Huskies Lean on Defense, Composure in Challenging Week

The Mammoth Huskies boys basketball team navigated an intense and demanding week of play, continuing to establish itself as a defense-first program. Though the results were mixed, the Huskies’ toughness, composure, and commitment on the defensive end stood out throughout the week.

Mammoth opened the week in commanding fashion on Wednesday, snapping a three-game skid with a dominant 44–19 win over Round Mountain. From the opening tip, the Huskies dictated the game with pressure defense, holding the Knights under 20 points. Elias Ericson fueled the effort with 17 points, six rebounds, and five steals, continuing to prove that his disruptive defense often predicts Mammoth’s success.

* Photo Credit: Tori Newman

Asher Block provided a strong interior presence with six points, eight rebounds, and five blocks, anchoring the paint and altering countless shots. DJ Gray was equally impactful, emerging once again as Mammoth’s defensive specialist. Gray, who leads the Huskies in steals on a nightly basis, consistently harassed ball handlers and turned defense into offense, finishing with eight points against Round Mountain.

Friday night’s home matchup against Boron delivered the most emotional and exciting game of the week. Played at a high intensity from start to finish, the contest tested both teams’ discipline and resolve. The Huskies responded by staying poised and focused, relying on team defense and smart execution down the stretch to earn a hard-fought 38–35 victory in front of the home crowd.

* Photo Credit: Tori Newman

Asher Block led the way with a double-double, scoring 14 points and pulling down 12 rebounds while continuing his season-long dominance as a rim protector. Big man Micah Painter provided a crucial spark inside, dumping in nine points and battling on the glass. DJ Gray added five points and remained a constant defensive presence, disrupting Boron’s rhythm and setting the tone with relentless on-ball pressure.

Saturday saw Mammoth drop a 57–38 decision at home to Lone Pine, ending the Huskies’ four-game home winning streak. Despite the loss, the defensive effort remained steady, and Mammoth received balanced scoring from Block and Ericson, who each finished with 11 points.

The Huskies close the week at 6–5, a record shaped by tough competition and steady growth. With a defense anchored by interior rim protection and relentless perimeter pressure, Mammoth continues to establish itself as a composed, disciplined, and difficult matchup for every opponent on the schedule.