The last boys basketball regular season game for the Mentor Class of 2015 began with the seniors on the floor.
It ended with a lopsided win over Collinwood and a shining performance by a freshman.
Cardinals freshman Caden Kryz knocked down eight 3-pointers and scored 26 points to lead Mentor to a 104-64 rout over the visiting Railroaders on March 2.
“We started the seniors, and Caden hit eight 3s and almost had the school record, so obviously that was great to see, and we wanted to get some momentum heading into the tournament on Wednesday,” Mentor coach Bob Krizancic said.
“Micah (Potter) played very well, and Jack Korsok hit four 3s which he needed for his confidence in a game like this. (Andrew) Valeri got on the floor and continues to get better after his injury. We want to be ready to make a run, and we are looking forward to getting (senior) Joey Zaugg back (concussion).”
Potter, a 6-foot-9 Division I recruit who played in front of Ohio State coach Thad Matta, scored 21 points for Mentor. Korsok finished with 14 and senior Paul Sateika added 10 points for the Cardinals, who had 14 players score. Zaugg – who averages 14.5 points per game – is expected to return for the sectional semifinal on Wednesday.
Mentor finished the regular season at 13-9 and will open tournament play on March 4 at home against Chardon in a Division I sectional semifinal.
If Mentor advances past Chardon, the Cardinals will host the John Adams-Mayfield winner on Sunday, March 8 at 4 p.m. in a sectional championship game.
