Damien Repeats as Sierra Vista Tournament Champions, Defeats Colony 97-80

COVINA – For the second time in as many years, the Damien Spartans’ basketball team met Colony in the championship game of the Sierra Vista tournament. And, for the second time in as many years, Damien went home with the top price, topping Colony 97-80 Saturday night.

The Spartans’ dynamic duo of Junior Cameron Shelton and senior Justin Hemsley led the way and garnering all-tournament honors for their efforts (Shelton was named tournament MVP).

Shelton finished with 39 points and 11 rebounds. Hemsley tallied 28 points and 16 rebounds, while Elijah McCollough added 13 points.

“(Shelton) had an incredible tournament,” Damien head coach Mike LeDuc said. “He did a little bit of everything for us. He can score. He can rebound. He can pass and handle the ball well. He gets his hands on a lot of balls and gets a lot of steals. He’s also a great leader.”

Colony kept the game interesting, keeping the game close trailing only 43-42 at half.

Damien (5-0) opened the game with a 14-2 run, before the Titans was able the calmed things down and made a comeback behind a press defense. They were able to take a brief 38-35 lead behind a 3-point shot by Rodrick McCobb.

Damien then took over in the second half, behind Shelton’s 24 points, including 12 of 16 in the late third to early fourth quarters.

Colony (4-1) would get as close as 59-51 but that would be as close as it will get for the remainder of the contest.

Alex Ochoa led the way for the Titans with 23 points. Sedrick Aldman added 16 points, and Jozelle Carter pitched in 14.

Damien returns to action Tuesday as it hosts Fontana Kaiser. Tipoff is at 6:30pm

Photo: Justin Hemsley takes a break during a game at last year's APU Shootout 1/23/16