Dominic Garramone is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Coronado High for AZPreps365

Coronado finished what the Dons couldn't last season.

After blowing early leads to Gilbert Christian a year ago, the Don turned a halftime lead into a 62-56 victory Thursday.

“Last year they beat us both times when we had the lead in the beginning,” said junior guard Dylan Pendleton but “now to fully complete the game it feels great.” 

“It's a big win, they haven’t lost in our region in two years,” said assistant coach Josh Gulleckson.

Senior Wyatt Hayes came off the bench and led the team with 22 points. However, junior guard Daijon Safford said it was “not a surprise, because any one of us can have a day.” 

Along with Hayes, Safford and Pendelton combined to score 51 of the team's total points.

Coach Mitch Armour was animated on the sideline making sure his players were in position on both offense and defense. He can be heard during every possession of the game. 

“His voice can definitely get us hype,” said Safford.

After a slow first quarter, Coronado led Gilbert Christian (13-8, 4-1) 14-7 before Coronado took a 33-28 lead into the half.

With one minute remaining, the score was tied at 56. Pendelton hit two free throws to give the lead to Coronado. And after the Dons stiffened up on defense the Knights had no choice but to foul sending Coronado to the line to secure the win. 

This season has had its ups and downs for the No. 17 Dons but they find themselves at 15-7 overall and 3-2 in the region after ending Gilbert Christian's five-game winning streak. Coronado is currently inside the 3A playoff picture with three games remaining. 

The Dons look to carry this momentum with them as they take on Arizona College Prep Tuesday at in their region.