Seventh-graders coast to win

Led by a defense that came up big in the departments of steals and

rebounding, Laguna Beach’s boys’ seventh-grade All-Net National

Junior Basketball team had a resounding 55-23 victory over host

Huntington Beach South at Edison High.

Laguna, now 7-2, broke away from an early 6-6 tie by scoring the

final seven points of the first quarter, extended its lead to 18

points at the half, and coasted from there.

A smothering defense produced 17 steals, as well as a new-found

dominance on the boards.

The play of reserve guard Dylan Doumeng typified Laguna’s surge on

defense.

Doumeng, the shortest player on the floor, came up with three

steals and four rebounds, to go along with a season-high six points

on offense.

Back-up center Matt Innins also had a career day, with seven

points, three steals and a whopping 11 rebounds in just two quarters

of play.

Nick Witte and Marcus Hairston shared scoring honors for Laguna as

each had 13 points and three assists.

Witte’s defensive effort consisted of nine rebounds and four

steals.

Kevin Buck and Dalton Sype each scored five points, Clay Knapp had

four points and Warren Murrel’s two points closed out Laguna’s

scoring.

Laguna returns to the court on Sunday to host Huntington Beach

North as it continues to battle for the division lead.