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Holding a 41-31 halftime lead, the Jets looked one step closer to their first holiday tournament championship in several years. However, a Miramonte team riding a five-game winning streak would not be denied.
The Encinal Women’s Basketball team came in second in the Jade bracket at the 21st annual West Coast Jamboree, a tournament held all across the East Bay. This year, the Jamboree hosted 160 teams from all over California. Jade bracket games were held from December 28-30 at College Park High School.
Miramonte (7-6) used their significant height advantage to outscore Encinal 41-17 in the second half en route to a 72-58 championship game win.
"We started strong and just weren't able to finish as strong. We put up a good fight though," said senior guard Kavanti Brooks who scored 19 points in the final.
Despite the disappointment, the team is still proud of their accomplishment.
“As a coach, all you ask for is your athletes to play hard and have each other's backs. They did just that, and were able to win 2 of 3 games, even when we were out sized,” siad coach Juanita Lyons. “Super proud of my girls.”
The Jets had three players named to the All-Tournament Team: senior Kavanti Brooks (16 PPG), senior Tatiana Rebanal (15 PPG), and freshman Jazzy Alcantar (9 PPG).
"I feel this tournament helped us build confidence and boosted the energy on the court,” said Alcantar. “I think, as a whole, we grew a lot in learning how to play with one another."
Encinal started the tournament strong, defeating host College Park 70-27 on December 28. Rebanal led the way with 24 points.
"We worked really well as a team last night, and were especially in sync on our defense, which then led to a lot of fast breaks," said Rebanal.
The Jets found themselves in a nail-biter during the semifinal. However, their 50-44 win against Head Royce on December 29 led them to the championship.
"I feel I was pretty aggressive defensively. However, offensively I feel like I didn’t have trouble finishing and was able to read the court really well," said Brooks. The senior guard scored 14 points against the Jayhawks. Alcantar had 13 points.
Encinal hopes to build on their tournament momentum as they enter league play in January.
"It was very cool, and a very different experience than what I’m used to,” said freshman Surina Castro. “But overall, it was fun and I’m ready for the next one."
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