Local boys’ basketball teams make strong impressions during holiday tournaments with multiple wins and standout performances
Coral Springs, Florida – Local boys’ basketball teams made a strong showing during holiday tournaments, giving fans plenty to celebrate during the school break. Coral Glades, Coral Springs High School, and J.P. Taravella all put together impressive performances in separate competitions, racking up wins and showcasing standout individual efforts.
Coral Glades and Coral Springs High School competed in the Sunshine State Explosion tournament at North Broward Prep, with both teams finishing the event 2–0. Coral Glades opened the tournament with a convincing 54–31 win over Central Gwinnett High School. Kyle Theophile led the Jaguars with 14 points, four rebounds, and four steals. Donovan Swain and Brandon Pitts each made two three-pointers, combining for 18 points to help secure the team’s first tournament victory.
The Jaguars followed up with a 72–56 win over Southwest High School, led by Jamari Bolden, who scored 21 points. Ali Allahah added 15 points, while Ethan Jean-Louis contributed 11, helping Coral Glades notch their 10th win of the season. “The team is really clicking right now,” said one coach. “Everyone is contributing, and our chemistry is showing on the court.”
Coral Springs High School also had a successful run in the Sunshine State Explosion. In their first game, they narrowly defeated East Coweta High School 68–64. Matt Croissy led the way with a game-high 22 points, while Brandon Ayers added 21 points. The duo combined for five three-pointers, and Jamir Davis contributed 13 points, including three from beyond the arc, helping the Colts hold off a late rally.
The Colts carried that momentum into their second game, topping St. Anne-Pacelli High School 66–59. Croissy poured in 25 points, and Ayers added 15, combining for seven three-pointers between them. Davis chipped in nine points, helping Coral Springs secure their 10th win of the season. “It’s a great feeling when your top players step up like this,” one observer said. “They are making the plays when it counts.”
J.P. Taravella competed in the Palm Beach Holiday Classic and had a strong start, dominating Dreyfoos School of the Arts 92–40. Nick Florea led the Trojans with 28 points, Nelson Soutel added 12, and both Jashayne Lindo and Kymanii Campbell contributed 10 points each. Florea followed up with 29 points in Taravella’s second game, a win over Aubrey Rogers High School. Adrian Diaz knocked down five three-pointers and finished with 17 points, while Campbell added 11.
The Trojans faced tougher competition in their third and fourth tournament games, losing 63–55 to Hialeah Educational Academy and 71–65 in their fourth matchup. Despite the setbacks, coaches said the team gained valuable experience and is looking forward to the new year. “Every game is a learning opportunity,” a coach said. “We are building momentum and learning how to handle pressure.”
Looking ahead, all three teams will resume action in January. Coral Glades is scheduled to face Cardinal Gibbons High School on January 9 at 7:30 p.m. Coral Springs High School will take on Cypress Bay High School, while J.P. Taravella will play Northeast High School on January 6 at 7:30 p.m.
With several standout performances during the holiday tournaments and multiple wins on the board, the local basketball scene is generating excitement for the rest of the season. Fans will be watching closely as these teams aim to carry their success into the new year and build on their momentum.
The holiday tournaments highlighted not only the skill and determination of these young athletes but also the teamwork and chemistry that have propelled them to victories. As the new year approaches, all three schools are looking to continue their impressive runs and compete at a high level throughout the remainder of the season.
