By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

East St. John won two of its first three games at this week’s St. Martinsville tournament, and assistant coach Ronnie Smith sees a potential turnaround on the horizon for his 7-10 Wildcats.

Smith said ESJ has shown a much higher commitment to team basketball over the three tournament games.

Those included wins over Breaux Bridge and Cecilia and a loss to St. Martinville over a three day span.

“We finally decided to play together,” said Smith. “Making nice passes, helping effectively on defense…the little things we’ve just been lacking.”

Those little things may have been the missing ingredient in a number of ESJ losses this season. After Sunday’s 61-59 loss to St. Martinville, the Wildcats had lost five games by two points this season.

“After that game, I saw them take it to heart,” said Smith.

“We had a meeting (Monday) morning, and you could see it on their faces. They finally realized what they have to do to finish.”

East St. John led 40-36 after three quarters against St. Martinville, but the hosts rallied in the fourth quarter.

Sophomores Chester Victor and Joe Williams stepped up for ESJ. Victor scored 14 and Williams chipped in 11.

Their play is another reason for Smith’s optimism – each contributed in a big way despite not being focal points in the rotation earlier this season.

“(Victor) is a phenomenal shooter. And Williams plays real big inside, even though he’s only six foot,” said Smith.

“These guys haven’t played much here, but they’ve played plenty of AAU. They’ve got confidence.”

Patrick Gales’ 26 points led the Wildcats over Breaux Bridge, 65-50.

ESJ led by one after a quarter and extended the lead to 10 at the half. Breaux Bridge never could close the gap.

Kalen Henderson added nine for ESJ.

Against Cecilia on Monday, ESJ rallied from a 43-36 deficit after three quarters to nail down a 56-53 win.

“It was all about business today,” said Smith. “The previous loss was heavy on their minds and hearts.”

Gales and D’haquille Williams each scored 11. Rashad Green added nine.