Caleb Gottry attends Chandler Preparatory Academy and is a member of the AIA’s Student SID program.

The Titans took a physical beating on Tuesday, December 10 against the Warriors, but continued to drive to the basket, took a convincing lead, and won 58-44. Coach Wilson said this about the Warriors:

“They’re a tough, scrappy team and coming off of our tournament, we knew that we had to be prepared to get a win tonight.”

The Titans certainly benefited from their preparation throughout the game, controlling the ball well, giving opportunities for strong drives. Sophomore Noah Rasmussen shined offensively for the Titans, frequently bringing the ball through the key with great control, either leading to a basket or sending Rasmussen to the free-throw line, where he made three of six. Rasmussen also sunk two baskets from the three-point line. Senior Cameron Nikjou and juniors Joey Pupillo and Josh Capel also drove the ball for a bucket in the paint several times, totaling half of the team’s points. The Titans were in the double bonus for the latter parts of both the second and the fourth quarter, taking hits for a chance for points at the free throw line. Pupillo said this about the offensive strategy:

“Offensively, it was a little bit sloppy, we got downhill and we got to the basket. We drew fouls and we finished layups, so overall I think it was pretty good.”

Defensively, several Titan players got their hands on the ball throughout the game for several steals and numerous tips. Despite the size disadvantage, almost everybody on the court for the Titans brought down rebounds with good coverage and complete box outs. The Titans kept improving defensively throughout the game and held the Warriors scoreless for two minutes late in the fourth quarter. Coach Wilson said this about his defense:

“We’re getting better. We’re rotating a lot better. We’re small, so we have to rebound and play hard defense and I think we keep improving in that area.”

The Titans look to win their first away game versus the Phoenix Country Day Eagles at Talking Stick Resort Arena on December 13. Titan Up.