The Menlo School boys’ basketball team closed the St. Francis Holiday Hoopfest with a 53-49 victory over El Camino Real-Woodland Hills in La Cañada on Friday.

The Knights finished the tournament with a 2-2 mark after defeating Shalhevet of Los Angeles and ECR in the second half of the tournament, bouncing back after narrow losses to St. Francis (60-57) and St. Bonaventure (53-49), who ultimately played for third place. Long Beach Poly defeated Westlake for the tournament title.

“Menlo showed high levels of heart, character, resilience and determination in navigating an extremely challenging four-game, four-day stretch,” Menlo coach Ben Batory said. “After losing heartbreakers to elite programs St Francis and St Bonaventure, the team gutted through two tough wins against Shalhevet and El Camino Real. We return to Menlo battle tested and battle worn, but also with the proud knowledge that we can compete with anyone.”

Eight scored for the Knights on the final day, and Menlo got contributions up and down the lineup throughout the tournament.

Knights junior Tate Cohen, who averaged 12.3 points and 3.0 rebounds per game, was named to the all-tournament team. Senior Adam Karr was named Player of the Game after posting 11 points on 5-of-8 shooting, and two blocks against El Camino. Sophomore Ethan Zhao finished with 17 points on 6-of-8 shooting, including five three-pointers, and grabbed three rebounds against Shelhevet.​

Senior Sam Reznik closed the tournament with 26 rebounds, 21 points and 10 assists.