The CIF quarterfinals game between the Quartz Hill Rebels and the Moorpark Musketeers was an action-packed and excitement filled game. The Musketeers stirred up quite the anticipation, especially with their star player Drake London, a USC commit. London averages around thirty points per game, and because of this, many players on the Rebel team were nervous. However, this did not prove to be an obstacle, as the Rebel team was able to defeat Moorpark in a very close game, with a final score of 58-56.

The game started off with London scoring five points within his first two touches. This made the Rebels and the crowd a little anxious. However, the Rebels did not lose hope and quickly caught back up to the Musketeers, ending the first quarter with a score of 17-15, with the Musketeers in the lead.

The second quarter was filled with tension as the two teams continued to go head to head in their scoring. A particular play from London caused the Rebel crowd to grow in excitement and fear: the player was able to catch a lob from his teammate and dunk it. Fortunately, the Rebels were able to score immediately afterwards and gain back the support of the crowd. The first half ended with a score of 30-30, rousing the crowd in the gymnasium.

The tension between the two teams immediately began once the players came out after half time. London dropped a three right away; however, Josiah Taylor, a junior at Quartz Hill, was able to make a reverse layup, amping up the crowd. Both teams had players that were stepping up in times of need, and this one particular player on the Rebel team was Shemar Fisher.

Fisher was able to hit several three-pointers, which helped the team regain confidence. When asked if he was nervous towards the end of the game, Fisher stated, “At first I was, but then I started to hit some three’s and I started to settle down.”

During the final few minutes, the Rebels were able to get London fouled out. This was important, as London had scored 29 points and was sure to have scored more. With the other team’s best player out, the Rebels could catch up to the Musketeers.

The final minute of the game was filled with intensity as the Rebels trailed the Musketeers by two. Fisher, however, was able to bring the Rebels ahead by hitting a very crucial three-pointer. The Rebels then proceeded to make a free throw, extending the lead by two points . However, the Musketeers answered back with two free throws of their own, bringing the score to 56-56. In the final 11 seconds of the game, the Rebels were fouled and missed their free throws. However, Quartz Hill was able to grab the rebound, with Alaijian Russell making the layup to win the game.

With this win, the Rebels advanced to the semi-finals, where they faced and were defeated by Pacifica Christian. Although this unfortunate loss remains, the Rebels have an opportunity to finish their season off strong by playing in the state playoffs. We look forward to supporting our Rebel team.