The Irvine Valley men's basketball team won the Monterey Bay Classic tournament title on Saturday night.
But even more importantly, the Lasers are starting to find their way. IVC's 51-40 win in the title game over host Monterey Peninsula on Saturday was their third straight in the event and fifth in a row overall.
Irvine Valley improved its record to 6-3 overall.
The Lasers also defeated Feather River, 78-56, on Thursday and Foothill, 84-59, on Friday in the tournament.
IVC raced out to a 33-17 lead at the break against Monterey Peninsula (8-2), which had won seven games in a row heading into Saturday.
The Lasers finished out the first half with a tip in by freshman forward Garrett Andre at the buzzer.
IVC struggled to score some in the second half, but played tough defense, especially down the stretch to hold on for the win.
Sophomore guard Luc Krystkowiak was named the tournament's most valuable player. He finished with 17 points against Monterey Peninsula.
Sophomore forward and captain Josh Walker, who was named to the all-tournament second team ended with 12 points and sophomore guard and captain Aaron Strings, who was named first team all-tournament and played solid all weekend, added five points.
Irvine Valley started the tournament with a 78-56 victory over Feather River on Thursday. Krystkowiak led the way with 18 points and freshman guard Gavin O'Neill added 11 points for IVC.
The Lasers then defeated Foothill, 84-59, on Friday to move into the championship game. Strings paced the squad with 19 points and Krystokowiak added 17 points for the Lasers in the win.
Irvine Valley plays again next Friday, hosting Mt. SAC at 5 p.m.
Fans are welcome with social distancing, but masks are required.
The game will be streamed live at (20+) Irvine Valley College Athletics | Facebook
