Boys’ basketball: Hart comes away with victory in rivalry game against West Ranch

in the era of transfers, there’s still something very special when neighborhood schools and their fans get together for a high school basketball game, cheer loudly, then end the game by greeting each other with laughs and handshakes.

That was the scene on Tuesday night in the Foothill League battle between host Hart and its rival, West Ranch. Hart played terrific defense and got a strong game from Chad Donohoe, who finished with 19 points, to lead the Indians past West Ranch, 62-53.

Both sides had enthusiastic rooting sections and afterward, there was no need for yellow tape to keep fans off the court. Fans and players warmly gathered to renew acquaintances.

Hart (12-7, 3-0) made its first eight shots, led by 6-foot-8 center Cameron Fuller. He scored 14 points in the first half to help Hart surge into a 38-22 halftime lead.

West Ranch (12-7, 2-1) was having trouble making threes but scored the first seven points of the third quarter and got as close as 40-34. In the fourth quarter, Austin Galuppo, who finished with 19 points, contributed four threes but it was too late.

Hart has played some very good teams this season, losing to the likes of Bishop Montgomery, Crespi and Inglewood. But the Indians also own wins over Campbell Hall, Washington and Calabasas. And when they hustle and are unselfish like Tuesday night in front of their home fans, the result is usually good.

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