The start of the Tri-County Athletic League season couldn’t be coming at a better time for the San Benito boys basketball team. After three consecutive solid performances in the North Monterey County Tournament last week, the Haybalers are playing with confidence and a purpose.
San Benito suffered an opening-round loss to a eventual champion Serra despite its gritty effort, and followed up with victories over Carmel and Alvarez.
“I was really worried about Carmel,” said ‘Balers head coach John Becerra, “because of all the energy and emotion we used up against Serra.”
As it turned out, San Benito’s resolve was more than enough to prevent any letdown. After defeating Carmel 47-38 on Thursday, the ‘Balers rolled to a 59-31 victory over Alvarez to secure the tournament’s consolation championship.
“Those type of teams we should dominate and we did so,” said Becerra. “That’s positive.”
All 12 San Benito players scored in the romp over the Eagles on Friday as the team raced to a 15-6 lead after the first quarter and never let up.
Swingman Brian Haggett led the team with nine points and five assists, while forward Todd Janisch contributed seven defensive rebounds.
“We handled ’em easily,” said Becerra, whose team improved to 5-6 on the season. “We were in control. It was a good win for us.”
Haggett capped off a fine week by pocketing All Tournament honors. The sophomore joined Dean Wilkins (Aptos and Independence Tournaments) and Janisch (Independence) as ‘Balers who have been rewarded for outstanding tournament play.
With San Benito set to visit Gilroy to open league play tomorrow, Becerra believes he has his team ready for the challenges that lie ahead.
“It’s going to get more physical and more intense,” said Becerra, whose ‘Balers have won three of their past four contests. “Our ultimate goal is to win league. We’re not going to be satisfied going .500 or winning a couple of games. No. We’re trying to win league.”
