Mater Dei players, including Devin Askew (far left) react to the loss to Sierra Canyon in the finals. (Photos: Fernando M. Donado, For OC Sport Zone)
Mater Dei’s boys basketball team had quite a run to reach the CIF Open Division championship game against top-seeded Sierra Canyon Friday night, winnning three games on the road.
But the Monarchs couldn’t pull off another one in the title game at The Walter Pyramid at Long Beach State, losing 59-48.
To see the slide show, please click on the first photo
Devin Askew of Mater Dei tries to use a screen by Logan Cremonesi to get past Amari Bailey of Sierra Canyon.
Wilhelm Breidenbach of Mater Dei looks for an open teammate.
Ryan Evans of Mater Dei is defended by Bronny James of Sierra Canyon.
Shy Odom of Sierra Canyon brings the ball up against Mater Dei.
Aidan Prukop of Mater Dei brings the ball up Friday night.
Bronny James of Sierra Canyon, the son of the Lakers LaBron James, celebrates Friday night. Bronny James is a freshman.
The Mater Dei pep bands entertains Friday night.
Brandon Boston, Jr. of Sierra Canyon tries to get past Devin Askew of Mater Dei.
Devin Askew of Mater Dei gets ready for Friday's final.
Mater Dei players warm up before Friday's championship game.
Dylan White and Dylan Metoyer of Sierra Canyon celebrate the title.
Sierra Canyon's Bronny James (No. 0) and his teammates get ready to receive the championship trophy.
Mater Dei players deal with the loss to Sierra Canyon Friday.
Sierra Canyon players celebrate after winning the CIF title.
Ziare Williams scored 23 points to lead Sierra Canyon. Brandon Boston Jr. added 16 points. Wilhelm Briendenback scored 18 points and Devin Askew 15 points for Mater Dei.
Coach Gary McKnight’s Mater Dei team (25-7) opened the tournament defeating No. 2 Centennial Corona 66-58, then defeated No. 3 Rancho Christian 76-71 and No. 7 Harvard Westlake 65-46.
Both teams will advance to the Southern California regionals beginning next week.
More Stories
Former Santa Margarita basketball standout Kyle Evans signed by UC Irvine
Rusty Van Cleave named new head boys basketball coach at Beckman
OC boys basketball teams battle in competitive Sunny Hills summer tournament