On Jan. 30, CHS varsity boys’ basketball lost its Senior Night game to Shalhevet, 47-61, bringing the team to a 17-9 record, third place in the Marmonte League.

Both teams started the game relatively slow, with the first quarter ending 9-12 in favor of Shalhevet. The Coyotes kept it close throughout the second quarter, highlighted by an emphatic crossover three from starting senior point guard Gavin Murphy. Murphy played nearly the entire game and dropped 31 points, making up most of the team’s total points. 

Nonetheless, Shalhevet went on a scoring run and upped the deficit to eight points, ending the second quarter with a score of 20-28. Despite open looks and great chances, Calabasas was unable to make most of its shots.

“We could definitely improve on getting better shots on offense,” said Assistant Coach Eric Bell. “Defensively, communicating, getting back on defense, walling up, taking charges [could be improved].” 

Shalhevet began to run away with the game at the beginning of the third quarter, scoring seven points within two and a half minutes and establishing a thirteen-point lead while continuing to halt Calabasas’s offensive attempts. 

The Coyotes closed to within three by the end of the third quarter when they changed up the pace on offense. Murphy was fouled twice and made all four of his free throws. The comeback was short-lived, however, with Shalhevet scoring ten unanswered points in four minutes and putting up another fourteen points to end the game. The Coyotes were held to thirteen points for the entire fourth quarter. Despite the disappointment of loss, team members find solace in the relationships they have built.

“We’ve had a lot of injuries this year,” said senior small forward Niko Lobos. “Our bond is helping us get through these tough times we’re having. All the coaching staff always showing love, support, and teaching us, it doesn’t get better than that.”

On Feb. 2, the Coyotes will play Agoura at CHS in the final game of their season.