Magnolia Can’t Outrun Misfortune

Magnolia has been successful with its quick style all season, using it to win the Orange League title.

Tuesday night against Hacienda Heights Wilson, the Sentinels met their match.

Wilson (22-5) jumped to a 39-21 halftime lead and was never challenged, advancing to the third round of the Division II-A playoffs with a 91-55 victory over Magnolia.

Wilson point guard Damien Jones scored a game-high 39 points as the Wildcats took advantage of numerous Magnolia defensive breakdowns for layups.

Jones, an all-Miramonte League guard who averaged 28 points this season, had 24 points in the first half.

“Everyone in our league has been trying to slow us down,” said Magnolia Coach Al Walin. “But, we haven’t seen quickness like this all season.”

Fred Henderson and Aaron Williams each scored 20 points to lead Magnolia (18-7). The five starters accounted for all of Magnolia’s points.

The Sentinels made a brief run midway through the third quarter, cutting the Wildcats lead to 15 points on a three-point basket by Williams. After a timeout, Wilson responded with three consecutive baskets to end the run.

“We got lost and disorganized in the first half, but responded well in the third quarter,” Walin said. “We made a run at them but their (Wilson’s) experience showed through.”

Walin, who returns four starters next year, was pleased with his team’s performance this season.

“We have had a great year and have gained some experience,” he said.