Mater Dei bounces back to win 3rd place at ANI

Santa Ana (CA) Mater Dei bounced back from what Monarch head coach Gary McKnight called a "a disappointing effort" to win the third place game 71-54 over Rockville (MD) Montrose Christian. McKnight pulled his starting lineup for the final period against Los Angeles (CA) Fairfax because "they did not compete."

The lesson was quickly learned as the Monarchs built a 37-25 halftime lead and were never seriously challenged in the second half. Oregon State signee Marcel Jones continued his strong play as he led Mater Dei with 30 points, including 20 in the first half. He made twelve of 19 shots from the field. and five rebounds.

Gritty 6-0 junior playmaker Mike Gerrity had an outstanding fllor game as he finished with 21 points and eight assists. Freshman Taylor King, who has already committed to UCLA, struggled with his shooting again, making three of eleven from the field. He was nine of 36 for the tournament. However, he finished with ten points and seven rebounds.

6-8 junior Rashad Austin had eight points and five caroms, Chris Henry, who signed with Washington State, did not play, due to an ankle injury
Montrose Christian was led by 6-2 junior K.J. Matsui with 15 points. 6-1 senior guard Antwan Hardy added 14. 6-8 junior power forward Uche Echefu finished with nine points and six rebounds.