After a disappointing loss to San Marin in the second round of NCS, it looked like the end of a successful Campo boys’ basketball campaign; however, with Bishop O’Dowd’s last minute move to the “open” division of the state State tournament, Campo was given another chance to extend their season.
Ranked 10th out of 13 teams in the tourney bracket, Campo went on to post successive wins over Burlingame and El Cerrito.
Then, Campo defeated Enterprise on March 12 in the semi-finals. According to junior Andrew Zolintakis, the team went in confident and prepared to take advantage of the opportunity. “We knew what we were capable of and didn’t want to waste our second chance,” he said.
“I think the early loss made us appreciate the fact that we have to give it our best every game,” said Jack Evans.
With home fans cheering for Enterprise and shouting insults at Campo players, the gym was loud, according to Zolintakis and Evans. Both found it difficult to concentrate and, at times, they could barely hear their teammates on the court. However, they pushed through. Zolintakis’ scored 19 points in the 1st half.
Junior Justin Dunn and senior Matt McCue were also a fundamental part of the win. Zolintakis commended the efforts of the team. “It was a complete team effort; everyone played well,” he said.
At half time, Campo was up 34 to 28. The game remained close, until the 4th quarter when Campo pulled ahead after two dunks by sophomore Chris Hansen.
Campo will now face Sacred Heart on Saturday March 16 in the Northern California Finals. The winner moves on the State Championship.
Although Sacred Heart won their section, Evans and Zolintakis are optimistic. “We understand that Scared Heart is a good team but we’re confident in our abilities as a team,” Zolintakis said.
