© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (1-31-08) — West Hills may not consider itself the second-best team in East County, as No. 3-ranked Mount Miguel does own the Inland’s top rung on the San Diego CIF rating ladder.

But the Wolf Pack wants to believe that it is the best team in the Grossmont North League. The Pack may have to wait to prove itself as the GNL champion when it hosts Santana on Tuesday (Feb. 12).

West Hills (19-5), has stumbled only once in its last 11 games and that was a costly 41-37 loss to Santee rival Santana a week ago.

Consider this: Helix slaughtered Santana, 71-40, on Monday (Jan. 28). The Highlanders, however, were unable to continue their momentum against visiting West Hills on Wednesday (Jan. 30) in the final Grossmont Conference crossover game.

The Wolf Pack pounced on the Highlanders for a 21-6 first-quarter lead and then cruised to a 63-49 victory.

“We came out ready to play tonight against a pretty good team,” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “I think we did an outstanding job on defense. I feel we did a good job of keeping BRITTANY WILLIAMS away from the basket.”

While the Wolf Pack did hold Williams to nearly 10 points below her season average at 16 – she made only 8 of 24 shots – they were unable to curb SINOI LEASAU, who scored a game-high 24 points. Leasau did the majority of her damage from the free throw line where she netted 11 of 24 chances.

West Hills nailed 26 of 56 shots from the field (46.4 percent), while Helix was only 17 of 51 (33 percent).

“It’s pretty hard to stop a team when they come into you own gym and shoot the lights out,” observed Helix coach TRINA HANSEN. “West Hills could not miss. It was a pretty even game over the last three quarters. We could never get back into the game (after the first quarter).”

KIMBERLY CLARK led the Wolf Pack with 17 points, including a pair of treys, while MARILYN NADERHOFF nailed 8 of 12 shots for a 16-point finish.

Unheralded CONNIE HINES hauled down a game-high 10 rebounds for West Hills.

“Connie Hines had a good all-around game tonight. She has really picked up her efforts in all phases of the game,” said Kinser.

Not to be overlooked were MARIAH BENNETT and SHELBY RUSSO. The two sophomores combined for 16 points on 7 of 13 shooting, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals and one block for West Hills.

West Hills scoring: Kimberly Clark 17 (3 reb), Marilyn Naderhoff 16 (2 reb), Sherika Miller 8 (2 reb), Shelby Russo 8 (5 reb, 2 ast), Mariah Bennett 8 (6 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk, 3 stl), Corryn Kivett 4 (4 reb, 5 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Connie Hines 2 (10 reb, 2 ast).

Helix scoring: Sinoi Leasau 24 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Brittany Williams 16 (2 ast, 3 stl), Sam Vick 4, Krista Ronning 3, Kami Oliver 2 (6 reb), Nydah Royster (3 reb), Mariah Walker (2 reb), Chanelle McNutt (2 stl).

SANTANA 50, STEELE CANYON 33 – JAMIE ELIAS scored 17 of Santana’s 19 points in the 3rd quarter, finishing with a career-best 23 points as the Sultans came from behind to defeat visiting Steele Canyon in Wednesday’s (Jan. 30) Grossmont Conference crossover encounter.

“Elias was outstanding tonight,” said Santana coach JIM MOTTERSHAW. “This was by far her best game here at Santana. She played well on both ends of the floor.”

“We had only 12 turnovers in the game,” Mottershaw added. “Elias was the ball handler and she had no turnovers.”

Steele Canyon was up 21-17 at halftime, then Santana scored the first 8 points of the 3rd quarter to take the lead for good.

Senior NICOLE BRZECZEK chipped in with 11 points and 7 assists, while LAUREN MUELLER tallied 7 points.

It was not a great shooting day for senior post KAILA SMITH, but she led Santana with 8 rebounds, one more than Elias.

“Our defense was outstanding in the 2nd half,” said Mottershaw, whose 10th-ranked Sultans (17-6) limited Steele Canyon (9-12) to 12 points in the 2nd half. “For us tonight this game was a tale of two teams. We had to call out at halftime for the real Santana team to come and occupy our uniforms in the 2nd half.”

And so they did.

BELINDA PICKENS was the Steele Canyon stalwart, with a double-double of 15 points and 11 rebounds. Pickens made half of her 10 shots from the field and 5 of 8 free throws.

“Belinda hit 4 of 6 free throws in the 4th quarter – she kept us in the game,” said Cougars coach PENNY SMITH.

“We had a game plan going in and we executed it for the 1st half,” added Smith. “Then everyone just started doing their own things. When Elias scored all those points in the 3rd quarter she really got them going.”

“We were up until halftime but KATY SNEW and Pickens got in foul trouble. They really took advantage of our girls being in foul trouble. But it took all the way to the 4th quarter for Santana to do it.”

Santana scoring: Jamie Elias 23 (7 reb), Nicole Brzeczek 11 (7 ast), Lauren Mueller 7, Kaila Smith 4 (8 reb), Alyssa Padberg 4, Samantha White 1 (8 reb).

Steele Canyon scoring: Belinda Pickens 15 (11 reb), Mace Alameri 6, Jazmin Daigle 4, Jackie McGovern 4 (9 reb), G’kia Myles 2 (7 reb).

GROSSMONT 46, VALHALLA 12 – Although she scored only 2 points, Grossmont senior guard TIFFANY TOOSON collected a career-high 12 rebounds in the Foothillers’ rout of visiting Valhalla in a Grossmont Conference crossover contest on Wednesday (Jan. 30).

Reliable senior point guard TINA RIOS added 13 points, 7 assists and 5 steals for the Foothillers, who led 23-6 by intermission.

HEATHER SPRINGE delivered 11 points and 5 rebounds for Grossmont (10-10), which welcomed the return of 5-foot-10 junior post TERRA MUSGROVE.

“We were a little rusty after being off for a week,” said Grossmont coach MARK DeFEDE. “We pressed the 1st quarter and part of the 2nd, then we just worked on our offense.”

Nobody on Valhalla (2-19) scored more than 4 points, although sophomore NICHOLE MILLER did gobble up 8 rebounds and record 3 steals.

“We had four girls out, either ill or injured,” said Valhalla coach JON OWENS. “Then going into the 2nd quarter EMILY ROBERTS got hit in the nose and it’s possibly broken, and within minutes after that LAUREL SCOVIE suffered a split over her eyebrow that may need a stitch.”

Both girls left the game to seek medical attention.

“That left us with one experienced guard and seven active players,” Owens added. “But our girls have a lot of heart – we just keep on playing, win, lose or draw. Every week it’s a different lesson that we learn.”

Grossmont scoring: Tina Rios 13 (7 ast, 5 stl), Heather Springe 11 (5 reb), Terra Musgrove 6, Allison Baxter 6, Chanel Putras 5, Tiffany Tooson 2 (12 reb), Francesca Treadwell 2 (4 stl), Danielle Balderas 1.

Valhalla scoring: Emily Roberts 4 (2 reb), Britney Dollard 3, Tanisha Lee 3 (2 reb), Kelsey Cartmill 2 (4 reb, 2 ast), Nichole Miller (8 reb, 1 blk, 3 stl), Megan Tex (7 reb), Amy Woods (2 reb), Jenn Gold (2 reb).

EL CAPITAN 65, MONTE VISTA 18 – BRITNEY LORING and ASHLEY DUFFY scored 13 points apiece to lead El Capitan to a lop-sided Grossmont Conference crossover game Wednesday (Jan. 30) in Lakeside .

Loring, a 6-foot-1 senior, canned 8 baskets, while Duffy hit a trio of 3-pointers for the Vaqueros (17-6).

Duffy also led El Capitan with 7 steals and 6 assists.

El Capitan built a 31-10 halftime lead before exploding for a 23-6 scoring spread in the 3rd period.

“We were patient, looked for the open person,” said El Capitan coach FRANK QUINONES. “I thought all the girls did very well. I think we’re ready for the 2nd half of the season.”

El Capitan scoring: Britney Loring 13 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Ashley Duffy 13 (4 reb, 6 ast, 3 blk, 7 stl), Samantha Spring 11 (2 ast, 3 stl), Liana Pitman 9 (3 reb, 5 ast), Jamie Ferguson 5 (7 reb, 4 stl), Taylor Autry 5 (3 reb, 5 ast), Ashley Bunce 5 (9 reb, 3 stl), Cresela Banks 4 (2 reb, 2 ast).

Monte Vista scoring: Opal Ross 6, Janay Patton 6, DeAnna Bembry 4, LiAiesha Brandon 2.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (1-26-08) -- Granite Hills knew the secret to stopping San Jose State bound BRITTANY WILLIAMS of Helix.

