Surrey’s Crusaders finish 3rd at girls TBI basketball tourney
Holy Cross Secondary’s senior girls delivered a statement performance at the Langley Events Centre from Dec. 10 to 13. Competing in the Super 16 bracket of the Tsumura Basketball Girls Invitational, Surrey’s Crusaders finish 3rd at girls TBI basketball tourney after three high-paced games in as many days.
Coached by Amy Beauchamp, Holy Cross relied on a balanced attack and hot three-point shooting to stay with some of the province’s top programs. The finish puts the Crusaders firmly on the radar as a contender heading into the rest of the high school season.
Jackson’s 31-point outburst sparks opening win
The Crusaders opened the tournament in style on Thursday, Dec. 11. Guard Solene Jackson erupted for 31 points as Holy Cross rolled past Langley Christian Lightning 83–64.
Four different Crusaders hit from deep, combining for seven three-pointers that kept the Lightning chasing. Chloe Mangalindan added 14 points, while Isla Iannuzzi chipped in 10 to round out a convincing first win.
Iannuzzi leads in tight semifinal loss
In Friday’s semifinal, Holy Cross ran into the Argyle Pipers Green, who would go on to win the entire tournament. The Crusaders pushed them but ultimately fell 72–60 in a game that still showcased the team’s firepower.
This time, Iannuzzi took centre stage, pouring in 30 points and knocking down six threes to keep Holy Cross within striking distance. Jackson added 10 points, but Argyle’s depth and late-game execution made the difference.
Bounce-back win secures bronze
Surrey’s Crusaders finish 3rd at girls TBI basketball tourney thanks to a strong response in Saturday’s placement game. Facing the Seaquam Seahawks from North Delta, Holy Cross controlled the tempo and closed out a 74–47 victory to claim third place.
The result capped an impressive three-game stretch and gave the Crusaders a confidence boost against regional rivals. It also showed their ability to regroup quickly after a tough loss, an important trait with league play ramping up.
About the Tsumura Invitational
The Tsumura Basketball Girls Invitational is one of B.C.’s premier high school showcases, founded and organized by veteran sports journalist Howard Tsumara. Hosted each year at Langley Events Centre, the event draws many of the province’s top-ranked girls teams for four days of elite competition.
For Holy Cross, having Surrey’s Crusaders finish 3rd at girls TBI basketball tourney sends a clear message. The Crusaders not only belong in that elite mix; they are ready to challenge for more hardware as the season moves toward playoffs.
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