Gorman gets impressive win vs. San Diego

Nick Christensen

Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2004 | 9:30 a.m.

Bishop Gorman got its last tough test of the 2004 boys' basketkball season Monday, and rode a 15-5 third quarter run to victory against University of San Diego High School at the Nevada Sports Network Classic at Gorman High School.

Gorman survived a late run by University and came away with a 69-60 win, bringing their record to 14-5.

The game was a homecoming for University forward Severin Gates, who moved to San Diego last year to be with his mother. Gates said it was a bittersweet return for him.

"I thought we'd come out with a victory, but it didn't happen right," Gates said. "It felt like I was going to take over, but then I got in foul trouble."

Gates had a quick start, but fouled out with 4:38 remaining in the fourth quarter. He left with 14 points, two rebounds, and a steal in the loss.

Gorman was led by Khalif Watson's 20 points and C.J. Portz's eight rebounds.

University coach Demetrius Laffitte said he knew that Gates was looking forward to Monday's matchup.

"He was ecstatic about it," Laffitte said. "I told him that he can't play too much off of emotions, that he needs to relax and let the game come to him."

On the other bench, Gaels coach Grant Rice said it was nice to see Grant back in his old gym.

"It was a big game for him," Rice said. "But there were no hard feelings at all."

Gates has had a huge impact on the Dons this season. He has contributed 16.3 points a game at San Diego, helping them become the San Diego Union- Tribune's second-ranked prep team in the city. Teammate Rico Tucker is San Diego's second-highest scorer, averaging 29.4 a game.

"Severin's put up some great numbers for us. We're No. 2 in San Diego, and he's a big reason," Laffitte said. "He's averaged nearly 17 points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks. He's put up some awesome numbers this year."

But Monday, it wasn't enough to help San Diego's No. 2 team knock off Nevada's No. 2.

"We've had five losses, and four came to out-of-state teams," Rice said. "These tough tournaments have helped us, really made us tougher. But we have a ways to go. We're a work in progress."