"We tried to double-team her and take away her dribble," explained Eagles guard SABRINA JIMENEZ. "We knew we had to guard her really well in order to win."

Challenging Williams on every possible occasion Friday (Jan. 25), Jimenez combined with MOLLY HILLENBRAND to break open an even ballgame in the fourth quarter, giving the Eagles sole possession of second place in the Grossmont South League after whipping the visiting Highlanders, 61-57.

Jimenez just missed a triple-double by registering 16 points, 11 assists and 9 rebounds. Most of her feeds went to Hillenbrand, who challenged Helix' post defense to the tune of 22 points and 13 rebounds -- both game highs.

"We're getting better by helping each other in the hard times," added Jimenez. "And with Molly back, if we can rebound, we have a chance the next time we place (GSL leading) Mount Miguel."

The Eagles held small advantages throughout the ballgame, but when Hillenbrand and AMY SYLVESTER left with foul difficulties in the third period, Helix was able to assume a brief lead with several deep passes over the top of the defense.

However, when Hillenbrand and Sylvester returned, Jimenez found all sorts of options to consistently pierce holes in the Helix defense.

"We were rushing and missed so many shots early in the game," noted Hillenbrand. "But when we started making shots from underneath the basket, everything changed."

Changes occured on defense, too, especially when Jimenez took a charge on Helix guard SINOI LEASAU -- the Scotties' top scorer with 14 -- sending her to the bench with four fouls. It allowed the Eagles to fully focus on Williams, who connected on just 6-of-28 shots, missing her final 9 shots from the floor.

More than one Granite Hills player noted it was easy to defend Williams because she showed signs of being unable to dribble with her left hand. Thus, she was unable to penetrate, which left her unable to draw fouls -- Williams never went to the foul line.

Another turning point was actually a negative for Granite Hills, but it transformed into a positive.

After the Eagles took a 43-39 lead early in the fourth quarter, Leasau, then saddled with four fouls, held position and took a close charge call on Jimenez.

Instead of fouling out, the Helix guard got the call. But Jimenez then adjusted her game and looked for open teammates, registering four assists over the final 5 minutes. Sylvester (8 points) also got into the act with two steals and two assists down the stretch.

Meanwhile, LAUREN BENDER scored all of her 8 points in the final period, when the Eagles held a 24-8 advantage to overcome a 39-37 deficit after three quarters.

“We played good until the fourth quarter,” noted Helix coach TRINA HANSEN. “Then we let Granite Hills take control of the game. We didn’t shoot the ball well at all in the fourth quarter.”

Helix scoring: Sinoi Leasau 14 (7 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Brittany Williams 12 (5 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Samantha Vick 7 (2 stl), Becky Almeraz 6 (7 reb), Kami Oliver 5 (13 reb, 3 ast, 2 blk), Tatiana Jackson 3 (3 reb), Nydah Royster (3 reb).

Granite Hills scoring: Molly Hillenbrand 22 (13 reb, 2 stl), Sabrina Jimenez 16 (11 ast, 9 reb), Lauren Bender 8 (5 reb), Amy Sylvester 8 (6 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Sam Silva 3, Kari Hubert 2 (2 reb, 1 blk), Lauren Koblischke 2 (6 reb), Kylee Wilson (4 reb, 3 stl, 3ast, 1 blk).

SANTANA 56, EL CAPITAN 39 – Nobody in East County plays more physical or aggressive defense than coach JIM MOTTERSHAW’s Santana Sultans.

Sure, there are other teams that have more offensive scoring punch, but when it comes down to going head-to-head, Santana’s defense is hard to crack.

Just ask the El Capitan Vaqueros, who visited Santee on Friday (Jan. 25) in a Grossmont North League showdown.

“Give Santana credit, they came right at us,” said El Capitan coach FRANK QUINONES. “They were slashing a lot and I couldn’t believe the two NBA-type 3s that JAIME ELIAS hit. How do you defend that?”

NICOLE BRZECZEK scored a game-high 20 points for Santana (16-5, 4-0 GNL), including 4 buckets from beyond the arc.

“I thought we still had a chance when we were down by only 9 points with 3 minutes to play,” Quinones said. “And then Brzeczek drains a three.”

Santana outscored the Vaqueros 33-20 in the 2nd half.

“We just played hard – both teams played hard,” said Mottershaw. “ El Capitan is a very good team. We made key baskets and played exceptional defense the whole game. It was an outstanding team effort.”

ASHLEY DUFFY topped El Capitan with 15 points, including 7 of 10 free throws.

Quinones was quick to point out that his Vaqueros hit only 13 of 53 shots from the field and only one of 14 from long distance.

“The frustrating part is we missed so many uncontested lay-ups,” he said. “For us it was just a frustrating night.”

Santana scoring: Nicole Brzeczek 20 (7 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Jamie Elias 10 (7 reb, 4 ast), Kaila Smith 9 (5 reb), Kim Gross 7, Lauren Mueller 6, Alyssa Padberg 4 (6 ast).

El Capitan scoring: Ashley Duffy 15, Crisela Banks 8, Samantha Spring 5, Ashley Bunce 4, Liana Pitman 3, Jamie Ferguson 2, Taylor Autry 2. No other statistics were available.

WEST HILLS 39, EL CAJON VALLEY 21 – Despite having two of their key players, SHERIKA MILLER and MARILYN NADERHOFF – absent due to illness, the Wolf Pack overcame a 7-6 first quarter deficit in Friday’s (Jan. 25) Grossmont North League game.

CORRYN KIVETT hit 5 of 7 shots from the field to finish with 11 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 blocks and 2 steals to pace West Hills (17-5, 3-1 GNL) to the come-from-behind victory.

CONNIE HINES grabbed a game-high 10 rebounds and recorded 5 steals to go along with 6 points for the Wolf Pack, which put the game away with a 10-0 third quarter advantage.

“We plugged some people into key spots for key minutes tonight,” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “Fortunately for us, we’ve been able to get our players significant minutes in other games so they were ready to step in and help us. We didn’t play too well offensively, we missed too many inside shots and too many uncontested layups.”

Scoring only 4 points in the 2nd half diffused any thought of an El Cajon Valley (8-14, 0-4 GNL) upset.

“We played really hard for a long time, and we had numerous shots and attempts,” said El Cajon Valley coach RANDY ROBINSON. “We go through that spell where we don’t do anything. When you don’t score it’s hard to keep your chin up.”

West Hills scoring: Corryn Kivett 11 (8 reb, 4 ast, 2 blk, 2 stl), Kimberly Clark 6 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Shelby Russo 6 (2 reb), Connie Hines 6 (10 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 5 stl), Amber Darby 6 (5 reb, 3 stl), Mariah Bennett 2 (2 ast), Danielle Hays 2.

El Cajon Valley scoring: Kelly Wimberly 6, Kaylani Faten 5 (6 reb), Erin Robinson 4, Sheraina Moon 2 (9 reb), Jeena Norwarekar 2, Samantha Julien 2 (7 reb).

MOUNT MIGUEL 90, MONTE VISTA 22 – NICOLE FOUNTAIN scored a career-high 23 points, bolstered by 4 three-point buckets as the Matadors mauled host Monte Vista in Friday night’s (Jan. 25) Grossmont South League encounter.

For Mount Miguel, Fountain has been a fountain of youth, scoring 49 points in her last three games.

Junior DANESIA WILLLIAMSON has been the kingpin in Mount Miguel ’s offensive thrust all season, including a 29-point game against the Monarchs.

“She could have scored 40 if we had let her do it,” said Mount Miguel coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL of Williamson, who also had 8 assists, 8 steals and 4 rebounds along with 5 three-pointers.

AUTUMN SPIKES added 16 points, 6 rebounds and 3 blocks for the Matadors (12-4, 5-0 GSL).

Mount Miguel scoring: Danesia Williamson 29 (8 ast, 8 stl, 4 reb), Nicole Fountain 23 (4 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Autumn Spikes 16 (6 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl, 3 blk), Danielle Miller 9 (4 reb, 4 stl), Trina Clark 8 (2 reb, 3 stl, 2 ast), Cindy Ekweozor 5 (10 reb, 2 stl, 2 blk), Shateara Anderson (2 stl, 3 reb).

Monte Vista scoring: Jill Miranda 11, Janay Patton 4 (6 reb), Alex Ross 3, Ailene Pamintuan 2, Ashley Weatherford 1, DeAnna Bembry (6 reb).

STEELE CANYON 32, VALHALLA 18 – Nobody in this game scored double figures and it wasn’t because the two teams played great defense in Friday night’s (Jan. 25) Grossmont South League game at Steele Canyon.

