NJB STATE CHAMPIONS

It’s been more than a month since the boys celebrated a big-time victory, but the memories still last today.

The third-grade NJB All-Stars from Newport-Mesa went to Hanford, where they won the state championship. In the title game, they grabbed an emotional victory, defeating Team Niguel-Aliso by two points on April 1.

“The boys had an awesome time,” coach Mike Alvarado said. “At the very end it was like they won the NCAA championship. It was pretty fun to watch. There were smiles, ear to ear.”

The boys from the Newport-Mesa team were assuredly all smiles when they overcame a 15-point deficit to beat Anaheim Hills in overtime.

Along the way, they were led by top scorers Matthew Ctvrtlik and Carson Poivre, as well as point guard Joe Alvarado.

— Steve Virgen