hung around after its slow start, but still trailed, 33-23, at halftime.

Brandon Santos did the bulk of the damage for KHS in the second quarter with nine points.

MCS’ Reynald Calbatica was held to three points in the first period, but heated up a little in the second frame. He led MCS with 11 markers in the first half, while KHS’ Jones tallied 6 going the other way.

MCS regrouped after the break and mounted a comeback attempt in the third quarter. The Knights pulled within a handful, 52-57, at one point, but KHS’ transition offense eventually took over late in the period.

After the Ayuyus came out of the locker room a little sluggish, KHS’ Jason Lampkin provided the needed spark. Once he got going, Lampkin just took over the game in the second half, ripping down rebound after rebound to go along with his 14 points and the Knights couldn’t do anything to stop him.

When the dust cleared, KHS shot ahead, 51-35, heading into the final canto.

Lampkin remained in the game in the fourth quarter and added seven points before handing it over to the reserves.

He finished with a team-high 23 points, while MCS’ Calbatica topped the box score with 25.

The season continues at MHS today at 4pm with a junior varsity pairing between KHS and Grace Christian Academy followed by the varsity tiff at 5pm. The junior squads are taking the floor for the first time this season, while GCA’s varsity Eagles are still in search of a win after two tries.

KHS 72 – Lampkin 23, Taitano 14, Santos 9, Mettao 6, Jones 6, Hocog 5, Delos Reyes 4, Sabulao 3, Santiago 2.

MCS 54 – Calbatica 25, Igitol 8, Saludez 7, Pamintuan 6, Montes 4, Salas 2, Gagaring 1, Taguchi 1.

Scoring by quarters: 16-8, 33-23, 51-35, 72-54.