BELINDA PICKENS and G’KIA MYLES had 9 points and 9 rebounds apiece as the Cougars (8-11, 2-3 GSL) conquered the Norsemen (2-18, 0-5 GSL).

“It was a sloppy game all the way through for us,” said Steele Canyon coach PENNY SMITH. “I thought Valhalla played very well. I’m not satisfied with our overall performance tonight.”

EMILY ROBERTS paced Valhalla with 9 points and 10 rebounds.

“We continue to practice hard and play hard every game,” said Valhalla coach JON OWENS. “We just continue to have trouble shooting. I’ve never been prouder of this team than I am after tonight’s game. They never quit and never gave up.”

Steele Canyon scoring: Belinda Pickens 9, G’kia Myles 9, Katy Snew 6, Yvette Phipps 3, Jazmin Daigle 3, Jackie McGovern 2.

Valhalla scoring: Emily Roberts 9 (10 reb), Kelsey Cartmill 4 (3 reb), Nichole Miller 3 (7 reb), Morgan Gerken 2 (7 reb), Megan Tex (5 reb), Erica Torgerson (3 reb), Kelley Seitz (2 reb), Tanisha Lee (2 reb).

CORONADO 60, CHRISTIAN 11 – The struggling Patriots dropped a Central League game at Coronado on Friday (Jan. 25), pushing their record to 0-20, 0-4 CTL.

Christian scoring: Monique Elliott 5, Jenny Harrison 2, Ali Scott 2, Ricki Gentry 2.

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (1-23-08) -- To finally gain affirmation as a multiple league titlist, it would only make sense that the West Hills Wolf Pack would need to defeat perennial champion Santana to climb the mountain to the top of the Grossmont North League.

But the Sultans offered the visitors just one opportunity to add to its trophy case, which features just a single GNL crown (2003).

Despite opening Tuesday's (Jan. 22) contest converting just one of its first 14 shots, Santana held a slight advantage the rest of the way to stump the 9th-ranked Wolf Pack, 41-37, when point guard NICOLE BRZECZEK single-handedly took over the fourth period.

"We put all out in the fourth quarter and controlled the ball," said Brzeczek, a senior probably headed to Hawai'i Pacific. “The team created opportunities to run."

Brzeczek seemingly converted every big play over the final eight minutes, when she scored 7 of her game-high 17 points. But it was much more than her point production.

Brzeczek registered 5 assists in the quarter -- the other 9 players on the court for both teams combined for the same total. Brzeczek also grabbed 6 of her game-best 12 rebounds in the period -- the remaining 9 teammates had just 8 boards.

"We knew our opponent's strengths and took advantage of their weaknesses," added center KAILA SMITH, who collected 6 points, 11 boards and blocked 3 shots. "We really wanted it on defense, which led to our offense."

The defensive struggle saw Santana rally from an 8-2 deficit at the end of the first quarter to hold a slim 21-20 lead by scoring the final 6 points of the third period. Then the contest opened up when the 5-foot-6 Brzeczek took control on the boards, leaving the tiring Wolf Pack unable to grab their usual staple of second-chance points from offensive rebounds.

"We took them out of their game," added Brzeczek. "Then we slowed it down and made them play defense unless we had the opportunity to run."

West Hills guard MARILYN NADERHOFF finished with 7 points and 6 assists, while the team blocked four early to limit Santana to just 2 points in the first period.

West Hills scoring: Kimberly Clark 10, Sherika Miller 9 (7 reb), Marilyn Naderhoff 7 (6 ast), Mariah Bennett 5, Corryn Kivett 4, Connie Hines 2.

Santana scoring: Nicole Brzeczek 17(12 reb, 5 ast), Jamie Elias 11, Kaila Smith 6 (11 reb, 3 blk), Mikaela Samuels 5, Alyssa Padberg 2, Lauren Mueller (3 ast).

Williamson’s superlative effort went on to include 7 steals and 5 rebounds.

“Obviously Danesia is a great offensive player,” said Granite Hills coach JERRY PARKER. “But she may be even a better defensive player. Let’s just say she’s a complete player.”

Granite Hills (14-8, 3-1 GSL), which was playing without senior standout MOLLY HILLENBRAND, was never in contention as the Matadors led 21-10 after one quarter and 38-24 by the break.

AUTUMN SPIKES rolled a nifty double-double of 14 points, 11 rebounds, 2 blocks and 2 steals for the Matadors who also received another scoring lift from NICOLE FOUNTAIN of 10 points.

Not to be overlooked was the double-double of CINDY EKWEOZOR, who coined a perfect 10, as in points and rebounds.

SABRINA JIMENEZ, who was the focus of Mount Miguel ’s defensive attention, burned the Matadors for 20 points. The 5-foot-11 sophomore attacked Matadors both inside and out – hitting a trio of treys and 7 of 12 free throws.

“Sabrina did a really good job,” said Parker. “For her to score 20 points is a credit to her as she had to work for every point she got.”

“ Mount Miguel did a good job of taking us out of our offense. We did more free-lancing than we have in any game this year. And that’s what good teams do – they make you go to your second and third options.”

Mount Miguel scoring: Danesia Williamson 20 (15 ast, 7 stl, 5 reb), Autumn Spikes 14 (11 reb, 2 stl, 2 blk), Nicole Fountain 10 (3 reb, 2 stl), Trina Clark 8 (2 reb, 2 stl), Danielle Miller 7 (3 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Cindy Ekweozor 10 (10 reb, 2 blk),

Granite Hills scoring: Sabrina Jimenez 20 (2 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Amy Sylvester 12 (5 reb, 2 stl), Lauren Bender 4 (5 reb), Kylee Wilson 3.

EL CAPITAN 57, GROSSMONT 42 – In the scramble for the Grossmont North League title, both teams entered Tuesday’s (Jan. 22) encounter in Lakeside in need of a victory.

Surprisingly, the Foothillers (9-10, 1-3 GNL) overcame a slow start and trailed only 40-37 after three quarters. That was impressive considering Grossmont was without its No. 1 rebounder TERRA MUSGROVE, who missed the game due to injury.

Once again when the chips were on the table, El Capitan junior ASHLEY DUFFY was the ace. The 5-foot-10 junior scored a game-high 24 points – the majority coming on 4 treys and 6 of 6 free throws – 9 rebounds and 5 assists.

“Duffy can take over a game,” said Grossmont coach MARK DeFEDE. “And that’s what she did.”

Although Duffy was the offensive maestro in El Capitan ’s latest concerto, basically it was her defense in the final stretch that helped determine the outcome.

Grossmont point guard TINA RIOS, who finished with 17 points, including 3 treys, was held scoreless over the final 8 minutes. It wasn’t that the 5-foot-5 Rios got tired, it was more a case of having the 5-foot-10 Duffy in her face.

“Duffy did a good job defending Rios,” DeFede said. “Overall we were just outmanned.”

HEATHER SPRINGE added 14 points and 10 rebounds for Grossmont.

LIANA PITMAN scored 11 points and grabbed 5 rebounds for El Capitan .

“We played a very good 1st quarter and led 16-6,” said Vaqueros coach FRANK QUINONES. “And then we got a little sloppy in the 2nd and 3rd quarters. So I made a switch in the 4th quarter – put Duffy on Rios and she shut her down. When we thought we could shut Rios down, Springe burned us for 14 points.”

El Capitan scoring: Ashley Duffy 24 (9 reb, 5 ast, 1 blk), Liana Pitman 11 (5 reb, 2 ast), Cresila Banks 7 (4 reb), Britney Loring 6 (5 reb), Jamie Ferguson 4 (4 reb, 2 ast), Ashley Bunce 3, Taylor Autry 2 (2 reb, 1 blk), Samantha Spring (2 reb, 2 ast).

Grossmont scoring: Tina Rios 17 (5 reb, 8 ast, 3 stl), Heather Springe 14 (10 reb), Allison Baxter 6 (8 reb), Chanel Putras 3, Danielle Balderas 2 (6 reb).

HELIX 68, VALHALLA 28 – It was a shooting-fest for the Helix Highlanders in Tuesday’s (Jan. 22) Grossmont South League game against visiting Valhalla .

Senior guard BRITTANY WILLIAMS also added 19 points, hitting 9 of 15 shots from the floor. Williams logged 8 steals and could easily have doubled that total had she been allowed to play more than 2 ½ quarters in the lop-sided victory.

Graciously, Helix coach TRINA HANSEN made wholesale substitutions throughout. None of her starters appeared in the 4th quarter, as the Highlanders began that period with a 61-22 lead.

