Grady boys defeat host San Jon

SAN JON - After a slow start, the Grady boys basketball team's transition game came alive in a big way during a 59-19 district win Thursday over winless host San Jon.

The Bronchos (2-6) led just 7-4 after one quarter but erupted for 24 points in the second period to take a 31-9 lead by intermission. Grady continually pushed the ball rapidly up the floor and kept finding easy shots for teammates against a young and inexperienced Coyotes team.

Grady coach Jonathan Langan was happy to his team's transition game ignite the way it did.

"It's something we've been working on since the beginning of the season," he said "During a loss to Clovis Christian early in the year, we didn't score any transition points. So we've been working on that, and I felt it really came alive tonight."

Grady probably could have scored 80 points if the running clock hadn't kicked in late the third period after the Bronchos forged a 35-point lead.

Jordan Verble scored 17 points to lead Grady, and Zane Rush added 12.

San Jon coach Chad Watson said his team, which fell to 0-9, is vulnerable to such an offensive attack.

"We're playing with a lot of freshmen, and it's a hard row to hoe for us," he said. "No excuses, but we're a young team, and it's tough when our numbers are low. But the kids are staying positive."

Chad Becerra, the lone senior on San Jon's team, scored 15 points.

"He's a great leader. He stays positive, no matter what," Watson said. "He does what he can with the young kids, a class act. They respect him, and he keeps them in the fences."

Langan admitted there was a little tension in his team against the Bronchos. San Jon's school board in December 2019 voted to end its sports cooperative with Grady, citing inequities.

"Some of those guys played for us last year, and we're still really tight with them," he said. "I don't think there's any bad blood; we wish we had those guys here. But I guess we're trying to build a rivalry back up."

Clovis Christian 52, San Jon 18

Clovis Christian jumped to a 36-7 lead at intermission and held the Coyotes scoreless during the third quarter en route to a 52-18 district win Saturday.

"Tough night shooting for us," Watson said.

Becerra scored seven points to lead San Jon, which ended the week 0-10 overall.

Clovis Christian, led by Carter Teune's 10 points, improved to 7-2 overall and 5-2 in District 6.

Melrose 88, San Jon 29

Class 1A defending champion and No. 1-ranked Melrose raced to a 20-point lead in the first quarter en route to an 88-29 district victory April 20.

The Buffaloes (6-0) held a 48-10 lead at intermission.

"The kids try hard; they were just outmanned," Watson said.

Becerra led the Coyotes with nine points.

Trace Jackson led Melrose with 26 points, including six 3-pointers. Tate Sorgen added 18 points.