Boys Basketball Finishes Season

Last week, the Boys Basketball team played in the Maui Interscholastic League Division II tournament, where they won their first game then ended their season in the semifinals game with a 7-5 record.

Molokai played against Haleakala Waldorf, winning 54-30 with 27 points from Senior Kaina Adolpho.

“I was proud of our team for coming together and really playing for each other and they were focused and took care of business so that we were able to advance,” said Head Coach Nohea Pangkee.

The Farmers then advanced to the semifinals and faced the host Lanai Pine Lads (10-3). The Farmers played well in a close game but came up short and lost 43-37. Adolpho led Molokai with 16 points.

“What a great game,” said Pangkee. “Win or lose, playing or spectating — that is the type of game that everyone enjoys being a part of. Lanai made some opportune shots and their crowd was great but I thought our team handled the pressure well and I’m proud of the way they fought till the end.”

Long time Lanai Head Coach Jimmy Fernandez felt the same.

“The Molokai Farmers played a solid basketball game,” he said. “They have great coaching and we had to make a lot of adjustments.” The Pedro Dela Cruz Gym was packed and Fernandez was happy to have the hometown support. “Our gym was packed and we had a great crowd and that helped our boys to push through. Both teams always play competitive and are always classy after the game.”

Seabury went on to defeat Lanai 67-56 to win its ninth straight MIL DII title and will represent the MIL as a number three seed in the state tournament this week on Oahu.

“Our young men put in a lot of hard work and it hurts for our season to come to end but I’m glad we went out with a great effort,” said Pangkee.