HOPWOOD Middle School’s varsity team is building a streak in the boys middle school division of the PSS-NMIBF Interscholastic Basketball League SY25-26, collecting its third consecutive win after defeating Dandan Middle School V, 30-10, Friday at the Marianas High School gym.
Hopwood V’s skill level was unmatched as they proved effective on both ends of the court.
Defensively, HMS V controlled the pace with constant pressure, forcing DMS V into several turnovers and rushed shots. Each stop led to quick transition plays, with HMS V’s dynamic duo of Joshua Lizama and Michael Olaitiman contributing seven and five points, respectively.
Although DMS V struggled to find open looks, they managed to stay within single digits thanks to Kindu Laniyo, who scored six points to cut the deficit to 16-8.
With momentum on their side, HMS V widened the gap as DK Pino sank a three-pointer, while Lance Laxamana and Salmal Kamal added two points each.
DMS V never recovered, scoring only two points in the final stretch before falling 30-10.
Also picking up wins were Saipan International School V, who outlasted Saipan Community School V’s late-game rally, 18-11; Tanapag Middle School V, who defeated Chacha Ocean View Middle School V, 21-17; and Francisco M. Sablan Middle School V, who trounced Mount Carmel School V, 53-16.
Hopwood Middle School V’s Landin Reyes goes up for the fastbreak finish during a game against Dandan Middle School V in the boys middle school division of the PSS-NMIBF Interscholastic Basketball League SY25-26 at the Marianas High School gym on Friday.
Saipan Community School V’s James Van Dam takes the heavily contested shot during a game against Saipan International School V in the boys middle school division of the PSS-NMIBF Interscholastic Basketball League SY25-26 at the Marianas High School gym on Friday.
