pointafter_Columbia improving with locals

Jose Blanco knew he tried to do too much for the Columbia College men’s basketball team on Thusrday.

He scored just 11 points in an opening round loss at the Modesto JC Tournament – partly due to nerves going against some old friends on the Pirates’ squad. He also was trying too hard – something Columbia coach Nate Rien said was unlike his leading scorer – but something Blanco had done the last few games.

There was no need to force anything Friday as Blanco effortlessly led the Claim Jumpers with 24 points in a losing effort to Chabot, 76-62. He called for the ball, but didn’t have to the whole game, as Blanco said his teammates did a better job of finding him outside.

“The last couple games they haven’t been finding me as much,” Blanco said. “I haven’t been getting screens from my big men. (Friday) was good. They were finding me and I appreciate that.”

Blanco said the teammate are learning each other’s strengths every day and playing more as a unit. At 1-8, their goal is to keep their heads up and start winning some games.

“He’s finally understanding the system and played in it (Friday),” Rien said. “He’s been forcing things a lot and that’s not characteristic of him.”

Rien was also happy with Travis Vanderwaal, a 6-8 sophomore center from Oakdale.

“Travis did a great job defensively,” Rien said. “He was able to shut down  a lot of their inside play.”

Mike McElroy scored two points, but led Columbia in rebounds (7) and steals (6).