Glendora, CA (Men’s Basketball) -- During the 2006-2007 Citrus men’s basketball season, the Fighting Owls appeared in the championship game of all four tournaments that they entered. In all four cases, the Owls fell just short, losing in the championship game of each of those tournaments.
Determined to not have the same thing reoccur this season, Citrus took care of business this past weekend, as they blew through the Knights Invitational hosted by San Diego City College. The Fighting Owls won their first tournament under Head Coach Rick Croy as they pounded Napa Valley in the championship game last night, 100-62.
Over the course of the weekend, Citrus flexed their muscle, kicking things off with an impressive 105-91 victory over Compton College in the first round. Sophomore Guard Buchi Awaji had one of his best games to date, pouring in 27 points on 9 of 16 shooting in just 25 minutes of play.
In the second round, Awaji and the Owls picked up right where they left, as Awaji dropped 26 points on Grossmont, as Citrus cruised to a 95-65 win. Awaji also chipped in with 12 rebounds, while Darren Moore added 14 points.
For his stellar play throughout the tournament, Awaji was named tournament MVP, and fellow Owls, Richard Frohlich and Darren Moore were named to the All-Tournament team.
With three more impressive victories under their belt, the Fighting Owls were rewarded for their play with their highest ever SoCal and state rankings. Citrus, who is 5-0 on the season, debuted at #5 in Southern California Coaches Poll and #10 in the state poll as of Monday morning.
The Fighting Owls continue their season this weekend as they host the Neil Edwards Classic. The three day tournament, begins the day after Thanksgiving, with Citrus taking on Victor Valley. Tip-off is set for 1:00 PM.