The Gustine High School boys’ basketball team faced Delhi for the final time this season on Friday in what turned into a back and forth game with the Reds’ getting the win at 33-31.

The Reds were down early in the first quarter with the Hawks leading 6-0 until #3 Alex Palomino made a 3-pointer to put them on the board. Helping even out the score was #11 Emilio Caballero adding a jump shot, free throw, and a layup to finish the quarter leading 8-6.

Going into the second quarter Delhi was motivated to take the lead back hitting a 3 right away to make the score 9-8, but that wouldn't stop the Reds from moving the ball around and getting it into the hoop. The Red's defense held Delhi to only 5 points in the second quarter, while Gustine was able to break away with 8 putting the Reds back in the lead to go into halftime 16-11. 

After halftime, it was apparent it was going to be a battle between both teams and which one was going to leave with the win. In the third quarter, Delhi was able to add 2 threes and a free throw, while Gustine’s #1 Kevin Zapata would add four points to put the Reds in the lead again this quarter, making the score close at 20-19.

Going into the fourth quarter the Red's defense was strong and they were determined to continue to play hard. With only two minutes left, the game was close at 31-29 giving both teams a chance to still score. Caballero would be put on the free throw line after being fouled during a layup putting the Reds up 33-29.

The Hawks were able to add a jump shot in and went for the final three-pointer to try to tie up the game, but missed, leaving the Reds at home with a win over the Hawks 33-31.

#11 Emilio Caballero had 18 points, #1 Kevin Zapata added 11, #3 Alex Palomino had 3, and both #22 Dylan Parker and #24 Emmanuel Rodriguez added 1 point. 

The Reds have two games left for the season, both away against Denair and Le Grand.