Asano and Kim defeated Michael Hisu and Jeff Nagasawa, the Miramonte League champions out of Wilson Hacienda Heights, 6-2, 6-0, before falling to the Ocean League champions, John Jason and Drew Frieman of Beverly Hills, 7-5, 6-1.
The two matches proved polar opposites. Entering the tournament, Davidson was clear that for his tandem to fare well it would have to be aggressive. That’s what he got from them in the opener.
“They played with a lot of confidence,” Davidson said. “They both played aggressively.
“For them to be successful they have to be aggressive.”
The second match started that way, as well, with Asano and Kim jumping out to a 3-0 lead and leading as late as 4-3, but Frieman and Jason’s comeback scorched all of the Nitros’ momentum.
“We had a lot of chances to win and we couldn’t quite get it done,” said Davidson of his junior tandem. “You could feel the momentum change.”
Lee and Kim were the Prep League’s No. 2 doubles squad as based on league record. They faced off with the Pacific League champions, George Chiu and Hardy Lou of Arcadia. Lou and Chiu swept the match, 6-2, 6-4.
“They were happy they made it,” said Rebels Coach Ron Catano of his senior tandem. “They could’ve played a lot better, but that’s how it goes I guess.”
Still, Kim and Lee were key contributors to a program that made it to the playoffs for the second straight season, something not heard of for Prep tennis in decades.
“I was happy with the season and so were they,” Catano said.
It was much the same for Davidson and his duo, which surprised many in the league as sophomores, advancing to the league finals. That changed this season, though, and Davidson hopes for more positive change during Kim and Asano’s senior campaign next year.
“Last year they were kinda the surprise team,” Davidson said. “This year they had a target on their chest.
“That’s what makes you better.”
“They definitely have improved this year. [We’re] looking for even better things next year.”
