CORCORAN 

12-26-2003

The Reedley Pirates rode a balanced scoring attack to a 80-53 victory over the Corcoran Panthers in their opening tilt in the 53rd annual Polly Wilhelmsen Tournament in Visalia.   With the victory the Pirates improved their season record to 8-0.
 
The Pirates shrugged off a two point deficit after one quarter to outscore the Panthers 28-14 in the second frame.  During the quarter Abel Lucca canned three three pointers, Jon Wallen scored seven, and Pepijn Dekker six, including four for four from the line, to propel Reedley to a 45-33 half-time advantage.
 
During the second half Darren Minami's crew intensified their defensive effort to stifle the Panthers.  Reedley held Corcoran to 20 points in the half while tallying 35 themselves.  The Pirates' strong effort was inspired by point guard Jon Lepp's aggressive play.  Lepp scored six points and dished out six assists during the half.
 
On the night the Pirates were led in scoring by Lucca with 19.  Dekker added 14 and Colin Hofer contributed 13 with a strong all-around effort.  Wallen and Lepp both reached double digits with 10 points apiece.