Alvarado — Head coached by Brandon Ganske and assisted by Jon Cady, the Italy Gladiators needed a win over Itasca with the victor claiming the district runner-up spot and getting to enter the playoffs as 2-seed and the loser forced to enter bi-district as a 3 seed.

Both teams were already guaranteed playoff appearances but both still had plenty to play for after both teams split victories earlier in district play. Bragging rights were on the line here as well between these longtime rivals.

Behind a 36-point barrage from senior Gladiator Trevon Robertson, Italy left little doubt in this one with the Gladiators, ultimately, winning by 21-points, 73-54. Fellow senior Zain Byers was good for 13-points and freshman Kevin Johnson scored 11-points, as well as, putting on a masterful ball handling display. Nothing fancy, just effective.

Senior sharp shooter, Darol Mayberry put in 5-points including a 3-pointer and former Cat TaMarcus Sheppard added 4-points. Seniors, Bailey Walton and Tyler Anderson each scored baskets as did sophomore Mason Womack. Junior Cody Boyd made his biggest contributions defending Italy’s goal as did freshman David De La Hoya and senior Kevin “Big Agua” Roldan.

Needless to say it was a team effort with each player complimenting Robertson nicely. When you have a teammate in the zone, just get him the ball. It was a solid win for the Gladiators that will face-off against Valley View for the bi-disitrict championship on Tuesday starting at 6:00 p.m. at Saginaw, Boswell High School. Valley View enters the game as 3 seed against Italy who enters as 2 seed and the district runner-up.

Go Gladiators!