The Spartans overcame a tough first quarter to notch a 66-60 over Melbourne Central Catholic win in Florida Friday afternoon.
St. Mary’s (4-2) went on a 42-19 run in the second and third quarter after falling behind 12-11 in the opening frame to the Hustlers who drop to 9-2 with the loss.
The Spartans were led on offense by a game high 24 from sophomore Nicolette D’Itria. Pamela Gonzalez and Olivia Matela both had 11 and Yirsy Queliz 9.
St. Mary’s got a big lift during that run from sophomore Alyssa Grossi. The sophomore had 4 points, 3 deflections, 4 steals and 9 rebounds to lead a great defensive effort against the 40th ranked team in Florida.
“The second and third quarters were our best two quarters we have played at both ends,” said coach Jeff Newhall. “Nicolette and Alyssa were tremendous today all around and really helped us control the game after the opening quarter.”
The Spartans will enjoy the next two days at Universal Studios before returning home Sunday night.
“It’s been a great trip both on and off the court,” said Newhall.
GIRLS BASKETBALL
Lynn Tech 37, Essex Tech 21
Arianna Anaya led the way for the Tigers with 18 points, while Michayla Lawrence contributed 11 points.
Tech (1-3) takes on St. Mary’s in the Walter J. Boverini Tournament next Thursday.
BOYS BASKETBALL
KIPP Academy 71, Presentation of Mary 17
Pius Roberts scored a game-high 16 points. Wallace Reed and Winfred Sanchez each scored 12 points. The Panthers, still undefeated this season at 5-0, are back in action next Thursday when they take on Somerville.
St. Mary’s 74, Melbourne Central Catholic 57
The Spartans were once again led by Jalen Echevarria, who notched 26 points in the victory to close out their Florida trip. Ademide Badmus had a double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds, while Joe Abate-Walsh contributed 13 points.
St. Mary’s (5-0) will take on Lynn Tech in the first round of the Walter J. Boverini Tournament Wednesday.
Lynn Tech 62, Essex Tech 30
Buba Ceesay had a big game with 17 points, while Alex Poisson filled up the stat sheet with 13 points, seven assists and three steals. Amari Gaston had seven points, five rebounds, four assists and six steals, while Qasim Abellard had five points, 13 rebounds and three blocks.