The Cranston East boys basketball team dropped an 81-58 decision to Cumberland on the road last week as it winds down its regular season.

Although the Bolts grabbed an early lead in the first quarter, the Clippers would catch fire in the second and run away with the victory with a big second half surge. East has been shorthanded as of late with four players going down with season-ending injuries.

“We are down four guys so right now we’re in a place where guys need to step up. They’re playing hard and it will turn for us either this summer or next year once we really get our program underway. We have to be better defensively, we need to take more pride in communicating. The guys are playing hard and doing the best they can do. I give kudos to the guys for not giving up and showing up every day. I’m very proud of what these guys are doing,” said East coach Dave DelFino.

Freshman Mohammed Gueye led the Bolts with 17 points scored while senior Albert Kesse chipped in 10.

DelFino was encouraged by Gueye’s outing and hopes to see him continue to grow as the offseason approaches.

“Mohammed is a very good player and we’re excited for him. He needs to have a really big offseason. We’re expecting a lot out of him and he’s taking on a big role. He’s a great kid, a great student, and if he puts in the work this offseason, gets in the gym, he can be a heck of a player,” said DelFino.

East was slated to play its season finale against Portsmouth on Tuesday, but the results were not available at press time.

Although it was a tough rebuilding season for the team, DelFino is thankful for the seniors for their leadership and helping him ease into his first year as the team’s coach.

“The seniors are fantastic, absolutely fantastic. They’re great kids and great human beings,” DelFino said. “They play their best and try their hardest. We’re going to miss them next year. They’re leaving a great legacy.”