Mentor wins in Arby’s Classic opener

Almost a week after losing its first game of the season, the Mentor boys basketball team got back on track Dec. 26 at the first day of the Arby’s Classic in Bristol, Tenn.

The Cardinals used a 25-point first quarter and never looked back in an 83-54 victory against Greeneville (Tenn.).

Chad Rogers is rounding into shape and is recovered from a lower leg injury, according to Coach Bob Krizancic, and the proof was on display Dec. 26.

The 6-foot-5 senior forward scored 26 points and had nine rebounds. The performance came nearly a week after Rogers scored 32 points in a loss to Medina on Dec. 20. Most of his points against Greeneville came inside, and that pleased Krizancic, who said his team is just about in tip-top shape after the Cardinals’ long run in the Division I football state playoffs.

That means All-Ohio wide receiver Luke Floirea is ready for the hardwood, and he appeared in midseason form against Greeneville with 16 points and five assists.

“Jake’s in great basketball shape,” said Mentor coach Bob Krizancic.

His backcourt mate Luke Chicone had 18 points and matched Floriea with five assists. Chicone scored 33 points against Medina on Dec. 20.

“I thought our effort was really good,” said Krizancic. “Our press worked well and that was key. (Greenville) was 6-2 coming in and most of their games were in the 50s and 60s, so tempo was our biggest concern. We had 25 points in the first quarter and 23 in the second, so that was big.”

Mentor next plays Dobyns-Bennett (Tenn.) in a second-round game at 5 p.m., Dec. 27.

The Cardinals surged to a 25-11 lead after the first quarter, and were in control the rest of the way. They led, 48-24, at halftime.

This is Mentor’s sixth trip to the Arby’s Classic, and it is looking for its first title at the holiday tournament. In 2011 and 2012, the Cardinals finished second. The tournament traditionally features eight local teams plus a handful teams throughout the southern region and Mentor.

“What I love about this tournament are the great crowds,” said Krizancic. “We get treated so well, and we always come away from this tournament much better. We’re usually here right after Christmas until just before New Year’s and the time we spend together helps create a bond.”