GSL boys: Gonzaga Prep turns up intensity in win over University

It’s hard to say that a team unbeaten in league play has been going through a slump, but defending 4A state champ Gonzaga Prep had won its past two games by single digits, a departure from some early season routs.

On Friday, they got back to business.

Anton Watson scored 16 points, Carter Sonneborn added 14 and the Bullpups, rated No. 2 in 4A according to the WIAA RPI system, beat visiting No. 12 University 64-34 in a Greater Spokane League matchup.

“I’m very proud of our intensity and our effort and our attention to detail,” G-Prep coach Matty McIntyre said. “We finally have five guys functioning as one.

“It was good to see the team improve after a couple of games where we weren’t at our best.”

G-Prep (14-2, 10-0) reeled off the first 19 points, with guard Jacob Parola gathering a pair of inside baskets, and the Bullpups led 21-5 after one quarter.

Sheadon Byrd scored seven points in the second quarter and Sonneborn added six while the G-Prep defense didn’t allow a field goal and the Pups led 46-12 at intermission.

“(Sonneborn) was so aggressive and so assertive,” McIntyre said. “He was confident with his moves. I think that should be a good confidence builder moving forward for him.”

Watson picked up six points in the third quarter and the Pups’ lead hit 40, prompting a running clock. G-Prep’s starters sat the fourth quarter.

Marcus Lenker led University (11-5, 6-4) with 13 points.

Central Valley 66, Shadle Park 54: Kyle Clay and Jayce Simmons scored 14 points apiece and the No. 20 Bears (10-6, 6-4) beat the visiting Highlanders (9-7, 2-6).

Josh Wilson added 12 points and Gavin Gilstrap had 10 for CV, which drew even with U-Hi and Ferris (11-5, 6-4) for second place in the 4A race.

Jake Groves led Shadle Park with 19 points and DaMarius Brown added 11.