Royals book spot in ESIAC Championship game with 59-31 win

For the second year in a row, the boys’ basketball team at Delmarva Christian will host the ESIAC Championship following a 59-31 win over Salisbury Christian Feb. 18.

The defending champs handled business like professionals in the semifinal.

“One of the things that coach Pat [Woods] said beforehand was that we need to out-execute, impose our will, and that we're gonna play a lot of press to kind of just shake them up,” said captain Landon Jackson.

Delmarva Christian could have overlooked a squad they outscored 124-60 in the two regular-season contests, but players took advantage of the chance to perform at a high level.

“If we want to be champions, we need to play like champions, no matter what,” Woods said. “When we're getting blown out, or when we're blowing somebody out, we can't change. The message is always be who you are consistently regardless of the circumstances, and that's a life message also.”

A massive 23-7 first quarter put the game out of reach after the first eight minutes, allowing the Royals to be selective with their shots and aggressive on defense.

“Imposing our will and getting the shots we wanted was the biggest part, and then forcing turnovers and pressure on defense really helped us out,” Jackson said.

Woods worked in nearly every player on the expanded roster, and by the end of the game, each player contributed to the winning effort, but none let their foot off the gas.

Junior Josh LoRusso drew the tough assignment of marking senior Forrez Davis, but he accepted the challenge, creating a few turnovers and having energy to contribute on offense.

His buzzer-beating three-pointer made it 35-16 at the half. He has a history of being clutch for his teammates.

“I know they have my back and I trust them,” LoRusso said. “They know I can make the shot, so I took it.”

The starters were out of the game by the fourth quarter with the Royals leading 47-18, giving the rotational and younger players valuable minutes.

Woods was pleased with his team's unselfish play and adherence to details when they executed the offense.

“I like a team that spreads the ball around,” Woods said. “And everybody takes their shots – whoever's open gets the shot. I like playing that way. The ball has energy; you want to move it around.”

Delmarva Christian is set to take on Worcester Prep at 5:30 p.m., Friday, Feb. 20, for the championship.

Girls fall in semis

The Delmarva Christian girls’ basketball team fell 44-21 to Sts. Peter & Paul in the semifinals of the ESIAC tournament.

Eva Elliott led the way with 11 points, three rebounds, two steals, two blocks and one assist. Eve Bohinski added seven points and 10 rebounds.