Gonzalez, Monarchs step up when short
- Updated: November 30, 2019
2019 EAST COUNTY PREP GIRLS BASKETBALL
EastCountySports.com staff report
SPRING VALLEY – Sophomore Samantha Gonzalez scored 23 points to lead the Monte Vista Monarchs over the visiting Calipatria Hornets, 45-28, on Friday, to improve to 3-2 on the season.
Gonzalez had 17 points in the first half, including 13 in the second quarter, before knocking down a pair of three-pointers in the third period to help put away the visitors.
“We all work together as a team,” Gonzalez said. “Two of our star players were injured but some of my teammates stepped up. I give props to my teammates who were playing great defense and offense, as well.
Still, the short-handed Monarchs were too much for Calipatria.
Freshman Lina De Leon scored 10 points, while senior Vanessa Braun had six points and five rebounds.
“Once Meadow (Delino) and Destiny (Smith) make their comebacks, I feel like our team is going to be complete again,” Gonzalez said. “I think we are going to be a great team. We need to work on some things but coach (Sabrina Jimenez) pushes us to be the greatest.
“We work hard all offseason, no breaks, nothing, and now all that work is paying off. We got better and stronger and all I am going to say is that the Lady Monarchs are pushing harder every day and I feel like we got stronger and tougher from the offseason into this season.”
It was 9-4 after the first quarter for MVHS, then 27-14 at halftime, thanks to Gonzalez, who made four field goals and five free throws in the quarter.
Gonzalez had nine steals and three assists in the game.
“Sam came out strong today with Destiny and Meadow out,” Jimenez said. “She can take over a game and play with the girls she has around her.
“The refs tonight were calling a very tight game and took us out of our defensive strategy. Vanessa and Maya (Garcia) lead our defense and were able to force turnovers. My freshman, Lina, stepped up and was able to make some noise. Shee came out with a lot of energy and was able to make some big plays. I’m excited to see what this girl continues to bring.”
Sophomore Jaelynn Bocala had four steals and two assists.
MADISON 40, EL CAJON VALLEY 29 – The Warhawks defeated the Braves despite 10 points each from El Cajon Valley freshmen Aniah Deloatch and Ruth Taulanga.
The Taulangas controlled the boards for ECV.
Taulanga also had six rebounds, while junior Fineita Taulanga had seven boards.
The Braves will play at Crawford on Tuesday at 5:30.
