Veteran Eagles upend ’Cats

BRAWLEY — Boasting a senior-heavy roster with a formidable and experienced starting five, the Southwest High boys’ basketball team topped Brawley Union High 7458 in both teams’ Imperial Valley League opener here Tuesday night.

The Eagles were led by Grant Hansink in the effort, who scored 20 points.

The game began to tip heavily toward the Eagles’ favor in the second half after they outscored the Wildcats 20-14 in the third quarter, giving them a 5540 lead.

While the Wildcats found their groove midway through the final quarter in part due to their tough defense, the Eagles met them with equal intensity and continued to make plays, particularly under the basket with continued help from Hansink.

The senior starter had 12 points in the fourth quarter to lead the Eagles in that quarter of action.

Helping give Southwest a solid start in the win was Tyler Saikhon, who had seven points in the first quarter, including a perfect 5-for-5 effort at the free throw line, to help give the visiting Eagles a strong 21-11 lead.

The Eagles’ victory was certainly a team effort as the starting five finished the game with double figures in scoring.

Saikhon finished with 11 points, Cameron Jungers had 10 points, Eric Pompa had 12 points and Ryan Silva finished with 15.

The result moves Southwest to 8-8 overall and 1-0 in IVL action, while Brawley moves to 11-8 overall and 0-1 in league play.

Both teams return to action at 7 p.m. Friday, with Brawley hosting Imperial and Southwest hosting Holtville.