Hancock Defeats Miramar, Advances to Second Round of State Playoffs

Hancock men's basketball defeated Miramar College 77-74 in Round 1 of the state playoffs Wednesday evening.

The Bulldogs were awarded a playoff bid following a 22-6 season and were matched up a solid Miramar team who came in with a 16-12 overall record.

Hancock set the tone early, explointing their inside advantage with consecutive buckets in the paint by sophomore forward Spirit Ricks and excellent rim protection by sophomore JT Riddick, who led the state in blocks per game with 3.2.

Sharpshooting by the Jets kept the game within reach. The Bulldogs led 40-31 at the half.

It appeared as though the Bulldogs would run away early in the second half, commanding a 12-point lead following a deep three-pointer by sophomore guard Diego Lucas at the 18 minute mark.

But once again, the Jets relied on steady guard play and three-point shooting, eventually taking the lead from the Bulldogs 62-66 with 5:33 remaining on the game clock.

That is when sophomore guard Glenn Jordan took over, attacking the cup and making 5 consecutive layups, including a perfectly executed full-court bomb from sophomore Gabrys Sadaunykas to Jordan for the conversion. The Bulldogs regained the lead 76-74 with just 11 seconds remaining. A free-throw by Ricks would extend the lead to 77-74.

The Jets had one final shot attempt from three to tie the game but it fell short. The Bulldogs secure the victory 77-74 and advance to the Quarterfinals of the state playoffs.

They will travel to Orange County to face #1 ranked Fullerton College this Saturday March 2, 2019. Tip-off is at 7pm.

*Bulldogs fans - If you want to travel with the Bulldogs and attend the game, call for Rooters Bus Information at (805) 922-6966 ext. 3359