SAMOHI — After losing a tough one-possession Ocean League game last week at Beverly Hills, Santa Monica boys' basketball looked to make a statement on their home court against the Morningside Monarchs.
It all seemed to work out as Samohi ran away with a 79-49 win on Tuesday at home.
The Vikings played aggressive defense the entire night, snatching steals with ferocity and causing turnovers, which led to easy transition buckets.
"That was part of the plan, we just wanted to guard," said Samohi head coach James Hecht. "We were trying to play up-tempo all night."
The up-tempo attack was successful in pushing the pace for four quarters as the Vikings had four players in double figures. Brothers Jordan and Jonah Mathews combined for 30 points.
Samohi starter Chris Smith had 13 points, including the first six of the game, and coming off the bench was Jason Conner with 10 points. The play from these two in the frontcourt, with the Mathews brothers in the backcourt, made for a dominating performance.
Samohi held the lead for the entire duration and outscored Morningside by nearly double in three out of four quarters. The Vikings led 17-9 in the first quarter and remained in control throughout.
Despite leading by 21 points at halftime, Samohi never lost focus. The Vikings remained relentless in pressuring the ball on defense and executing on offense.
"I'm very pleased with the effort, we played a complete basketball game from start to finish," Hecht said.
In addition to having four players in double figures Samohi had two players just shy, with nine points each.
The Vikings spaced the floor, had good ball movement, and got contributions from starters and the bench.
Despite the offensive showcase and forcing many turnovers themselves, Samohi had 11 offensive turnovers and will need to protect the ball better in the playoffs.
With this victory, Samohi improves to 19-6 overall with an 8-1 record in league play.
"We have a lot to be proud of," Hecht said. "We want to win a league title."
Samohi's season finale is scheduled at home for Thursday against Hawthorne, who is winless in league play with an 0-9 record.
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