BOYS' BASKETBALL: SAUGUS STICKS TOGETHER CENTURIONS BOND IN TRAGIC TIMES.

Byline: Vincent Bonsignore Staff Writer

By winning two consecutive games after the tragic deaths of teammates Robert Smith and Sheldon Bell two weeks ago, Saugus is showing what a tightly knit team it is.

Centurions coach Jeff Hallman isn't surprised by how the players have rallied together in the face of such adversity.

``I told my coaches that I've never seen a group of kids recover the ways these kids have,'' Hallman said. ``I'm extremely proud of them. But being close is something we worked on before this tragedy, and that's something that's helped them pull through the way they have.

``They've been there for each other and pulled each other up. And they realized how important they are to one another.''

Nevertheless, by beating Hart on Tuesday and Burbank one night later, the Centurions (12-8, 5-0) proved what type of resolve they had.

The Hart game, always an emotional affair, was a difficult game to get through, which made the game against Burbank that much more difficult.

``We were emotionally drained, it was obvious,'' Hallman said.

The Centurions prevailed against Burbank in overtime. They'll play Valencia tonight.

``We managed to fight our way through the emotions to get the win on Wednesday,'' Hallman said. ``Again, it shows what this team is all about.''

Saugus is getting leadership from senior Mark Holmquist, whose experience helps Saugus on and off the court.

``It's something you come to expect from a four-year starter,'' Hallman said.

A surprise boost has been provided by Michael Jones and Kevin Valle.

``They've both done a great job,'' Hallman said.