“We played well on both ends of the floor,” said Hansen. “I am very pleased with tonight’s effort. We played very aggressive – we had a good pressure defense, had a lot of steals. We ran the floor well and converted several layups.”

KELSEY CARTMILL paced the Norsemen with 8 points, 4 rebounds and a pair of steals.

“It was typical of our team – we had a lot of fire and spirit,” said the ever positive JON OWENS, the Norsemen coach. “Kelsey had a nice game and MEGAN TEX had a strong night with 9 boards. As a team we have to keep our heads together and stay positive.”

Helix scoring: Sinoi Leasau 24 (4 reb, 7 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Brittany Williams 19 (2 reb, 6 ast, 8 stl), Nydah Royster 8 (2 reb, 2 ast), Becky Almeraz 7 (4 reb), Mariah Walker 2, Natalia Cano 2, Simone Corder 2, Patrice Craig 2, Cierra Coleman 2.

Valhalla scoring: Kelsey Cartmill 8 (4 reb, 2 stl), Kelley Seitz 6, Amy Woods 4 (4 reb), Emily Roberts 4 (7 reb), Nichole Miller 2 (4 reb), Megan Tex 2 (9 reb), Jenn Gold 2 (2 reb), Morgan Gerken (4 reb), Tanisha Lee (4 reb).

STEELE CANYON 55, MONTE VISTA 33 – BRIANA EITER scored a career-high 21 points to help the Cougars snap a 4-game losing streak in Tuesday’s (Jan. 22) Grossmont South League game against the Monarchs in Spring Valley.

BELINDA PICKENS punched in a powerful double-double of 12 points and 13 rebounds and 2 steals, while G’KIA MYLES chipped in 10 points, 11 rebounds and 4 steals.

For good measure KATY SNEW contributed 10 points – including 4 for 4 free throw shooting – 7 rebounds and 6 steals.

Steele Canyon registered 25 steals. It was a nice day for the Cougars.

“Overall it was a good game, a great defensive game for us,” said Steele Canyon coach PENNY SMITH. “Everybody got a chance to play. It gave us some momentum going into the game with Valhalla .”

For Monte Vista, offense was on the short stack.

Freshman DeANNA BEMBRY managed 7 points, 14 rebounds and one steal, while JANAY PATTON added 11 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 blocks.

Steele Canyon scoring: Briana Eiter 21 (7 stl), Belinda Pickens 12 (13 reb, 2 stl), G’kia Myles 10 (11 reb, 4 stl), Katy Snew 10 (7 reb, 6 stl), Jazmin Daigle 4 (3 stl).

Monte Vista scoring: DeAnna Bembry 7 (14 reb), Kayla Pusey 5, Ashley Weatherford 4, Opal Ross 4, Janay Patton 4 (11 reb, 2 ast, 2 blk), Jill Miranda 4, Megan Boyce 2, Alex Ross 2, Ailene Pamintuan 1.

Madison (3-12, 1-1 CTL) took an early lead but was unable to put the Patriots away until sprinting to an 18-4 fourth quarter scoring advantage.

“This was a step backwards,” said Christian coach SKIP GERLEK. “It’s time to go back to the drawing board. This is one game we want to forget about quickly.”

Christian scoring: Kelsey DePriest 10 (17 reb), Ali Scott 9, Monique Elliott 5.

© East County Sports.com
CLAIREMONT (1-22-08) -- It's one thing to lose and another to earn your keep. But when you give away the game with sloppy turnovers, it left the Helix Highlanders hanging in disappointment after handing host Horizon a 53-49 victory in Monday's (Jan. 21) Martin Luther King Showcase.

After Helix broke a 47-all deadlock with a pair of foul shots by SINOI LEASAU with 3:11 remaining, the Panthers closed the contest with six unanswered points. Helix hurt itself by allowing six offensive rebounds while turning the ball over three times, including a charging foul when Horizon guard Christina Williams stood her ground in the paint.

In all, Horizon tied the contest seven times in the second half, yet couldn't take the lead until Di'Arra Carrington took a fastbreak feed from Christina Dueras for a layin and a 51-49 lead with 1:46 to go.

Carrington was announced as the MLK Showcase MVP, but minutes later the host Panthers looked bad by adding a late co-MVP recipient to a player who was suspended and sat out the entire first half.

In addition, Horizon coaches again looked embarrassing, naming a sportsmanship winner to a Helix player who was also benched and without first asking the Scotties coaching staff.

Further confusion occurred late in the contest when the game clock was left running following a foul call, as more than 15 seconds were lost in Helix' comeback attempt, but only 7 seconds were placed back on the clock.

Carrington led Horizon with 14 points, whle Monique Correia scored 13 points.

BRITTANY WILLIAMS paced Helix with 20 points, although she sat out part of the fourth quarter with four fouls to allow Horizon to rally from a 31-24 deficit early in the second half, as Helix guard SAMANTHA VICK scored 8 of her season-best 14 points in the third period.

“We should have won the game tonight,” said Helix coach TRINA HANSEN. “We had a 2-point lead entering the fourth and failed to hold it. We need to rebound better. We need to own the boards every night and tonight we did not. It was important for us to play this game, competition wise. It’s going to help us later on.”

Helix scoring: Brittany Williams 20 (2 reb, 4 ast, 1 blk, 5 stl), Sam Vick 14 (4 reb), Tatiana Jackson 8 (9 reb), Kami Oliver 4 (3 reb, 2 blk), Sinoi Leasau 3 (2 ast).

WEST HILLS 51, SAN PASQUAL 42 – If there is a better team in the Grossmont North League West Hills coach RYAN KINSER would no doubt like to see them step up. Ranked No. 9 in the latest Union-Tribune Poll, Kinser’s Kids clipped San Pasqual in Monday’s (Jan. 21) Martin Luther King Showcase at Horizon

It was seven straight wins for West Hills (15-4).

San Pasqual (14-7) advanced to a 13-10 first quarter lead before the Wolf Pack scrambled back to lead by a 24-23 count at intermission.

“We started out slow again, we missed a few shots inside early,” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “We picked up the tempo as the game went on to turn things our way.”

West Hills took control in the 3rd quarter with a 12-6 run.

“I thought we played outstanding defense in the 2nd half, we held San Pasqual to 19 points in 2nd half.”

SHERIKA MILLER hit 5 of 11 shots from the field, including one trey, and went 4 for 4 from the free throw line to pace the Pack with 15 points.

“We had several players ill, MARILYN NADERHOFF and CORRYN KIVETT both played ill,” Kinser added. “Fortunately, we’ve given our players enough minutes in previous games that everyone was prepared to step in when they were needed.”

West Hills scoring: Sherika Miller 15 (3 reb), Kimberly Clark 8 (3 stl), Mariah Bennett 7 (6 reb, 5 ast), Corryn Kivett 6 (4 reb, 2 ast), Marilyn Naderhoff 6 (4 reb, 4 ast), Amber Darby 5 (5 reb), Shelby Russo 4 (2 ast).

MOUNT MIGUEL 52, ELKO ( Nev. ) 41 – DANESIA WILLIAMSON scored 24 points, including a pair of treys and 4 of 5 free throws in Monday’s (Jan. 21) non-league game in Las Vegas, which resulted in the Matadors’ first victory out of the San Diego Section in five tries.

NICOLE FOUNTAIN scored 16 points, the majority coming on 4 three-point bulls-eyes.

“If Fountain’s 3-shooting continues to be consistent, we are going to be a lot tougher down the stretch,” said Mount Miguel coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. “She’s starting to pick her game up and that’s going to help us.”

AUTUMN SPIKES added 11 boards and 8 points for the Matadors (10-4).

Mount Miguel was up 22-5 to start the game and then (Elko) went on a 16-2 run to close the half with the Matadors leading by 3 points.

Mount Miguel scoring: Danesia Williamson 24 (2 reb, 4 ast, 6 stl), Nicole Fountain 16 (2 reb, 2 stl), Autumn Spikes 8 (11 reb, 2 blk, 2 stl), Danielle Miller 2 (3 reb, 3 stl), Cindy Ekweozor 2 (10 reb, 2 blk).

FRANCIS PARKER 63, GRANITE HILLS 53 – If there is any team that can give Mount Miguel a run for its money in the Grossmont South League, it’s the Granite

Hills Eagles.

The Eagles, who travel to Spring Valley to face No. 2 ranked Mount Miguel in a GSL game Tuesday (Jan. 22), had No. 5 ranked Francis Parker (17-2) on the ropes in Monday’s (Jan. 21) Martin Luther King Showcase at Horizon.

