(SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.) Junior Jace Olson put together a 23-point, seven-rebound performance on Thursday as Gilbert Christian overcame a one-point halftime deficit to defeat Scottsdale Christian 65-58 in 3A boys' basketball action. The Knights improve to 10-3 (4-0) overall with the victory.
 

"Scottsdale Christian played an excellent first half," Head Coach Jason Pasquariello said. "Every time we started to build a lead, they would come down and hit a three. We did a much better job in the second half, limiting their opportunities and controlling the pace of the game. Overall, we were able to pull out a win, on a night where we didn't shoot it particularly well. I'm very pleased with how we are taking care of the ball, with only eleven turnovers in each of the last two games."

The Knights out-rebounded the Eagles on both ends of the floor (39-34), scored 19 points off of turnovers and managed to nearly double SCA's points in the paint (34-18). 

Senior Lopemi Omole served as a catalyst for the impressive effort down low, as he registered yet another double-double, with 14 points and 10 boards. He was also disruptive defensively, posting a team-high three blocks and four steals. 
 

Gilbert Christian got 12 points, six rebounds, two blocks and two steals from senior Keon Talgo, while juniors Owen Fermoyle and Tyler Burr contributed eight and six points, respectively.

The Knights' junior point guard Logan Lucero dished five assists and pulled down four rebounds in the affair. 

"Next week is a gauntlet for us, with three very good teams," Pasquariello said. "ALA-Ironwood and then right away against Pusch Ridge. Finally, we will face Valley a regional game, Friday night."

Tip-off for the GCHS match-up against ALA-Ironwood is scheduled for 7:00pm on Tuesday, January 30th. The game will be played at home. 

-GO KNIGHTS-