As the basketball season tipped off, the Gabrielino High School (GHS) varsity boys basketball team began their season against Temple City High School (TCHS) on Nov. 18. Despite an ambitious start in the first quarter, the Eagles struggled to maintain their momentum, ultimately losing 64-36 and marking their first loss of the season.
Under the guidance of Coach Carney, basketball coach, the Eagles are optimistic about the season ahead despite their initial loss.
“I’m confident that we are prepared for the game but it’s hard to say because of how much experience Temple City has,” stated team captain Trevsu Marvel, senior, before tipoff.
The game commenced at 6:30 p.m., with Temple City winning the opening possession. The first quarter was intense, with sophomore Xander Eslava finishing a tough layup, senior shooting guard Jaden Chang’s clutch three-pointer, and senior power forward Trevsu Marvel sinking another three at the buzzer, ending the first quarter with a close 17-18.
“We played better in the first quarter, scored more, and had a stronger defense through communicating on the court,” Chang reflected.
However, the tide turned in the second quarter. Gabrielino’s energy started to diminish and Temple City took advantage of the opportunity to extend their lead. Marvel managed to score a buzzer-beating three-pointer, but by halftime, the Eagles trailed 24-38.
“Our energy started dying down during the second quarter and we kind of fell apart as a team,” Chang commented.
In the third quarter, the Eagles showed resilience, but Temple City’s offense persisted. Temple City’s offensive pressure intensified. Junior point guard Justin Chia led the charge for GHS, knocking down a series of contested jump shots, but Temple City continued their lead to 53-26 by the end of the third.
“I was confident going into this game because I put in the work on my own and with the team,” Chia claimed.
Despite the score gap, GHS continued to fight in the fourth. Temple City scored 11 points in the final minutes, while Gabrielino added 10 of their own. However, it wasn’t sufficient to close the gap resulting in the final score of 64-36.
For many players, the game carried personal significance, as several shared close ties with Temple City’s players through club basketball.
“We have a lot of friends that we play club [basketball] with that also play for Temple City so it’s fun to play as rivals,” Marvel explained.
This game was junior Eric Ly and several of his teammates’ first varsity game. Marking his varsity debut, Ly reflected on the experience going into the third quarter.
“It feels good to be on varsity and be able to play alongside my friends before they graduate,” Ly added.
Despite the loss, the Eagles remain determined on strengthening their team dynamics and improving throughout the season.
“Progressing into the season, we hope to stay consistent, maintain higher energy, and play collectively as a team,” Chang concluded.
