Wolverines Claw Out Victory in Hunter Classic Final

Wolverines Claw Out Victory in Hunter Classic Final

At times it wasn't pretty, but the result was the right one for the San Bernardino Valley College men's basketball team Sunday night, as they battled to a 65-63 victory in the championship game of the seventh annual Alvin Hunter Classic.

It was the fifth title in a row for the Wolverines at their own tournament.

The Wolverines (6-0) followed the same pattern as they had the previous two nights, jumping out to an early lead Sunday night against West Los Angeles. San Bernardino Valley ran out to a 17-5 advantage in the opening nine minutes, as both teams had troubles making shots in the first half. But the Wildcats fought their way back, closing their deficit to six points at the half.

The Wildcats pushed forward in the second half, getting the Wolverines into foul trouble early. West LA was able to take advantage, taking the lead midway through the second half. But after a timeout, the Wolverines were able to go on an 8-0 run, and hold on the rest of the way.

Kevin McNeal led the Wolverines with 14 points, while Craig LeCesne added 11 and Logan Koch had 10 off the bench. Eddie Hughes led all scorers, accounting for 15 points off the bench for the Wildcats.

Chidi Udengwu was named the tournament's most valuable player, while Kendall Lauderdale and Chris Johnson were named to the all-tournament team for the Wolverines. West Los Angeles' Corey Jackson was also an all-tournament selection.

In other Hunter Classic Games:

3rd Place Game: East Los Angeles 83, Antelope Valley 67

Consoloation Championship: Grossmont 69, Mt. San Jacinto 59