LAUREN BENDER scored 27 points, which is nearly double her previous high of 14 points. One-third of Bender’s scoring effort came from the free throw line where she was 9 for 9. The 5-foot-10 junior also garnered 14 rebounds and blocked 2 shots.

“We started off real well, Lauren Bender shot the ball well down low the whole game,” said Eagles coach JERRY PARKER. “This was Bender’s best game ever.”

MOLLY HILLENBRAND hit only one field goal, but raised havoc in the paint, drawing a bevy of fouls.

Hillenbrand netted 12 of 15 chances from the charity stripe to finish with 14 points.

Key in the game was AMY SYLVESTER and Hillenbrand fouled out in the 4th quarter.

“We definitely needed to have them on the floor,” Parker noted. “I was pretty pleased with our overall effort. A game like this will help us get ready for the rest of the league as well as the post-season.”

The Eagles will find out if they’re ready on Tuesday night.

Granite Hills scoring: Lauren Bender 27 (14 reb, 2 blk), Molly Hillenbrand 14 (4 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Sabrina Jimenez 3 (5 reb, 6 ast, 3 stl), Amy Sylvester 3 (3 reb, 2 blk, 2 stl), Samantha Silva 3, Alyssa Canoff 2, Lauren Koblischke 1, Kylee Wilson (2 stl).

© East County Sports.com
LAS VEGAS (1-20-08) — Neither team shot well in Saturday’s (Jan. 19) non-league action pitting Mount Miguel (9-4) against Bishop Gorman.

While the Gaels(17-4) shot only 29 percent from the field, the visiting Matadors were even more off the mark at 25 percent.

Bishop Gorman, the No. 1 ranked team in Southern Nevada, capitalized on 27 Mount Miguel turnovers to post a 49-37 victory.

Mount Miguel scoring: Danesia Williamson 15 (4 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Autumn Spikes 11 (10 reb, 3 blks, 2 stl), Danielle Miller 5 (2 reb, 2 stl), Nicole Fountain 4 (2 reb, 2 stl), Cindy Ekweozor 2 (8 reb, 1 blk).

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (1-19-08) -- For the Santana Sultans to compete for the Grossmont North League title, one task needed to be accomplished above all else.

"We needed to rebound, rebound and rebound," said senior guard NICOLE BRZECZEK. "It was a team effort on defense and everyone helped out."

And by taking Grossmont out of its running game Friday (Jan. 18), the Sultans moved into position to contend with West Hills for the Grossmont North League title after whipping the host Foothillers, 48-37.

Brzeczek led the assault with 17 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. But it was the Sultans' defense which hampered the already short-handed Hillers, which failed to rally in the second half after missing 16 straight 3-point shots to see the Santana pull away for its 9th victory in 10 starts.

Moments after Grossmont guard TIFFANY TOOSON stole the ball, Brzeczek raced over to block the breakaway layin, then capped a rare Sultans fast break by accepting an Elias pass for a 3-point bucket.

Next time down the court, Brzeczek stole the ball and scored on her own breakway layin while being fouled. The conventional 3-point plays with 3:33 remaining pushed the lead to a game-high 18 points.

"It isn't just Nicole's defense or shooting, it's her leadership, too." added Elias. "Nicole always brings hustle to her game."

Grossmont led early, 11-4, on a series of 3-point goals. But when Santana adjusted its defense, the Hillers eventually became frustrated and stopped running their offense, simply shooting triples on the first pass upon starting their offense.

Following its initial 4-for-5 burst out of the gate, Grossmont shot just 15.8 percent (9-of-57) from the floor over the rest of the ballgame.

Santana center KAILA SMITH added 9 points and 12 rebounds.

The Foothillers received a double-double from ALLISON BAXTER (13 points, 10 boards), while HEATHER SPRINGE added 10 points in trying to makeup for the absence of forward TERRA MUSGRAVE, who badly turned an ankle in the team's previous contest against West Hills.

“It was huge not having Musgrove because they were able to dominate us inside,” said Foothillers coach MARK DeFEDE. “But give them credit – they play very hard. They did a good job of clock management.”

Santana scoring: Nicole Brzeczek 17 (8 reb, 6 ast), Jamie Elias 12, Kaila Smith 9 (12 reb, 4 stl), Kim Gross 4, Samantha White 4.

Grossmont scoring: Allison Baxter 13 (10 reb), Heather Springe 10, Tina Rios 9 (5 ast), Danielle Balderas 5, Tiffany Tooson 0 (11 reb, 5 stl, 3 ast).

The Matadors (9-3, 3-0 GSL), who have won 68 of 69 league games over the past eight seasons, were hanging onto a precarious 19-16 halftime lead before they began their third quarter siege.

“I don’t know if it’s a record or not, but I can’t remember us scoring that many points in one quarter before,” said Mount Miguel coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL, who will take his team to Nevada this weekend for a pair of contests against nationally renowned opponents.

DANESIA WILLIAMSON, who totaled a game-high 25 points in the game, tallied 18 markers in the memorable third-quarter eruption. AUTUMN SPIKES scored 6 of her 11 points in that period, while NICOLE FOUNTAIN hit 2 of her 4 threes during the 8-minute segment.

“Danesia hit two quick 3-pointers and then it became a lay-up drill,” Sandoval said.

In addition to her 25 points, Williamson handed out 8 assists, made 7 steals and pegged 3 rebounds. Fountain finished with 14 points, 3 steals, 3 rebounds and 2 assists.

Mount Miguel ’s 6-foot-3 CINDY EKWEOZOR finished with 13 rebounds, 2 blocks and 8 points. The 6-1 Spikes corralled 11 boards and blocked 2 shots.

BRITTANY WILLIAMS led Helix with 21 points.

“I know most of her points came at the end of the game because freshman DANIELLE MILLER did an outstanding job on defense against her,” Sandoval said. “Every point that Brittany made she had to work hard for.”

In addition to her defensive artwork, Miller also punched in 8 points and grabbed 4 rebounds.

Mount Miguel scoring: Danesia Williamson 25 (8 ast, 3 reb, 7 stl), Nicole Fountain 14 (3 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Autumn Spikes 11 (11 reb, 4 stl, 2 blk),
Cindy Ekweozor 8 (13 reb, 2 ast, 2 blk), Danielle Miller 8 (4 reb, 3 stl), Trina Clark 5 (2 reb, 2 stl), Shateara Anderson 2.

Helix scoring: Brittany Williams 21, Sinoi Leasau 5, Kami Oliver 4, Nydah Royster 1, Sam Vick 1.

Ever the optimist, Skibbe was finally able to celebrate a victory as the visiting Monarchs upended the Norsemen in Friday’s (Jan. 18) Grossmont South League contest.

Monte Vista moved out to a 15-10 first-quarter lead and continued to outscore the Norsemen in every quarter.

“It was a little confidence builder tonight,” said Skibbe. “We ran the floor really nice. Point forward LiAiesha Brandon is coming out well. I would rather run a point forward system then a point guard system. So we have been trying to put the ball in the hands of forwards instead of our point guard. Brandon handled the ball well and we attacked the basket well.”

Seven Monarchs contributed to the scoring in the monumental victory.

“Hats off to Coach Skibbe, he’s done a lot with his team,” said Valhalla coach JON OWENS. “They outplayed us the whole game. We did a decent job on the boards tonight. We just couldn’t convert our offensive second chances.”

EMILY ROBERTS paced Valhalla (1-15, 0-3 GSL) with 11 points, 12 rebounds and 6 steals. KELSEY CARTMILL connected on a trio of 3-pointers on her way to an 11-point outing, while NICHOLE MILLER tallied 7 points and 6 rebounds for the Norsemen.

Monte Vista scoring: Jill Miranda 17 (10 stl, 3 reb, 2 ast), LiAiesha Brandon 14 (12 reb, 5 ast), Opal Ross 7 (2 stl), DeAnna Bembry 4 (4 reb, 5 ast, 2 blk, 7 stl), Alex Ross 4, Janay Patton 4 (10 reb, 4 ast), Ashley Weatherford 2, Kayla Pusey 1 (5 reb, 2 stl).

Valhalla scoring: Emily Roberts 11 (12 reb, 6 stl), Kelsey Cartmill 11 (4 reb), Nichole Miller 7 (6 reb, 1 blk), Amy Woods 4 (5 reb), Kelley Seitz 2 (4 reb), Megan Tex 2 (5 reb), Tanisha Lee 1 (4 reb), Erica Torgerson 1, Morgan Gerken (2 reb).

Hillenbrand hammered in 25 points, hauled down 17 rebounds, made 8 steals, handed out 6 scoring passes and blocked 3 shots.

