At the OSAA 6A Boys Basketball State Tournament,the unexpected happened. As the teams readied for the confrontation between Sam Barlow High School and Jesuit.
Sentori Martino, a senior from Sam Barlow High School, was withdrawn from the game when he was accidentally kicked in the head by a backflipping cheerleader during pre-game introductions on Thursday.
Crazy incident this morning before Barlow’s consolation matchup with Jesuit at the OSAA 6A boys state tournament. Bruins senior Sentori Martino inadvertently kicked by a cheerleader.
Unfortunately, he did not play in the game. pic.twitter.com/7g3zS9nAov
— Chris Clayton (@1ChrisClayton) March 9, 2024
Martino fell to the ground writhing in pain as his teammates watched in shock. The player was immediately surrounded by his distressed teammates and medical personnel.
The incident was not only unfortunate due to Martino’s injury but also because it happened during the State Tournament.
Martino, a two-sport athlete at Barlow, was named a First Team All-League wide receiver and cornerback in 2023.
Despite this unfortunate incident and Martino’s absence, the Barlow Bruins managed to secure an emphatic win.
They registered a 69-39 victory over Jesuit. As of Saturday’s game against Grant, Martino was still recovering and unable to contribute on the court.
Despite this, the Bruins again showed their prowess and registered a significant 61-58 win, cementing their fourth place in the state tourney.
Boys Basketball Consolation Champions! 4th Place in State!
Barlow 61
Grant 58#GoBruins #opreps @BarlowPride @OSAASports pic.twitter.com/8RttQ1KFX5— Sam Barlow Athletics (@GoSamBarlow) March 9, 2024
The high school senior, who has been an instrumental part of his team, has committed to Sierra College, a CCCAA Class A Juco football program, as a wide receiver.
Despite the current setback, Martino’s future in sports looks promising.
