The First Basketball team captured the Whitby Invitational Tournament Championship this past weekend with a fantastic all-around team performance.

The Saints went 3-0 in round robin play as they re-established their team identify of playing hard, smart, and together for four full quarters of basketball. They pushed the ball in transition, attacked with purpose, and shared the ball to find high percentage shots. Meanwhile, on the defensive end of the floor, they committed to executing different systems and making adjustments to frustrate their opponents.

The final game was a back-and-forth affair against a strong program in J. Clarke Richardson. Both teams went on runs throughout, with J. Clarke starting it off by jumping out to a 10-2 lead by capitalizing on Saints turnovers. The Saints settled down though and executed on offense to get some shots to fall while getting back on defense and limiting J. Clarke's transition opportunities. Gabe Cabelli and Spender Haslett dominated the glass, limiting J. Clarke to only one look at the basket. Meanwhile, David Osa-Ogbeide was relentless at attacking the paint on offense and finding teammates for good shot opportunities. Jacari Marshall and Nick Shackell connected from the perimeter and the Saints grabbed a slim 5 point halftime lead.

In the second half, the Saints would bend but never break. J. Clarke made some runs, but the Saints were prepared to answer. Brandon Yi attacked from the wing for a critical 'and one' bucket, while Gabe Cabelli and David Osa-Obbeide smothered J. Clarke's best offensive player. Down the stretch, Spencer Haslett contributed much needed points in the paint while Nick Shackell hit a couple of dagger threes, and the Saints handled full court pressure to close out the game and secure the victory.

A fantastic team performance throughout the tournament; congratulations to the Saints!

Next action continues back in CISAA play on Wednesday, January 17 vs. The York School. Go Saints!