Cougars Clinch League Title; One Game Left

Last night in the Cougar Den the Capital Christian Boys basketball team cemented their Golden Empire League title with a resounding victory over visiting West Campus 63-28.  The Cougars are now 9 - 0 in league and are assured of at least the title of Co-league Champions. They can make that undisputed on Friday night if they exert their dominance over their guests from Lindhurst High School.

In KCRA's Game of the Week the Cougars played great team ball with great discipline. Their foul count was low in contrast to West Campus who sent the Cougars well into the double bonus in both halves of the game.  The Cougars did not fully capitalize on their many trips to the free throw line shooting only around 58 percent from the charity stripe.

The Cougars found multiple ways to score with 8 different players adding to the scoreboard. The Cougar defense was also on point keeping West Campus contained to just 7 points for the entire second half of the game.  Led by three big blocks from senior Matt Donlan and a game dominating 8 rebounds from sophomore Nifae Lealao, the Cougars were just too big in the paint for the Warriors. Freshman Trey Belton was the leading scorer on the night with 16, backed up by senior Matt Donlan 12, then sophomores D.J. Wilson and Nifae Lealao with 11 each.

Friday night the Cougars will meet league rival, the Lindhurst Blazers to finish out the league season. The Cougars have put together a 15-0 run since December 29th and are determined not to let the Blazers rain on their parade. Friday is also Senior Night when the Cougar Fans will celebrate the careers of seniors Matt Donlan and Tanner Nissen. Matt and Tanner have been teammates since their playing career started in the 4th grade.

Next week playoffs start and the Cougars are assured of a high seed. They are likely to earn a first round bye, then host a home final next week. The Cougars have big dreams but are focusing all their attention on Friday night, with their mantra of "One Game At A Time...."

[Note: Tracey Donlan's son, Matt, plays for the Cougars]