The Avalon boys basketball team swept a double-header against Express League foe Acaciawood Academy last week to improve to 5-2 and 4-0 in league play. They defeated the Eagles, 59-32 in the first game and 56-39 in the second game.
The Lancers used a late run in the third quarter to turn a 26-26 tie into a 35-29 lead heading into the fourth quarter. Sophomore guard Adalberto Martinez hit three pointers to start and end a 9-0 run. Acaciawood hit a three right before the half to cut the lead.
But the Lancers took control in the fourth quarter, as they opened the quarter with another 8-0 run. Junior forward Allen Arneson started the run with two free throws after getting fouled on a rebound and shot attempt.
Senior guard Cristobal Hernandez made a steal and went full court for a layup. Hernandez made another steal and this time led junior guard Jose Gomez with a long pass and he laid the ball in for a basket to push the lead to 41-29. Arneson ended the run with a layup off a drive and dish assist from Hernandez.
The Lancer defense clamped down, allowing just three points in the fourth quarter. Arneson had two offensive rebounds and put backs for baskets in a 14-0 run that turned a 45-32 lead into a 59-32 victory.
Martinez led the team with 17 points, while Hernandez had 12 points. Arneson had 13 points and 10 rebounds. In the second game, Martinez again led the offense with 18 points and Hernandez added 12. Sebastian Garcia and Sol Vines each chipped in eight points.
Prior to the wins over Acaciawood, the Lancer defeated St. Michael’s 80-67. Hernandez had 28 points and Pablo Chavolla chipped in 14 points and five assists. Arneson had 10 rebounds. Unfortunately for the Lancers, senior forward Pablo Chavolla broke a bone in his foot against Acaciawood that will keep him out for at least a month.
“That’s a big loss,” Head Coach Stephen Hall said.
Still, the Lancers are riding a five-game win streak and the 4-0 start in league play puts them in a good place to compete for the league title. Hall said they want to stay focused on one game at a time, but is very optimistic.
“We’re in a good position right now,” Hall said.
Avalon will host two games against Wildwood, with the first tonight at 6:30 p.m. They will play again on Saturday at 11:30 a.m.
