Ruiz Leads Marjory Stoneman Douglas Basketball on Senior Night

By: Matt Rothman

Joshua Ruiz, the lone senior on the Marjory Stoneman Douglas boys basketball team, had a night to remember with a season-high 24 points in the Eagles 68-55 win over Everglades High School Tuesday night.

For the past two seasons, Ruiz has played for the varsity team and has become a leader after four seniors transferred from the program. He has been the team’s leading scorer this season, and a big reason for MSD’s four wins.

Head Coach Teddy Lyons said they were proud of him.

“Ruiz has really grown up,” said Lyons. “We’ve challenged him to become a better leader, and he’s showing senior leadership in his play. If you knew his story, you’d know that the kid is an overcomer.

Not to get overlooked, Bradley Golub came out of his shooting slump with four deep three-pointers and finished second on the team in points with 14. For the most part, the Eagles controlled the pace of play. Their ability to speed up the game allowed them to control the pace with their defense in an all-out team win.

Up next, it will be a special night for Lyons with his team taking on his Alma mater in Cardinal Gibbons High School. Lyons recently was an assistant coach and will see his former team Thursday, January 16, at 8 p.m. in Parkland.