Cypress tops La Habra 58-41 at Staples Center before Clippers game

Cypress players and coaches gather for a team picture before a game with La Habra Wednesday afternoon at Staples Center. (Photo courtesy Cypress basketball).

Cypress High’s boys basketball team made a return trip to the Staples Center Wednesday and defeated La Habra 58-41 in a non-league game before the Clippers game with the Boston Celtics.

“It was good to get our injured guys back in the mix,” said Cypress Coach Derek Mitchell. “Dylan Higa, who has been sidelined three weeks, came back to lead the Centurions with 12 points and seven rebounds.”

Mickey Kadowaki and Devin Cunningham scored six points each for Cypress (2-6).

“The guys were very excited,” Mitchell added. “Coming off a tough loss vs Sonora,  this was a great way to change the narrative. We came out with a renewed confidence knowing we were getting one of captains back.

“Hopefully, this gives us confidence heading into our next game vs Los Al. They are an extremely tough team and we need to feel good about ourselves going into that game.”

La Habra (3-8) was led by Marcus Works with nine points, Robert Collins with seven points and Eric Castillo with six points.

The two teams planned to stay for the NBA game.

“Both teams will be honoring America by holding the flag before the Clippers game,” Mitchell said.