The El Camino Warriors Men’s Basketball team (0-2), lost two games in their season opener as they traveled last to Harry West Gym at San Diego City College last Friday, in which they competed against number one preseason Mt. San Jacinto Community College (51-68) and Southwestern College (44-60).
The Warriors competed well during the first half of play during both games, but their opponents had the upper hand in the second, taking over the scoreboard in points.
“We had a good scout and game plan during the first 18 minutes,” Head Coach Robert Uphoff said. “We had a lapse of focus and judgement, which led to many turnovers.”
The Men could not defend the offensive onslaught of key players during the tournament, which made the huge gap between points scored.
Backup player Elmo Smith stepped up for the Warriors off the bench, scoring 10 points against Mt. San Jacinto. Michael Evans and Miller Sterling both added to the offense with eight of his own.
Sterling and Evans also led on the boards with five rebounds each.
“We took a hit when San Jacinto went on a (15-2) coming out in halftime, and put them up almost 20 points within the first four minutes,” Uphoff said.
After that run it was a little too late for the Warriors to make a comeback.
Guard Marcus Clark showed his skills on offense in their game versus Southwestern, in which he scored an impressive 16 points, three rebounds and one steal.
Smith and Garrett Overbey assisted with eight and five points a piece. Smith also grabbed seven rebounds and two steals. Patrick Rittmon held his ground defensively stealing the ball three times.
“We had too many turnovers on offense which led Southwestern to score multiple fast-break points,” said Uphoff.
“Some of our guys also got benched on Saturday, due to the lack of attendance to meetings and getting to the bus on time.”
The Warriors Hosts their first tournament of the 2013-2014 season this Friday, where they will first compete versus Fresno City Community College.
“I hope our guys have learned from their mistakes, as we take on some tough teams this week,” Uphoff said.