Courtesy of VHS Coaches
This weekend the Buccaneers hosted their final home games of the season against the
Monroe Rams. Friday night the Bucs implemented a new zone defense which worked
brilliantly. Valdez forced a number of turnovers and managed to hold Monroe to only 2
points after one quarter, while scoring 12 of their own. In the 2nd quarter, Monroe made
some adjustments and managed to go on a scoring run, but Valdez held on to a 26-21
lead going into halftime.
In the third quarter, Valdez continued to add to their lead, outscoring the Rams by 4 to
lead 37-28. In the final quarter, Monroe started to go on a scoring run. Some hot
shooting from 3 as well as aggressive drives to the basket resulting in free throws had
the rams take the lead with seconds remaining. Valdez attempted a last second shot to
win the game but ultimately fell short and ended up losing 47-48. Jarrett Gage and Tino
Tucker lead the way scoring with 18 and 11 points.
Saturday afternoon the Bucs came with renewed focus against their opponent. After
starting the game in a 0-6 deficit, Valdez went on a 12-0 scoring run with great ball
movement and hard cuts to the basket to take the lead.
In the second quarter Valdez had some struggles running their offense and a few
defensive lapses which lead to Monroe having their highest scoring quarter of the
weekend (20). Valdez trailed at the half 21-26.
The third quarter was a battle for both teams. The Bucs worked hard to generate shots
close to the basket which resulted in many free throws. Valdez trailed 35-37 entering
the fourth quarter.
The Bucs kept cool heads as the game came down to the wire once again, generating
great shots through their motion offense and playing stifling zone defense. Raising to
the level of physicality being allowed, Valdez drew many fouls, and again, were able to
generate free throws, paired with a couple timely 3pt shots made by Romen Weber took
the lead with seconds remaining in the game. At this point, with Valdez controlling the
ball, Monroe would be forced to extend the game by fouling and the Bucs made their
free throws to seal the win 54-49. Gage and Tucker lead the way for the Bucs again
with 16 and 13 points.
The JV Bucs end their successful season this weekend with two road games against
the Delta Huskies.