Azalea 8th Grade Boys Finish Regular Season Play, Look to Finish Strong at JayCees Tournament in Crescent City

February 28, 2023

The Azalea Bruin boys 8th grade basketball team wrapped up regular season play for 2023, hosting a powerful Marshfield team Monday evening.

Aiden Holmes, #11, breaking down the Marshfield defense at mid-court.

The physically bigger Marshfield team came out in the first period and defensively established a full court press that initially caused problems for the Bruin boys as Marshfield took an early 3-10 lead.

Elijah Quintero, #22, putting the ball up under the basket, had 3 points in the game.

But the Bruin boys would fight through the press and tighten their defense in the second half of the first period, closing the gap to 10-14.

#4, Jayce Peterson-Salcido, breaking the Marshfield press, had 3 points in the game.

However, Marshfield would continue to press in the second period, forcing Bruin boys turnovers that Marshfield would capitalize on at the basket, extending their lead to a comfortable 18 points going into halftime.

Grady Maylin, #30, driving to the basket for 2 of his 13 points on the night.

“This group of Azalea 8th grade boys has used their defense to set the tone for them, and hasn’t let adversity stop them this season” the Azalea head coach told the Compass Monday.

#12, Cole Harlan, applying pressure in the back court

Lewis Moore, #51, looking for the open pass inside.

“Over the course of this unusual long but short season, these kids have grown tremendously both individually and as a team.” he told the Compass. “Through the ups and downs through out the season, they’ve stayed close and kept improving, really making the best our situation. I couldn’t be more proud of these kids on and off the court” he said.

Owen, #15, hitting one of his two 3 pointers in the game.

Although the regular season has concluded, the Azalea Bruin boys will look to finish their season strong, participating in the annual JayCees tournament in Crescent City this weekend.