Val Gonzales
ASU Student Journalist

Hard work pays off for Northwest Christian

February 19, 2019 by Val Gonzales, Arizona State University


Crusaders get ready to meet Paradise Honors Tuesday. (Photo by Val Gonzales/AZPreps365)

Dedication and hard-work.

These are the reason behind the Northwest Christian’s

journey to the state quarterfinals where the Crusaders

play Paradise Honors (16-3) Tuesday.

“Playing hard and not giving up is how we stay in

games,” said coach Jason Cook. “Last game we were

down 13 at halftime and came back to win it.”

Call them The Comeback Crusaders. “There’s been multiple times this year that we were

down at halftime but we come out, we work hard, never

give up and end up winning the game,” said junior

Cameron Adams

Dylan Abraham, Eddie Van Sant and Cameron Adams

are the leaders.

“Dylan Abraham has really come to life in February, he’s

been playing very well and working hard,” said

Cook. “Eddie has been playing well. Cameron was hurt

in the beginning but he’s been a big spark for us.”

They have carried the Crusaders to a 13-5 record.

“We just try to lead when we can, make shots when

needed and try not to turn it over,” said Abraham

Van Sant added, “We work together, knock down shots

when we can and lead on the floor.”

Paradise Honors is next.

“I believe we have a chance. These guys don’t get

intimidated… they just play their game,” said Cook.

 “We don’t get intimated by height or talent, we just go

out there and play our game,” said Van Sant.

Adams added, “We haven’t been scared of a team all

year, we’re going to prepare like any other team.”