The Top-Hi boys basketball team passed three more difficult tests earlier this month, defeating three playoff-caliber teams to keep its undefeated record intact.
First, the Wildcats came back from 16 points down in the second half to beat Ephrata in double overtime on Jan. 14. They followed that up with weekend victories over Selah and East Valley, adding to their perfect record of 13-0 in the CWAC.
After beating Grandview at home on Jan. 25, the Wildcats are now 16-0 overall (14-0 CWAC), enjoying their best start in years.
Much of the credit can go to seniors Matt Ramirez, Manuel Felan and Isaac Perez, but a trio of underclassmen also have been making their presence felt.
Sophomore post Jason Grant has been a double-double machine, while sophomore Riley Mesplie has provided consistency on both ends of the floor. Freshman Josh Perez also has been making the most of those opportunities, including the highlight of the season on Jan. 7, when he drained a last-second three-pointer to give the ‘Cats a two-point win over Zillah, last year’s Class 1A state champions.
Sophomores Adam Myers, Mario Larios and Freddy Robledo have been making regular contributions as well, along with senior Nick Garza.
The Wildcats will try to make it 17 in a row Friday at Prosser, a team they defeated in overtime back on Dec. 21. They will close out league play with Wapato, Ellensburg and Quincy as they prepare for the CWAC district tournament, which begins Feb. 10.
Yakima Valley Sports Network 