The DeMatha Stags and the Gonzaga Eagles (ranked 48 and seven in the MaxPreps national rankings respectively) squared off in a high-profile match. DeMatha took a 69-60 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Eagles on Tuesday. It was the first time this season that DeMatha let down their fans at home.
DeMatha's defeat came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Ashton (ace) Meeks, who scored 18 points along with two steals. Meeks hasn't dropped below two steals for three straight games. Another player making a difference was Jamaal Mcknight jr., who scored 13 points along with three steals.
DeMatha struggled to get the ball back on offense and finished the game with only four offensive rebounds. That's the fewest offensive rebounds they've managed all season.
DeMatha's loss ended a nine-game streak of wins at home dating back to last season and dropped them to 15-6. As for Gonzaga, the victory was the fourth in a row for them, bringing their record for this year to 19-3.
DeMatha won't have much time to rest: their next match is against the Lions at 7:30 p.m. on January 31st. Archbishop Carroll knows how to get points on the board -- the team has finished with flashy point totals in its past four games -- so hopefully the Stags likes a good challenge. As for Gonzaga, they will head out on the road to square off against the Cardinals at 7:30 p.m. on Friday. Bishop Ireton has been dominant on offense recently, as they've racked up an incredible 578 points over their last nine games.
