Muir Wins Pasadena Rose City Classic

The John Muir High School Mustangs prevailed in the Governor's Division of the Pasadena Rose City Classic, crushing the Freemont Pathfinders in the finals, 58-49. Muir remained undefeated (4-0) throughout the tournament.

The event was a success for Muir on two counts- the Rose City Classic was also the first in-season basketball tournament to be held in the history of the school. The Governor's Division was hosted by Muir, while the President's Division was hosted by Pasadena High School.

The tournament was scheduled for November 28 through December 2, right in the middle of a wind storm that swept through the San Gabriel Valley causing long power outages, downed trees and debris that blocked many roads. Still, the players, coaches and parents pressed on.

"Our parents worked so hard in putting this tournament on in conjunction with Pasadena High," said Gamal Smalley, the Mustangs' coach. "...with the weather conditions and dates/locations having to be moved around it was incredible that we were able to pull it off. L.A.C.E.S. High gave us a Friday night location and they were simply amazing in assisting us."

The tournament drew teams from Los Angeles, the San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire.

"Pasadena High Coach Tim Tucker hosted the President's Division and allowed us to partner up with him for our first ever tournament in the history of our school and we are forever grateful, he and his staff were awesome," said Smalley.

Check out video highlights of the tournament above.