AMY SYLVESTER added 15 points – the majority coming on 9 of 13 free throw shooting – 6 steals and 3 blocks for the Eagles (14-6, 3-0 GSL).

LAUREN BENDER contributed only 6 points to the Granite Hills totals, but was a beast on the boards with 13 rebounds and 2 blocked shots.

“They hurt us inside,” said Steele Canyon coach PENNY SMITH

One of the key things Steele Canyon (6-11, 0-3 GSL) did to neutralize the Eagles was double-team Granite Hills sophomore point guard SABRINA JIMENEZ.

“They were determined to take Sabrina out of the game, and then she got into foul trouble so I had to take her out of the game,” Parker said. “And when she was on the bench Steele Canyon pressed us and we committed a lot of turnovers.”

BELINDA PICKENS, a 5-foot-10 senior, netted 8 of 14 shots from the field for 17 points inside the paint.

BRIANA EITER hit 3 of 5 shots from above the arc and added two free throws for 11 points.

At the same time KATY SNEW returned to the lineup to contribute 6 points, as did JULIANNE KOLEGRAFF.

“It was our 25 turnovers that killed us,” Smith said. “We got a lot of steals off our press, but if we didn’t turn the ball over as much as we did we would have won the game.”

Granite Hills scoring: Molly Hillenbrand 25 (17 reb, 6 ast, 8 stl, 3 blk), Amy Sylvester 15 (4 reb, 3 ast, 6 stl, 3 blk), Lauren Bender 6 (13 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl, 2 blk), Kylee Wilson 4 (3 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Sabrina Jimenez 4 (3 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Samantha Silva 2 (4 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Lauren Koblischke (3 stl).

Steele Canyon scoring: Belinda Pickens 17, Briana Eiter 11, Katy Snew 6, Julianne Kolegraff 6, Jazmin Daigle 2, G’kia Myles 1.

“This is just another game where if they try to shut down Duffy, we have seven other girls who can contribute,” said Quinones. “It’s not like we were looking past them, or, on the other side that we were trying to run up the score. We were working on things. Our defense continues to get better and we boxed out better. The plus is we had good offensive balance.”

In addition to her team-high scoring total, Duffy proved her versatility with 8 assists and 8 steals.

TAYLOR AUTRY jammed in 12 points, plucked 5 rebounds and dished 4 assists for the Vaqueros, while CRISELA BANKS added 11 points, 3 assists and 4 steals.

BRITNEY LORING, a 6-foot-1 senior, tallied 10 points, 9 rebounds, 3 steals and one block in the romp over El Cajon Valley. In her last four games Loring has scored 43 points and bagged 46 rebounds.

“Loring is becoming the player we hoped she would be,” said Quinones.

This game was over early, as El Capitan led 19-4 after one quarter and 32-12 by intermission.

SHERAINA MOON led El Cajon Valley with 12 points, half of which came on 6 for 6 free throw shooting.

“They just ripped us. It’s nothing bad, that’s just the way it is,” said El Cajon Valley coach RANDY ROBINSON. “ El Capitan is very good. (Quinones) only has eight kids on the varsity. We didn’t compete very well from the get-go. When you have kids who don’t have basketball experience it’s very hard to compete.”

El Capitan has won 9 of its last 11 games.

El Capitan scoring: Ashley Duffy 14 (3 reb, 8 ast, 8 stl), Taylor Autry 12 (5 reb, 4 ast), Crisela Banks 11 (3 ast, 4 stl), Britney Loring 10 (9 reb, 3 stl, 1 blk), Samantha Spring 6 (2 ast, 4 stl), Liana Pitman 6 (3 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Jamie Ferguson 2 (5 reb, 2 stl), Ashley Bunce 2 (3 reb).

El Cajon Valley scoring: Sheraina Moon 12, Samantha Julien 4 (5 reb), Jeena Norwarekar 2, Tericka Williams 2 (3 ast), Kayla Faten 2, Kelly Wimberly (5 reb).

“We put ourselves in a position to win but just couldn’t pull it off,” said Christian coach SKIP GERLEK. “I can’t wait to play them the next time at our place.”

Clairemont crawled out to a 4-3 first quarter lead and maintained a 14-11 halftime advantage. The Chieftains never turned the game into a runaway, but held onto the lead throughout.

Christian (0-16, 0-2 CTL) had plenty of chances to overtake the Chiefs, but failed pitifully from the free throw line, missing 21 of 27 chances.

ALI SCOTT, who joined the team late, paced the Patriots with 9 points.

“We played too much at their tempo,” Gerlek said. “We need to slow the game down to our tempo. I’m pleased with the team’s effort tonight, we competed the whole game.”

Christian scoring: Ali Scott 9, Monique Elliott 5, Kelsey DePriest 5, Ricki Gentry 3.

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (1-17-08) — Games involving Grossmont North League rivals are rarely sure things. That is, nobody can claim victory before earning it.

West Hills (14-4, 2-0 GNL), the No. 10 ranked team in the San Diego CIF, posted its 6th straight win by flattening the Foothillers of Grossmont 60-44 in Wednesday’s (Jan. 16) GNL action.

This was a game that proved that overall balance can overcome one or two superstars.

While Grossmont senior guard TINA RIOS rattled in a career-high 25 points – the majority coming on 7 three-pointers – the Wolf Pack had eight players contribute to the scoring column.

“Even though she scored 25 points, I thought we did a good job defensively on Tina Rios,” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER.

In the eyes of Grossmont coach MARK DeFEDE, the game was decided when 5-foot-10 junior center TERRA MUSGROVE rolled her ankle in the first three minutes of the game.

“When I went on the floor to see what had happened, her ankle was so puffy I was thinking the worst,” DeFede said. “Thank God there was no ligament damage.”

Sophomore SHERIKA MILLER once again paced the Wolf Pack with 16 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists, while MARILYN NADERHOFF pitched in 11 points and shoveled off 11 scoring passes for the Wolf Pack.

“Marilyn Naderhoff played a great game tonight,” said Kinser. “She had a double-double to go with 6 rebounds and one steal. She is a true leader. She’s our point guard and had zero turnovers tonight.”

KIMBERLY CLARK added 10 points – the majority coming on a pair of treys.

“We started out slow – we went down 8-3 early in the game,” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “We rebounded real well. We had control of the game throughout the whole 2nd half.”

West Hills scoring: Sherika Miller 16 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk), Marilyn Naderhoff 11 (11 ast, 6 reb), Kimberly Clark 10 (3 reb, 2 ast), Corryn Kivett 6 (8 reb), Connie Hines 6 (2 reb), Mariah Bennett 5 (3 reb, 2 ast), Shelby Russo 4 (6 reb, 1 blk), Amber Darby 2 (3 reb).

Grossmont scoring: Tina Rios 25 (3 ast, 4 stl), Allison Baxter 14 (3 reb), Terra Musgrove 3 (2 reb), Danielle Balderas 2 (6 reb, 2 stl), Heather Springe (8 reb).

Sandoval’s Matadors (8-3, 2-1 GSL), who have won 67 of 68 league games during his 8-year tenure, raced to a 37-2 lead in the 1st half against visiting Steele Canyon (6-10, 0-2 GSL).

Mount Miguel totaled 34 points in the 2nd period alone en route to the lop-sided win over Steele Canyon .

“You know, we could have scored a lot more points, if we really wanted to do that,” said Sandoval. “But that’s not what I’m about and that’s not what my program’s about. We want to win games but our objective is not to embarrass people.”

DANESIA WILLIAMSON led the Matadors with 20 points, 9 steals, 7 assists and 2 rebounds.

“She could have gotten 4 or 5 more assists if our people would have done a better job of finishing,” Sandoval said.

Freshman DANIELLE MILLER scored a career-high 14 points and made 4 steals for the Matadors, while NICOLE FOUNTAIN chipped in 9 points and 5 rebounds.

“Our defense was extremely good in the 1st half,” said Sandoval. “I sat CINDY EKWEOZOR and AUTUMN SPIKES with 2 minutes to go in the 1st half just to see how we would handle it.”

“In the 2nd quarter Danesia had 11 points, TRINA CLARK (7), Danielle Miller (6) and Spikes had (4).”

BELINDA PICKENS, who had missed three games due to a spider bite, led Steele Canyon with 13 points and 8 rebounds.

G’KIA MYLES led the team with 11 rebounds.

“When Mount Miguel attacked us, the only thing we could do was to attack them back,” said Cougars coach PENNY SMITH.

Mount Miguel scoring: Danesia Williamson 20 (7 ast, 2 reb, 9 stl), Danielle Miller 14 (3 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Nicole Fountain 9 (5 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Trina Clark 7 (2 reb, 1 blk), Autumn Spikes 5 (8 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk), Cindy Ekweozor 5 (3 reb, 2 ast), Shateara Anderson (4 ast).

