The Jesuit basketball team rushes down the court, breaking their opponent’s full court press as Ben Kunasek ’16 drives to the top of the key. Picking up two defenders, the crafty point guard dishes the ball to an open Mitch Prendergast ’17 on the right wing, who drains another effortless swish to further extend the Rangers’ large lead.
On Tuesday, February 9th the Rangers took on R.L. Turner in Walsh Gym, destroying them 70-39. Michael Jankovich ’18 dropped 25 points on his own, including an incredble five three pointers, making him the leading scorer of the night. Prendergast followed Jankovich with 15 points, four of which came from beyond the three point line. Shawn Regan also had a stellar performance with a season high of 12 points, almost earning a double-double but falling two rebounds short. The Rangers controlled the game from wire to wire, shooting 50% in the first half and also preventing the Lions from scoring in the last 3:50 of the game. Prendergast noted the team’s solid performance in the game, commenting “the team played well and hopefully we can continue this dominance for the rest of the season.”
The following Friday, the Rangers dominated Sunset on our home floor 68-20 for the annual Senior Night, honoring the fourth year senior players Ben Kunasek, Rusty Landon, and Shawn Regan. Jankovich again led the Rangers in scoring with 13 points, closely followed by Prendergast and Kunasek each with 12 points, Kunasek also leading the team in rebounds with a total of 6 boards.
After two solid victories, Jesuit faced one of their biggest challenges of the season, Skyline, on Tuesday the 16th. After maintaining a close lead throughout the first three quarters, Skyline stepped it up and tied Jesuit in the fourth, sending the game into overtime. Winning the tip, the Raiders controlled the ball for 3:56 of the 4 minute overtime, burying a three to gain the lead with 4 seconds left, only allowing the Rangers to take a last second shot by Prendergast, which ultimately fell short. In the bitter loss, Jankovich again proved his offensive prowess with the team high of 16 points, followed by Marcus Hill ’18 with 9. Kunasek felt frustrated, commenting, “The loss was disappointing, we felt like we had them the whole game,” but remained hopeful as he said “I hope we can turn it around for playoffs.”
The loss ended district play, with playoffs beginning Tuesday, February 23rd against Mesquite at Berkner. Mesquite, a competitive opponent, poses a huge threat to the Rangers, especially with the loss of Mitch Prendergast due to a knee injury. However, Coach Hill is optimistic, “excited” and “grateful” to be participating in the UIL State Tournament. He feels “we are in a good position to possible make a good run.”
Tip Off is at 7:30 so make sure to go support your Rangers!
