Hesperia Beats Jinx and Now Goes for Title

In 1983, Hesperia Christian reached the quarterfinals of the Small Schools basketball playoffs, losing to eventual champion Crossroads, 94-62.

In 1984, Hesperia advanced to the round of eight, only to fall to eventual champion Pasadena Poly, 56-55.

This year, Hesperia has done more than overcome its quarterfinal jinx. Coach Bruce Comer’s team will meet Ventura Temple Christian tonight at 7:30 for the Small Schools championship at Victor Valley High in Victorville.

“Three years ago, I felt that this team had the potential to play in the championship game as seniors,” said Comer, whose team is 21-2 this season and 64-6 over the last three seasons. “We always felt we had the ability. But then you have to go out and do it.”

Led by forward Kurt Agens, who is averaging 22 points a game, the Patriots have won 16 straight. Ventura (21-2), coached by Dennis Judd, is led by 6-3 Jeff Boehm, who is averaging 27 points a game.