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The St. Bernard’s Crusaders overcame a strong start by the host team in front of a packed gymnasium in the championship game at the Kelseyville tournament on Saturday night.

The Crusaders weathered an early storm and won the game 61-52 to secure their first tourney title of the season.

The victory was the fifth straight for a SB team that is finding its groove, as the Crusaders improved to 7-2.

“What a great team win,” assistant coach Pat Shanahan said. “Kelseyville came out on fire and we had trouble meeting their level of playmaking early in the game.

“The guys weathered the storm in a packed road gym and responded with toughness and determination.”

Once they got going, the St. Bernard’s players played some cohesive team ball.

“We moved the ball well offensively and looked to help each other out defensively,” Shanahan added.

Junior guard Liam Dyer capped three big days in tournament play with another big performance and finished with 22 points, seven rebounds and seven assists on his way to being named tournament MVP.

“Liam continued to lead our team in reading and reacting to the defense,” Shanahan said. “He played such a great tournament and this game was another example.”

Carson Costa and Garrett Shanahan also impressed over the three days and were each named to the all-tournament team after posting double-doubles in the final.

Garrett Shanahan finished with 17 points and 11 rebounds, while Costa added 14 points and 11 rebounds. 

“Carson Costa on the glass was absolutely tenacious,” the assistant coach said. “He has a unique combination of touch and toughness. That was one of the keys to this win and with so many of our other positive outcomes.

“Garrett’s strong moves to the basket and relentless rebounding set a firm tone for our team.”

Trenten Hagler and Luke Brunton each also made some big contributions in Saturday’s win.

“Trenten again continued to work hard on the defensive end of the court, frustrating opponents while also facilitating the offense at point guard,” Pat Shanahan said.

Brunton had a big 3-pointer at a crucial time of the game to slow down a Kelseyville run.