Ka’u relied on the scoring trio of Titan Ault, Andre Carvalho, and Joven Padrigo, made key defensive stops, and had more than enough heart to overcome a St. Joseph opponent that played with a champion’s determination.
The Trojans prevailed over the Cardinals 49-46 in a BIIF Division II tournament play-in game Monday night at Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium, earning their first trip to the postseason.
“I liked how we communicated and secured the win,” Padrigo said. “It just feels great. I’ve never been to the postseason for basketball. It’s my senior year and last year.”
Ka’u athletic director Kalei Namohala is in her seventh year at the Pahala school.