The Pahrump Valley High School Trojans boys’ varsity basketball team delivered one of its most complete performances of the season on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, pulling away early and never looking back in a commanding win over Polynesian Basketball Academy from New Zealand at the HBCU High School Basketball Holiday Jam, presented by “Fearless” Freddie Banks and held at Valley High School.
Pahrump Valley set the tone right from the opening tip, applying full-court pressure and forcing early mistakes. After the Polynesian side opened the scoring at the free-throw line, the Trojans responded quickly with a corner three from Caden Briscoe and a strong finish inside by Keir Sheppard to take control. Lucas Gavenda added a driving basket, and Sheppard followed with another three from the left corner as Pahrump Valley built a 10–1 advantage.
Defensive intensity continued to fuel the offense. Late in the first quarter, TC Hone converted a half-court layup through contact, helping the Trojans take a 12–6 lead into the break.
The second quarter showcased Pahrump Valley’s depth and ball movement. Trae Plein attacked off an inbound play and dished a behind-the-back assist to Gavenda for a layup. Gavenda continued to score in transition and in the half court, while the Trojans’ press produced back-to-back steals that led to points at the free-throw line and on quick finishes. A deep three from Gavenda, followed by a smooth drive from Sheppard, pushed the lead to 30–12.
As the half wound down, the Trojans poured it on. Gavenda capped a fast break with a half-court layup, Plein added another basket inside, and Sheppard drilled a deep three from the left wing. Pahrump Valley went into halftime firmly in control, up 37–17.
The momentum carried into the second half. A press breaker from Gavenda to Plein led to an early basket, and Sheppard followed his own blocked shot for another score. Sam Mendoza knocked down a deep three from the top of the key, then finished a steal with a half-court layup as the Trojans extended their lead to 48–22. Aydon Veloz added a pair of strong plays on both ends, including a kick-out assist for a three and continued defensive pressure.
In the third quarter, Levi Denton opened the scoring with a three from the top of the key, and Plein later answered with another three as Pahrump Valley continued to trade baskets while maintaining a comfortable cushion. The Trojans’ balance on offense and relentless defense kept the international squad at bay as the score moved to 67–33 late in the period.
Head Coach Toby Henry praised his team’s performance following the win, saying, “Saturday we played our best game of the season. Our guys played well and played as a team. It was a great win for us.”
The victory served as a strong statement for Pahrump Valley at the Holiday Jam, showcasing the Trojans’ growth, chemistry, and ability to rise to the occasion against quality competition.
