Monarchs Will Take Break, Then Return With a Purpose

Kamran Sufi could see a State championship slipping away. The thrill of playing in the big game in front of a big crowd had been replaced with the pain of a 22-point loss.

So Sufi, one of four junior starters, took a large dose of reality, assessed the damage and decided to reflect upon next season in the final moments of Mater Dei’s 59-37 loss to Alameda St. Joseph in front of 15,788 in the Arco Arena.

“My first thought was that we’re losing (senior) Reggie Geary,” Sufi said. “Then, I thought we’ve got most of this cast returning. I know personally this game will provide the drive for me next year.

“We’ll take some time off the next two weeks, then we’ll come back and go to work. You’ll see that sparkle in our eyes come that first game next year.”

Teammate Marmet Williams, who had 13 points and seven rebounds, echoed Sufi’s sentiments.

“I really can’t wait until next year,” he said.

But Mater Dei Coach Gary McKnight insisted his team needed some time away from the gym before regrouping for next season.

“Kids need to be kids,” McKnight said. “We’ll open the gym for free play, but we won’t organize anything until a week after Easter.

“I try to encourage most of them to play another sport. Kamran and Jerry Jones are going to play volleyball. Miles Simon will play tennis and baseball. Some others will get caught up on their academics.”

Center Terence Wilborn had mixed feelings after losing the championship, but he offered no excuses. Instead, he’s also already looking forward to next season.

“Hopefully, we can get back to the top next year and play like we did before tonight,” he said. “I’m disappointed, but I’m also happy with the great season we had.”

Mater Dei was bidding to become the first school since Berkeley High in 1906-07 to finish No. 1 in the state in football and basketball. The Monarchs fell one game short, but they tied the school record for most victories (34) in a season, matching the 1990 team that finished 34-1.

“We won’t walk out of here and sulk,” McKnight said. “We beat eight very good opponents to get here. We won three games in five days last week to win the Southern California Regional.

“We have a lot to be happy about. Everyone says I have everybody coming back except Reggie, but we’re losing a great player. Hopefully, we can come back, but for now, it’s time to take a break from basketball.”