March 7, 2006
SPORTSTough test lies ahead for T-birds in playoffs
Mesa’s Arturo Donzella’s fast and furious shooting was just what the Thunderbirds needed in a heated overtime win against Scottsdale on Feb. 22.
Donzella scored 21 points, including a much needed two pointer that put the game into overtime, where the Thunderbirds pull out a 75-65 victory over the rival Artichokes.
After taking early control of the game, point guard TJ Benson launched a well-paced rhythm for the Thunderbirds. Effort on the Thunderbirds’ behalf was complimented by the team’s strong communication skills. An assist from Gabriel Freeman to Bailey made for a sweet hook shot as MCC sailed through the first half, leading 33-25 at intermission.
Yet, Mesa’s defense was challenged within the first five minutes of the second half by Scottsdale, who had turned their preformance up it a notch
Overall, SCC dominated the second half and seemed to have locked up the win at 61-59, but that all changed when Donzella got the ball in his hands. The Gilbert High alumnus broke away on a fast break and made a crucial delivery to the net with seconds left on the clock sending the game into overtime.
“We were getting worried at that point,” explained MCC forward Emanuel Brown. “We were doing so well from the beginning of the game, and then all of a sudden they came back at us in the second half, but luckily we were able to tie it up and get an overtime, which we really needed.”
Mesa quickly showed Scottsdale that they had full intentions of winning the game in overtime when Benson scored the first points on a three pointer. Scottsdale followed with a quick two, but was shut down by the MCC defense.
The strongest play in overtime was executed after a timeout by Mesa. A play that started with Benson ended with Freeman scoring on a highlight dunk and placed the Thunderbirds ahead by five. Additional points from Donzella and Benson sealed the win.
The victory over SCC was important for the men in their quest to make the region playoffs. They currently hold the fourth and final spot over Yavapai College.
The playoffs will begin March 9 and MCC will most likely play at top -ranked Cochise College in the first round.
Volume 43, Issue 11. Today is
Arturo Donzella of Mesa looks for the open man against Scottsdale Community College on Feb. 22, as he defends the ball from Bryan Price.
Thunderbird forward Derek Bailey does his best to defend Scottsdale Community College’s Dustin Fish during the first half of their match up on Feb. 22.
photos by Ami Johnson