With less than four minutes remaining and the momentum firmly in Highland’s favor, Beverly Hills High School appeared headed for a hard-fought loss Saturday afternoon in Palm Springs. Instead, the Normans delivered one of the most memorable performances of their season.
Down by 11 points late in the fourth quarter, Beverly Hills surged back with a relentless defensive effort and a series of poised offensive possessions, erasing the deficit and pulling ahead in the final moments to defeat Highland High School of Palmdale at the Rancho Mirage Holiday Invitational.
The rally unfolded possession by possession, fueled by composure rather than panic. Beverly Hills tightened its defense, forced key stops, and capitalized on opportunities at the free-throw line and in transition. As the clock wound down, the Normans seized the lead and held on through the final whistle.
The victory improved Beverly Hills to 10–2 overall and 2–0 in tournament play, a reflection of both the team’s growing confidence and its ability to respond under pressure.
The game was played before a packed gymnasium filled with families and supporters of both the varsity and junior varsity programs. As the comeback gained momentum, the energy in the stands rose in tandem with the intensity on the court.
Steve Lawson, director of athletics for the Beverly Hills Unified School District, described the win as a defining moment for the program.
“Our boys showed exactly what it means to compete with heart, discipline, and school pride,” Lawson said. “Victories like this don’t just build records; they build culture. This program is rising, and the work behind it is real.”
The Normans will return to the floor Monday and Tuesday as the tournament continues, looking to build on the momentum generated by a comeback that may resonate well beyond the holiday break.
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