The George Mason High School boys basketball team is having their best season of the past three years. After starting 2-2, the Mustangs stepped up their game and have won nine of 10, holding an 11-3 overall record on the season.
“I am very pleased with the season so far,” head coach Chris Capannola said. “All the credit goes to the players; these guys know we can be really good and are acting like it.”
The last two wins were important for the Mustangs, placing them at the top of the Bull Run District. First, Mason beat Clarke County High School in a tough game, winning by three, 42-39, last Wednesday. The Mustangs played from behind untill the fourth quarter, but were able to pull off the victory.
“We have won games in a lot of different ways, by jumping out to big leads, coming from behind late, holding on in close games,” Capanolla said. “It’s a mentality the kids have that ‘we will get it done, no matter the circumstances’.”
Junior Jeremy Stewart led the team with 19 points and three steals. Classmate Nate Ogle tipped in six rebounds and four points. With the win, Mason jumped past Clarke and took first place in the district.
After taking down the Eagles, the Mustangs faced the Rams on Friday. Mason beat Strasburg High School, 69-44, improving their record to 5-0 in the Bull Run. Stewart paced the offense with 18 points, followed by senior Francky Andrianarison’s 13 points.
With the past two wins, Mason is heading to a strong end of the season. The Mustangs will host the next three games on the schedule.
“We know that we aren’t good enough to simply walk on the court and win, but we also know that if we can outwork our opponent, and play solid defense that we have the talent to beat anybody we play,” Capanolla said.
Mason takes on Rappahannock County High School this Thursday, Seton School on Monday, Jan. 31 and defending state champions Madison County High School next Tuesday, Feb. 1.
To finish their away games, the Mustangs face the second-placed Eagles on Feb. 3 and the Panthers on Feb. 7. Mason will end the season with a home game against the Rams on Feb. 8.
