Glendale High boys’ basketball team cements its identity in lopsided win over Jordan

BURBANK — After suffering an eye-opening loss July 11, the Glendale High boys’ basketball team put it behind them. Motivated to improve, the Nitros had four productive practices.

The Nitros translated their good play in practice to their most recent game, using crisp passing and taking high-percentage shots to defeat Long Beach Jordan, 52-31, on Thursday night in a Burbank High Summer League contest.

“We were able to execute well,” said Glendale Coach Steve Snodgress, who got a team-high 15 points from center Arthur Terzyan. “We found guys at the right places at the right times.”

The potent offense resulted in 13 of 28 first-half shooting, with a majority of the baskets coming in the paint. The Nitro guards penetrated to break down the defense and dish for those easy buckets. Moreover, off-the-ball movement resulted in more good looks for Glendale.

“We had an advantage in the post and wanted to exploit that,” Terzyan said. “We able to run our offense and our plays. Everybody got to grow in this game.”

Paced by six first-half points apiece from Terzyan, Alex Miralis and guard Tyler Lousararian, the Nitros led 28-10 at halftime. Glendale took control of the half shortly after the Panthers cut their deficit to 10-6. A Miralis basket ignited an 11-2 run and gave Glendale a 21-8 lead.

The Nitros, who got 10 points from Miralis, did not trail.

Glendale’s defense showed equal effort, particularly in the first half, forcing six turnovers and allowing just three field goals.

The momentum would be sustained in the second half, as the Nitros maintained their double-digit lead, and continued to score most of their points inside the paint.

The Panthers showed some full-court press, but it was not as consistent and relentless as Golden Valley, which defeated Glendale on July 11. It was a game Snodgress called “good schooling,” a game his team needed.

Regardless, Glendale’s offense played with identity against Jordan and inspired Snodgress’ confidence leading into the regular season.

“Our paint game is good,” Snodgress said. “It’s not often Glendale has had one. This year, we’re lucky to have Alex and Art, and we’re going to utilize them the best we can.”