BUENA PARK—Facing a Buena Park team with more length and athleticism, Troy coach Aaron Mason knew his team had to limit mistakes and play efficiently in order to come away with the road win.
After watching his players make nearly 60 percent of their shots Wednesday night, he was thrilled with the result—a 58-35 Freeway League victory at Buena Park High.
“They’re so long and athletic, and they move really well in the zone,” Mason said of Buena Park’s players. “When we played them earlier, they killed us. We couldn’t do anything.
“We’re a much better passing team now. We’re a little more aggressive, and we know our roles and our spots.”
Mason was referring to Troy’s 74-62 loss to Buena Park on Dec. 5. This time, the Warriors’ defense was stifling, forcing 41 missed shots and creating 10 steals.
“We contemplated playing zone because they do such a good job of getting downhill and getting to the rim,” Mason said. “The first time we played them, they were dynamite on the boards. We finally adjusted and honored our responsibilities without trying to gamble and play fancy.”
After leading, 12-11, at the end of the first quarter, the Coyotes (15-4, 2-1) scored just 23 points in the game’s final 24 minutes. Buena Park made just one field goal in the third quarter and shot 21.4 percent in the second half.
Center Wenzel Akinboro notched a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds for Troy (12-8, 2-1). Guard Jason Choi led the way for the Warriors with 19 points on 8-for-12 shooting and was able to get to the basket with ease.
“Jason I think is one of the toughest guards in Orange County to stay in front of. He’s such a good finisher,” Mason said. “Jason’s had to learn how to play against a zone, but I thought he played within himself and let the points come to him instead of trying to force it.”
Deontae Beckham and Gianni Michael each scored 10 points to lead the Coyotes.
Buena Park’s loss leaves Sonora as the only unbeaten team in the Freeway League. The Coyotes play at Sonora on Friday. Troy’s next game is Jan. 28 at home against Sunny Hills.
