Both programs seem to be heading in different directions currently, as Scottsdale Junior College (5-4, 2-1) won their second game in a row on Saturday evening, while South Mountain (6-3, 0-3) would lose their third game in a row. After leading at the half, Scottsdale would outscore South Mountain 57 to 41 in the game's second half to post almost 100 points in their win - 99-72.
Scottsdale JC head coach Mark Bunker has worked very hard to build a program at Scottsdale. With limited resources, the Chaparral High School graduate has done an excellent job of putting a team on the floor that will now compete every night. His team did more than compete on Saturday evening, as they would roll past host South Mountain, last season's ACCAC D-II regular season champs.
After taking a 42-31 lead at the half, 6-foot-5, 200-pound sophomore forward Marcus Jarrett (pictured) would take over in the second half. Jarrett would convert a barrage of baskets to blow the game open. A mid-range jumper by Jarrett, a three-pointer and then another 18-foot jumper by him would give Scottsdale Junior College a 53-33 lead with 15:05 to play in the game.
After a three-pointer from 6-foot-1 freshman guard Malik Simmons from the corner, Scottsdale would take a 56-35 lead with 14:13 left to play in the contest. Scottsdale would then cruise to the big road win, 99-72.
Scottsdale placed four different players in double-figures, led by a game-high 22 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists from 6-foot-1 freshman guard Kenneth Melvin. They also got a big game from 6-foot-3 sophomore guard Isaiah Easaw who finished with 18 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists. Malik Simmons and Marcus Jarrett both finished with 15 and 14 points respectively.
