Paul Clarke, STAR Writer

Holland High School began their campaign for the ISSA Western Conference Under-16 Basketball Championship with an easy 13-point victory over Muschett on Wednesday.

Prince Benjamin was the high man for Holland with his seven points, five rebounds and two assists and was complemented by Kevin Edwards' seven-point, three-rebound game.

Both teams played good attacking basketball early in the first quarter, at the end of which they were locked at four-all, but Holland gradually took control through Edwards and Benjamin in particular.

They took turns scoring almost at will as the Muschett defence struggled through the full four quarters.

What was a seven point 14-7 lead at half time became a lopsided 31-18 blowout at the end of the contest, a win that would have pleased the Holland coaching staff as they seek to wrest back the title won last year by Herbert Morrison.

Deandre Stewart was Muschett's top scorer with seven points and three steals, while teammate Akeem Baker chipped in with a useful six points, three rebounds and five steals.

Six teams are competing in the Under-16 category including defending champions Herbert Morrison, Holland, Muschett, St. James High, William Knibb and Cornwall College.

Herbert Morrison, champions also of the Under-19 category will be looking to stave off the challenge from William Knibb, Muschett, St. James and Cornwall College, as they seek to return to the title game and a shot once more at national glory.

Today's matches

U-19: St James vs Herbert Morrison

Cornwall College vs Muschett

U-16: Cornwall College vs Muschett

Herbert Morrison vs Holland