As girls middle school basketball point guard Dalya Offer scored a three-point shot from the top of the key, the first points of an eventual CESJDS blowout, it was clear the home team was in control. Offer was one of a multitude of Lions scorers who helped propel the team to an eventual 41-21 victory over the Kendall Wildcats.

Led by a determined defense, the Lions built a large lead early on in the game, exiting the first quarter ahead 15-4. The Wildcat offense was aggressive, earning multiple trips to the line, but was unable to capitalize on early scoring opportunities.

The second quarter came with different playing styles from both teams, as the Wildcats knocked down their open shots and began to tighten their early point deficit. The JDS offense came out a bit stagnant after a scorching first quarter but was able to regain their composure as the half came to a close, letting them hold onto their 27-11 lead.

The second half showcased the Lions’ depth, as they were provided with scoring from a variety of players. Sixth-grader Bianca Diamond lead the way as an instant scoring threat off the bench, making back-to-back shots to begin the third quarter. The Lions seemed to be on cruise control as the fourth quarter approached, entering the final period with a 35-13 lead.

According to Coach Brett Kugler, the team’s high scoring revolved around their commitment to the defensive end and that the two are closely related.

“Our offense is predicated on our defense,” Kugler said. “We try to make sure that we are in all the passing lanes, and we play smart aggressive defense that does not allow our opponents to advance the ball.”

Offer echoed Kugler’s remarks when asked about the key to the victory.

“We set the tone defensively really well because we were setting traps and anticipating passes,” Offer said.

The game boosts the Lions’ PVAC record to 4-1 this season and they look to build on this victory as they take on their rival, the Melvin J. Berman Hebrew Academy Cougars, in their next game at home next Wednesday.