Temple City vs Monrovia - Rio Hondo League Title

This was definitely Rio Hondo’s game of the season. Temple City (7-2) vs Monrovia (7-2). Both teams tied for first place and one last league game to determine the unanimous league champions. Temple City High School haven’t won a league title in over 10 years and was determined to make history. We had about 30 Alpine Striders come out this night to support the three members (James, Robert & Zach) that played for Temple City High School. Coach Chow (Creighton) also coaches the TC Junior Varsity team. The moment I saw how fast the benches filled up, I knew this was going to be one big exciting game. I have a lot of great game photos in store for all of you so please be patient while the photos load.

The Rams…
Big Robert ready to jump it off.
Monrovia had a squad full of talent and players who can jump out of the building.
James came out stroking on all cylinders hitting the threes.
A Monrovia player hits a half court shot at the buzzer to end the first quarter. The amazing thing was he actually took a real jump shot (didn’t heave or throw it).

Temple City took the early lead and James continued to attack the basket in the second quarter.
Temple City definitely had some crazy and hardcore fans.
Temple City kept on rolling and hitting the threes. Here’s one from Zach…
Monrovia didn’t show much of an offensive threat this night but another close to the half court shot at the buzzer kept them within distance (from the same player again).
Ready for the 2nd half…
Robert did a great job protecting the key…way to take the charge.
Start of the fourth quarter and TC had a controlling lead. Things were looking good and one quarter away from the title.
Check out this cheerleader…I think she did this jump 18 times, nonstop too.
Did I mention it was a packed crowd.
There was no stopping Temple City tonight as they kept attacking the basket and Monrovia couldn’t buy a basket.
The game became a bit rough and out of control as Monrovia started to show their fustration. As a result, referees had to cool off a few players.
Probably the best part of the game was when James went to the free throw line and the fans starting chanting…MVP, MVP, MVP!
This cheerleader definitely had a blast and was so excited she was able to catch the basketball.
Standing ovation as James exits the court.
Time to celebrate!
The final score.
Your 2008-2009 Rio Hondo League Champions, Temple City High School Rams. I wasn’t expecting to take any group or portrait photos and wasn’t well equipped with a wide angle lens, so I had to take two separate shots for the team photo. Sorry guys.
The Alpine Striders family (you can just imagine and paint me in there somewhere). I didn’t even notice when taking this photo but check out the banner on the top right…I wonder who’s the “I” that loves JC45.
TC’s big three and Alpine’s very own. Zach, Robert & James.
The Aquinos.
The future & past league MVPs, James and Jonathan.
Alpine Striders High School Team.
Last but not least…James and Tony.
Congratulations again to Coach Hollinger and the Temple City High School Rams. The drought is now officially over. Good luck in the C.I.F. playoffs. If you’re interested in the game’s recap, here’s an article on the Pasadena Star News: http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/preps/ci_11694780.