Steele Canyon scoring: Belinda Pickens 13 (8 reb), Briana Eiter 2, Jazmin Daigle 2, G’kia Myles 1 (11 reb), Mace Alameri 1.

“You won’t see Molly play any better than that,” said Granite Hills coach JERRY PARKER.

Smooth-handed sophomore southpaw guard SABRINA JIMENEZ added 12 points, 6 assists, 2 steals and 3 rebounds for the Eagles, who have won 4 of their last 5.

Granite Hills took control at the outset, earning a 27-9 halftime lead.

“We wanted to be aggressive on defense,” Parker said. “But I think our girls got a little overexcited. We gambled too much, overextended and did things that we don’t normally do.”

LAUREN BENDER added 9 points, 6 rebounds, 3 blocks and a steal for the Eagles.

“We knew we were going to have problems because Granite Hills is such a great team,” said Valhalla coach JON OWENS. “We were playing without KELANI BLACKWELL, who injured her tailbone two games ago and then fractured her elbow in the El Capitan game on Monday. She’s out for the season.”

Valhalla , which failed to score more than 7 points in any quarter, received 9 points and 9 rebounds from EMILY ROBERTS.

“I was proud of the team,” Owens added. “KELSEY CARTMILL (9 points) played a tough game for us. We don’t shoot a high percentage. We did as much as we were capable of doing today.”

Granite Hills scoring: Molly Hillenbrand 23 (13 reb, 6 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Jimenez 12 (3 reb, 6 ast, 2 stl), Lauren Bender 9 (6 reb, 3 blk), Amy Sylvester 7 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 3 stl), Samantha Silva 3 (4 ast), Kylee Wilson 2 (3 ast, 3 stl), Kari Hubert 1, Lauren Koblischke (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl).

Valhalla scoring: Emily Roberts 9 (8 reb), Kelsey Cartmill 9 (4 reb), Tanisha Lee 3 (3 reb), Nicole Miller (4 reb), Megan Tex (4 reb), Kelley Seitz (2 reb).

Steady senior point guard NICOLE BRZECZEK punched in 15 points – including one trey – for the Sultans, who also received 5 assists from JAMIE ELIAS.

ALYSSA PADBERG, not known for her scoring prowess, proved her worth with 5 rebounds and 5 steals for Santana.

SAMANTHA WHITE, a 5-foot-10 freshman, added 7 points and 5 rebounds for the Sultans who have won 9 of their last 10.

SHERAINA MOON once again led El Cajon Valley (9-11, 0-2 GNL) with 9 points. She did most of her damage from the free throw line where she connected on 7 of 12 free throws.

“STEPHANIE JACOBS played very well tonight,” said El Cajon Valley coach RANDY ROBINSON. “She penetrated, found the open people and saw the court really well. And KELLY WIMBERLY rebounded well.”

“El Cajon Valley is much improved,” said Santana coach JIM MOTTERSHAW. “They really move the ball well. We moved the ball well early. El Cajon Valley came out very aggressive. They were tough for us to handle, they caused us a lot of problems.”

Santana scoring: Kaila Smith 20 (7 reb), Nicole Brzeczek 15, Samantha White 7 (5 reb), Kim Gross 6, Lauren Mueller 5, Jamie Elias 3 (5 ast), Alyssa Padberg 2 (5 reb, 5 stl),

El Cajon Valley scoring: Sheraina Moon 9, Tericka Williams 6 (5 reb), Stephanie Jacobs 4, Kelly Wimberly 4 (8 reb), Erin Robinson 4, Hazel Doe 1, Jazmin Daigle (2 stl).

BRITNEY LORING, a 6-foot-1 senior, continues to make herself a major cog for the Vaqueros. She scored 11 points and grabbed a team-high 12 rebounds off the bench against the Patriots (14-5).

“That’s three straight good outings for Loring,” said El Capitan coach FRANK QUINONES. “We wanted her to be a major player and she’s starting to fulfill that role.”

El Capitan rolled to a 19-8 first quarter lead, maintained a 35-27 halftime edge and then cruised to victory lane.

SAMANTHA SPRING poured in 12 points for the Vaqueros. She accounted for the Lakeside 5’s only trey, connected on 4 of 6 free throws and grabbed 4 rebounds.

“I have eight girls who can start at any time,” Quinones said. “That’s a nice problem to have as a coach.”

El Capitan scoring: Ashley Duffy 16 (8 reb, 5 ast, 5 stl, 1 blk), Samantha Spring 13 (4 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk), Britney Loring 11 (12 reb), Taylor Autry 8 (2 ast), Crisela Banks 8 (3 red, 2 ast, 3 stl), Jamie Ferguson 6 (6 reb), Liana Pitman (4 reb, 4 ast, 1 blk), Ashley Bunce (1 reb, 1 ast).

© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (1-16-08) — The Monte Vista Monarchs suffered from a case of too much BRITTANY WILLIAMS in Tuesday night’s (Jan. 15) Grossmont South League action.

Williams, a senior guard headed for San Jose State, drilled in 12 of 24 shots from the floor and 9 of 11 free throws for 33 points as the Highlanders swamped the Monarchs, 75-33.

Helix (8-8, 2-0 GSL), winners of 5 of its last 6, opened up a 24-10 first quarter lead. The Highlanders expanded that advantage to 45-21 by halftime, and were sitting on a 71-27 margin when the running clock was turned on to start the 4th quarter.

“We came out and decided to play full-court pressure early,” said Helix coach TRINA HANSEN. “We hit the boards hard, ran the court well and were able to make our shots.”

KAMI OLIVER knocked down 4 of 7 shots for 8 points and made 4 steals for Helix.

“We’re playing every minute of every game,” said Monte Vista coach MICHAEL SKIBBE. “I liked our effort tonight – we continue to play hard. We keep getting better – we’ll get there!”

Helix scoring: Brittany Williams 33 (2 reb, 5 ast, 5 stl), Sinoi Seasau 17 (2 reb, 8 ast, 2 blk, 4 stl), Kami Oliver 8 (3 reb, 2 blk, 4 stl), Nydah Royster 5, Tatiana Jackson 2 (5 reb), Becky Almeraz 2, Krista Ronning 2, Mariah Walker 2 (2 reb), Simone Corder 2.

Monte Vista scoring: Janay Patton 10, Jill Miranda 5, DeAnna Bembry 5, Alex Ross 4, Ailene Pamintuan 3, LiAiesha Brandon 2, Kayla Pusey 2, Ashley Weatherford 2.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (1-15-08) -- With apologies to Mount Miguel, the East County's top two girls basketball teams -- at least in terms of winning percentage -- headlined Monday's (Jan. 14) Grossmont Conference Tournament action, as SHERIKA MILLER scored a game-best 21 points, while MARIAH BENNETT and MARILYN NADERHOFF registered 7 assists each to pace West Hills past host Granite Hills, 58-45.

Bennett scored all of her 5 points in the opening minutes, helping the Wolf Pack (14-4) to a quick 12-3 lead, leaving the Eagles (12-6) playing catch-up the rest of the night.

"We're working together well, so we can look for girls on the wings on the fast break for open layups," said Naderhoff, who came off the bench to score 10 points. "We try to score with as little delay as possible, but we can run our offense, too."

It's the difference on why West Hills is included in the San Diego Section rankings by both county daily newspapers, listed 10th in one and high on the honorable mention list by the other.

"It was exciting to get the recognition," added Naderhoff. "I didn't know anything about it until my (school) principal (BRIAN WILBUR) told me about it. It felt special that other people have noticed us."

One player who formerly played with the current West Hills' core group was Granite Hills guard SABRINA JIMENEZ, who had special reason to play perhaps her best game of the season.

"It was a personal rivalry game for myself because I wanted to prove I can still play with those girls," said Jimenez, who moved to the Granite Hills enrollment area in the 8th grade. "I would've played at Patrick Henry, so I grew up playing with most of them."

The sophomore held her own with 9 points and 6 assists while directing the offense. However, she lost a half-dozen other assists because the Eagles missed an array of inside shots or were fouled going to the bucket.

"The only difference in our teams is they have played together since the 6th grade, while we have a new team except for a couple of seniors," noted Jimenez.

Along with Jimenez, Granite Hills stayed in contact with West Hills behind a pair of seniors -- forwards MOLLY HILLENBRAND (15 points, 11 rebounds) and AMY SYLVESTER (11 points, 12 boards) -- who each recorded double-doubles.

All five Grossmont North League teams were victorious in Monday’s action.

