San Marcos' Christian Mkpado takes a contested shot on Tuesday.
It was a free throw fest at the Thunderhut on Tuesday night, as San Marcos’ boys basketball team scored nearly half of its points from the charity stripe in a 50-36 victory over Oak Park.
“We came out with a little bit of first-game jitters, I think, but we were really able to pull it together,” said Johnny Manzo.
The Royals overcame their “first-game jitters” in the first half by converting 14-of-16 foul shots. For the game, San Marcos took 28 free throws, connecting on 23 of them.
Manzo took a team-high 13 foul shots and made 11. He added two field goals for 15 points to go with nine rebounds.
“It would have been a little bit tougher game (without the free throw makes),” Manzo said. “We would have had to focus on offensive execution more. Luckily we were able to hold them down to 36 points.”
“We were really happy with our defensive pressure and keeping them from getting to the basket.”
Chad Ridenour posted 11 points, including 9-for-10 from the line in the first half. Ridenour was fouled on two 3-point attempts and drained all six free throws.
Christian Mkpado operated well in the paint, collecting totals of nine points, seven rebounds and three blocks.
San Marcos is looking for another big season after winning the Channel League title last season and the team’s fans filled the bleachers in support.
“It’s really big with our fans being here, showing them that we can win our first game. It gets them coming to our games,” Ridenour said.
The Royals led the whole way after staking Oak Park two baskets at the start and held a 23-14 halftime advantage. The 14-point final margin was San Marcos’ largest of the contest.
Next up is the San Luis Obispo Kiwanis Tournament starting on Wednesday.
