by Ethan Piechota

After a strong 5-0 start, the St. John Bosco Braves basketball team headed up to Sacramento to play in the Fr. Barry Tournament at Jesuit High School, where they would take on top-ranked teams across the state. 

The Braves beat St. Mary’s by 26 points to start off their tournament run, a great all-around team win with seniors Chris James and Jonathan Salazar both scoring 14 apiece to lead the way. Everyone contributed as the Braves coasted to a victory.

Bosco then took on Mitty in the semifinals, a close, down-to-the-wire game. They ultimately came out on top, winning 61-54 with James leading the way with 20 points.

Bosco was tested in this one, and responded well to the challenge as they advanced to the tournament championship game with the win.

They capped off their impressive overall tournament with a 85-69 win over Sherman Oaks Notre Dame in the finals, as Jonathan Salazar exploded for 36 points on his way to winning the MVP of the tournament.

Chris James and junior guard Josh Camper also made All-Tournament teams in recognition of their great play throughout.

After the championship game, James received his first official Division 1 offer from UC Davis, so congrats to Christian.

The Braves are now 8-0 and will host the Bosco Classic this week, inside the Thunderdome. They take on Rancho Dominguez High School tonight at 7:30 PM, and will need support from their fans in their first home game of the year.