The Gustine JV boys’ basketball team concluded their 2024-25 season with a heart-stopping 36-35 loss to the Le Grand Bulldogs on the road. Earlier in the season, Le Grand had defeated Gustine 43-22 on their home court, so Gustine was looking for revenge.
The first period saw a strong start for Gustine. After winning the tip-off, they took an early shot that missed. Le Grand scored first, making it 2-0. Gustine's #3 Alex Palomino then hit two three-pointers and contributed two steals, helping Gustine take a 12-8 lead at the end of the first quarter.
The second period was a different story. Turnovers plagued both teams, but Le Grand found their rhythm, scoring 10 points to Gustine's 5. Le Grand took a narrow 18-17 lead into halftime.
Gustine came out strong after the break, capitalizing on two Le Grand turnovers to tie the game. Palomino continued his strong performance with five points in the third, and a three-pointer by #1 Kevin Zapata helped Gustine regain the lead, 25-22, heading into the final quarter.
The fourth quarter was a nail-biter. #24 Emmanuel Rodriguez scored early for Gustine, but Le Grand answered right back. With the score tied at 29-29, Le Grand's #11 Emilio Caballero hit a crucial three-pointer, giving the Bulldogs a 32-29 advantage. Gustine fought back, drawing fouls and converting free throws to close the gap to 32-31. #22 Dylan Parker then found #11 for two points, putting Gustine back in the lead at 33-32 with under two minutes remaining.
The final minute was a flurry of action. #1 Kevin Zapata made two free throws, extending Gustine's lead. Le Grand's #11 Emilio Caballero responded with two points, bringing the Bulldogs within one. With #55 Deimian Cardona making sure no one passes him and putting up several screens that no one could get through. Palomino was fouled but unfortunately missed both free throws, leaving the score at 35-34 with 45 seconds on the clock. Le Grand's #11 was then fouled with 31 seconds left. He made the first free throw to tie the game and the second to give Le Grand a 36-35 lead. Gustine had the ball with 10 seconds left and called a timeout at half court with 4.0 seconds remaining. Gustine’s #24 Emmanuel Rodriguez took the final shot but was blocked by Le Grands #32 Benjamin Reyes as time expired.
