Boys Basketball: Nighthawks Win, Broncos Lose, American Cancer Society Benefits

Murrieta Valley varsity boys basketball stayed in the race for first place in the Southwestern League by defeating Vista Murrieta in game Friday that was dedicated to raising money for the fight against cancer.

The Nighthawks exploded for 40 points in the first half and never looked back. Kevin Padlo led all scorers with 21 points as he guided the Nighthawks past the Broncos for a final score of 61-43.

Tyler Bilton had 13 points with seven rebounds. Thomas Alexandre scored 11, while Jordan Williams and Mitch Lenhart each had six points. Justin Durham and Talon Watkins scored two each.

The Broncos were led by Spencer Benson and Jacob Perry, who both scored 10 points. Jeremy Zorotovich, Austin Beech and Evan Roberts each scored four points for Vista Murrieta.

Friday's Coaches vs. Cancer game—launched by Vista Murrieta Coach Andy Rucker last year—was the theme of all three Southwestern League matchups.

Coaches wore white sneakers with their normal game day attire, which is part of the suits and sneakers program associated with Coaches vs. Cancer.

Through fund-raising efforts, the teams were able to donate more than $4,000 to the American Cancer Society this year.

"I am hoping to have all of the girls programs in the Southwestern League and possibly getting the Sunbelt League involved," Rucker said. "We want to make this a huge event each year, as this is a personal issue for me and the fact that there is no team, league or association that is a part of this on the West Coast."