Prep Basketball : Southern Section Boys’ 4-A : Dominguez Gains Final on 68-46 Win

The Dons of Dominguez jumped to a 26-9 lead and never looked back as they beat the Buena Bulldogs, 68-46, in a Southern Section boys’ 4-A basketball semifinal Thursday night at the Long Beach Arena.

The Dons now have a chance at their first Southern Section championship when they meet unbeaten Glendale Saturday night.

Dominguez did mostly everything right as it dominated the boards and beat the Bulldogs to the ball with regularity.

The Dons’ full-court press was a big reason they had such success. Buena was unable to maintain any momentum, often turning the ball over before they got down court.

The Dons’ balanced scoring attack was led by senior forward Curtis Williams, who finished with 19 points, shooting effectively from outside and inside, and was strong on the boards.

Forward Michael Moore had 13 points for the Dons but had to leave the game with an ankle injury and is questionable for Saturday’s final.

Buena had only one player in double figures--forward Lance Hammer with 16 points. Hammer also had 11 rebounds, although Buena was outrebounded, 34-27.

Down by 17 at the end of the first quarter, Buena had its work cut out. The Bulldogs were able to fight back and get within 10-points with 3:35 left, but out of desperation they committed several fouls that the Dons turned into points.

Dominguez guard Terrance Pope scored five of his 10 points in the last three minutes, three from the line.