Another shot for Montrose

Stu Vetter's Montrose Christian Mustangs are back for the 'Iolani Classic, which tips off tomorrow, but a rugged field might deny them a title again.

Montrose, currently No. 5 in the ESPN Fab 50, has been runner-up in the tourney three times. Kahuku, the favorite to win the Oahu Interscholastic Association, meets Montrose at 8 p.m. on Friday.

Yates (Houston) is 3-0 so far, averaging 130 points per game. The Lions (No. 9, ESPN Fab 50) have their entire starting lineup back from last year's 4A state-title team, which scored 94 points in the final. Their first foe in the tourney is defending Hawaii state champion Kamehameha, which won the James Alegre Invitational last week.

Rough Riders are defensive

Roosevelt has a policy on defense: step up and step into the lane.

The Rough Riders won the Pete Smith Classic last week with wins over Saint Louis, Mililani and host Kalaheo (in overtime). The Roosevelt boys are 4-0 in nonconference play and nowhere close to their potential, but their coach is pleased.

“;Our defense is great right now. We're as fast as any team in the state,”; said Hathaway, noting that Brendan Nakatani and Brandon Mitchell are key stoppers. Roosevelt's specialty is drawing charges.

Kaipo Pale, a 6-foot-5 junior, had 20 points against Mililani.

“;He can take it out and shoot 15 feet, but he gets a lot of points inside,”; Hathaway said.