Southern Section Boys’ Basketball : Loyola Defeats Crespi for 3rd Time

Crespi High entered Friday night’s championship game of the Del Rey League tournament at Loyola with something to gain.

Crespi, which finished second in the regular season behind Loyola, could have advanced to the playoffs as a first-place team with a victory in the tournament championship game.

But point guard Chris McGee, the team’s leading scorer (12.8 points a game), was limited to four points in part because he played with a dislocated left shoulder. Guard Matt Luderer had to take charge of the Celts’ offense, scoring a game-high 27 points and adding 10 assists. His efforts were not enough as Loyola edged the Celts, 74-68, to win its 12th consecutive game and third this season against Crespi.

Loyola (20-2, 8-0), led, 66-65, with 2:35 to play and then went on an 8-3 run. Forward Jamal Adams tipped in Eric James’ missed layup with 45 seconds to play to seal the victory.

Forward Pat Brady scored 15 points and center Ken Lynch added eight and 10 rebounds for Crespi (10-11, 5-3 in league play), which finished second in the tournament and will advance to the 4-AA Division playoffs.