By Beth Pyne (Feb. 25, 2002)

In a game against a loaded Clarke County opponent last Thursday night, the George Mason Mustangs were overwhelmed 77-45 and ended their season with a 9-12 record. Clarke went on to win the Bull Run District Tournament the following evening, trouncing Brentsville 63-44.

Clarke used its athleticism and height advantage to smother Mason with a full-court press, forcing turnovers and providing easy buckets. The Eagles’ relentless scoring attack combined with the Mustangs’ shooting woes resulted in a lopsided half time count of 42-9.

Mason did not quit fighting in the next two quarters, despite the seemingly insurmountable deficit. Playing with intensity and resolve, the Mustangs quadrupled their offensive output and outscored the Eagles by a point in the second half.

Throughout the season, the Mustangs benefited from the leadership of seniors Justin Barrow and Ben Griffin. In the final game of their high school careers, the two put up solid numbers, eight points and six assists by Barrow and 11 points and nine rebounds by Griffin. Averaging 10 points per game, Griffin was named to the All-District Second Team on Friday.

A talented group of eight returning players shows promise for nex year. Juniors Kevin Kuhn, Mark Murchie, Bubba Olson, and Joel Wray will look to build on their varsity experience and lead the team in the 2002-2003 season. Sophomores Evan Hamme, Sean Snider, Reggie Whittaker and Matt Williams all saw significant playing time and are expected to be big contributors as well,