Malden’s Exilhomme (30 pts.) unloads on Everett in season-opening win, 44-39

Junior forward hauls in 17 rebounds; Antoine adds 12 pts., 14 boards in victory

By Steve Freker

Malden knew it would need a big effort from Manicha Exilhomme this season if it is going to be able to accomplish its list of team goals.

The Golden Tornado junior forward certainly answered the bell in her very first opportunity of the new season on Tuesday. Ruling the floor from start to finish, Exilhomme attacked the rim and pounded the boards in a performance for the ages. The three-year varsity starter scored a career-high 30 points and hauled in 17 rebounds to lead the gym in both categories in an exciting, 44-39 win over visiting Everett High on Opening Night for both teams.

“We will be asking a lot from [Exilhomme] this season and she certainly showed what she is capable of doing tonight,” said Malden Head Coach Scott Marino of his junior standout. “It was an impressive night, obviously her best game and one of the top games we’ve had here the past couple of years.”

Along with Exilhomme’s banner night, it was also a solid team win, with Malden teammate Jazairra Antoine chipping in with another “double-double”: 12 points and 14 rebounds. Senior Madison “Maddie” Cook also had a solid game for Malden with her defense, rebounding and passing contributions.

Malden rolled out to a 17-9 lead after the first quarter, with Exilhomme (10) and Antoine scoring every point. Everett came back with a strong second quarter to cut the lead to 23-21 at halftime. The game stayed close the rest of the way, a physical game with lots of free throws.

Everett knocked the lead down to one point on four different occasions and tied the game at 35-35 with 2:31 left to play, after Exilhomme had to leave the game briefly with an apparent calf strain. Exilhomme, who played 31 of 32 minutes in the game, quickly returned and scored a putback jumper off glass for a 38-36 Malden lead. With Malden leading by a point, 41-40, Exilhomme leaped up in between three Everett defenders on Malden’s end and ripped down a rebound with 35 seconds left to play, which basically sealed the game when Malden got fouled and hit two free throws immediately after the big board.

Nicole Damaceno led Everett with 12 points, Katerin Landaverde added eight points.

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Everett (0-1 overall, 0-1 GBL) was right back in action last night (Thursday), hosting Greater Boston League rival Chelsea at 7:00 p.m. at Everett High. Malden was also at home last night (Thursday), hosting Somerville at 6:00 p.m. at the Finn Gym at Malden High.