After a 27-point performance in a 86-64 victory over Millikan on Monday, Long Beach Poly senior guard Christian Watson was asked how he felt:
“I’m back,” he said.
Indeed.
On Monday, Watson made his long-awaited season debut after missing the team’s first 10 games due to a left ankle injury.
Against the Rams (6-13), Watson had no problem getting to the basket with his lengthy frame and quickness.
“I am just going to attack,” he said.
Not only was Monday Watson’s return, but it was also the first game for the Jackrabbits (7-4) since being crowned Gold Division co-champions at the Damien Classic on Dec. 29 while Millikan hadn’t played since Dec. 30 due to COVID-19 issues.
The Jackrabbits led 22-16 after the first quarter as Watson had eight points and senior Kamaury Washington had eight for the Rams. The first half was filled with turnovers as both teams adjusted to being back on the court.
“Sloppy,” Jackrabbits coach Shelton Diggs said.
The Jackrabbits increased their lead in the second quarter as senior guard Gabe Cummings had 13 points in the second (including three 3-pointers) and he finished with 25 points.
Poly led 45-32 at the half.
“We were sharp on defense,” Diggs said. “We are getting healthy so I can’t complain.”
Watson went full attack mode in the third quarter with 10 points and Diggs said the team is “different” with him back.
However, both Diggs and Watson said the senior was a little tired during the game.
“I am just going to continue to condition and ice (ankle),” Watson said.
Washington led the Rams with 25 points.
Millikan next hosts Compton on Tuesday while Poly welcomes Wilson on Wednesday.