West Hills scoring: Sherika Miller 21 (10 reb), Kimberly Clark 16, Marilyn Naderhoff 10 (7 ast), Mariah Bennett 5 (7 ast), Corryn Kivett 3, Shelby Russo 3.

Granite Hills scoring: Molly Hillenbrand 15 (11 reb), Amy Sylvester 11 (12 reb), Sabrina Jimenez 9 (6 ast), Kylee Wilson 6, Lauren Bender 4 (11 reb).

The game was tied at 15-all until Grossmont’s TINA RIOS hit a 3-pointer with three seconds left in the half.

Rios finished with a game-high 19 points, 6 assists, 4 steals and 3 rebounds. She was 6 for 6 from the free throw line.

HEATHER SPRINGE turned in a powerful performance for Grossmont with 15 points and 9 rebounds.

“TERRA MUSGROVE got into foul trouble and Heather picked up the slack, did a really good job on the boards,” said DeFede.

Grossmont took command in the 3rd quarter, outscoring the Cougars 16-5.

“The breaking point was the 3rd quarter when Grossmont hit some free throws,” said Smith. “Rios was 4 for 4 in that period on free throws.

For the third straight game Steele Canyon was playing without the services of starters BELINDA PICKENS and KATY SNEW.

“It was one of those games you learn from. I think with Pickens and Snew it could have been a different game,” Smith said.

MACE ALAMERI led the Cougars with 9 points, and G’KIA MYLES crashed the boards for 16 rebounds.

BRIANA EITER hit a pair of 3s on her way to 8 points, as did JAZMIN DAIGLE.

JACKIE McGOVERN corralled 9 rebounds, giving her 37 boards in her last three games.

“With our two best players out and playing with back-up players, they did exactly what I told them to do,” said Smith. “We had only two turnovers in the 1st half. Each and every one of them played great. They were tired in the 3rd and 4th quarters, but they realized they could play with Grossmont. I give each and every one of my players two thumbs up.”

Grossmont scoring: Tina Rios 19 (3 reb, 6 ast, 4 stl), Heather Springe 15 (9 reb), Terra Musgrove 6 (7 reb), Allison Baxter 5, Chanel Putras 2, Danielle Balderas (3 reb).

Steele Canyon scoring: Mace Alameri 9 (2 reb), Jazmin Daigle 8 (6 reb), Briana Eiter 8 (4 reb), Julianne Kolegraff 7, Jackie McGovern 2 (9 reb), G’kia Myles 1 (16 reb).

The ever-improving BRITNEY LORING – a 6-foot-1 senior post – rang up a thundering double-double of 13 points and 15 rebounds.

TAYLOR AUTRY added 12 points, 3 assists and 2 steals, while ASHLEY DUFFY settled for 7 assists, 5 steals, 5 rebounds and 9 points.

Perhaps the most satisfying element in the game to Quinones’ thinking was El Capitan ’s 22 assists. The Vaqueros also had 21 steals.

El Capitan zoomed out to a 33-11 halftime lead and then blew the game open in the 2nd half.

“Once again I think we can match any team’s desire to play, we just can’t match talents,” said Valhalla coach JON OWENS. “If there is a top team in East County, we’re in line to play them. We’ve played Santana, West Hills and El Capitan, and our kids haven’t quit.”

El Capitan was 28 for 66 (42 percent) in field goal shooting.

El Capitan scoring: Britney Loring 13 (15 reb, 3 stl, 1 blk), Taylor Autry 12 (3 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Ashley Duffy 9 (5 reb, 7 ast, 5 stl, 1 blk), Samantha Spring 8 (4 ast), Ashley Bunce 7 (2 reb, 3 stl), Liana Pitman 6 (2 reb, 3 stl), Jamie Ferguson 6 (8 reb, 4 ast), Crisela Banks 6 (6 reb, 4 stl).

Valhalla scoring: Kelani Blackwell 7 (3 reb), Emily Roberts 6 (7 reb), Nichole Miller 2 (3 reb), Tanisha Lee 2 (5 reb), Megan Tex (4 reb).

Even though the Sultans were never threatened by host Monte Vista in Monday’s (Jan. 14) Grossmont Conference crossover game, Mottershaw was less tspiker

4155han pleased by Santana’s performance.

Santana senior NICOLE BRZECZEK led Santana (12-5) with 14 points, most of which came on a trio of treys.

The Sultans’ JAMIE ELIAS also hit 3 shots from above the arc for 9 points.

JILL MIRANDA reached double figures for Monte Vista (0-15) with 10 points to go along with 3 assists and 3 steals.

In spite the Monarchs’ dismal record, coach MICHAEL SKIBBE remains upbeat.

“I’m going to stay positive,” Skibbe said. “The girls are staying very competitive. They are staying strong, they never quit playing tonight. We’re finally rounding into mid-season form.”

Santana scoring: Nicole Brzeczek 14, Jamie Elias 9, Mikaela Samuels 8, Kaila Smith 8, KimGross 5, Brittany Fenn 4, Lauren Mueller 4, Alyssa Padberg 3, Samantha White 3.

Monte Vista scoring: Jill Miranda 10 (3 ast, 3 blk), DeAnna Bembry 4 (7 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Sabrina Guerrero 2, Opal Ross 2, LiAiesha Brandon 2, Alex Ross 2, Janay Patton 1, Kayla Pusey 1.

Although she didn’t start, senior SHERAINA MOON paced the Braves with 10 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists and 5 steals in little more than 10 minutes playing time.

Sophomore ERIN ROBINSON made her varsity debut for the Braves, punching in 8 points, 5 rebounds and a pair of steals.

TERICKA WILLIAMS led El Cajon Valley with a dozen rebounds and added 6 points, while JEENA NORWAREKAR rolled three of a kind, as in 4 points, 4 assists and 4 steals.

Senior KELSEY DePRIEST paced the Patriots with 7 points.

“It was nice having Erin back,” said Robionson. “She did a nice job in her first game.”

“We looked at this game as a way to get ready for league,” Robinson continued. “I believe we are going to continue to progress. I continue to be very happy with where we are. The rest of the season is an opportunity to measure ourselves to see what we have to do to get ready for next season.”

El Cajon Valley scoring: Sheraina Moon 10 (7 reb, 7 ast, 5 stl), Erin Robinson 8 (5 reb, 2 stl), Tericka Williams 6 (12 reb), Samantha Julien 6, Hazel Doe 4, Jeena Norwarekar 4, Kaylani Faten 4, Kelly Wimberly 4.

Christian scoring: Kelsey DePriest 7, Ali Scott 5, Marisa Marvin 4, Monique Elliott 2.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (1-13-08) — The visiting Pilots of Our Lady of Peace figured they had the right strategy to derail the Grossmont Foothillers in Saturday’s (Jan. 12) non-league game.

The Pilots’ purpose was to neutralize Grossmont’s senior point guard, TINA RIOS. And in some ways they were successful, as Rios finished with only 7 points.

However, Rios delivered 10 assists and made 4 steals to help propel Grossmont to a come-from-behind 49-39 victory.

“They tried to box-and-one on Tina,” Foothillers coach MARK DeFEDE said. “So we went to other options. Tina did a good job of distributing the ball and we had a lot of different girls step up. We had great balance.”

HEATHER SPRINGE nailed a trio of treys for 11 points to go with 8 rebounds to spearhead Grossmont’s supporting cast.

ALLISON BAXTER rang up 10 points, more than half coming on a pair of 3-pointers. Sophomore DANIELLE BALDERAS joined the offensive parade with 9 points, including one 3.

“When you get balance like that, it makes you a lot harder to beat,” DeFede noted.

This was a key win for Grossmont, considering OLP had previously beaten El Capitan and Granite Hills.

Grossmont scoring: Terra Musgrove 12 (12 reb), Heather Springe 11 (3 reb), Allison Baxter 10 (4 reb), Danielle Balderas 9 (5 reb), Tina Rios 7 (10 ast, 4 stl).

“In that first quarter we were moving the ball well and making shots,” said Mount Miguel coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL, whose Matadors led 18-17 after the opening 8 minutes. “When you make shots you play better defense.”

Mount Miguel's early surge waned in the middle two quarters as the Bulldogs (12-3) chewed out a 38-16 scoring advantage. Game over.

The game was knotted at 23-23 with 2:30 remaining in the first half. Ayala then closed the half with a 7-0 run. That momentum carried over to the third quarter as the Bulldogs hit 4 consecutive 3-pointers to break the game open.

“This is the best team we’ve played this season,” said Sandoval. “When they hit us with that barrage of 3-pointers – all by different people – to start the second half, that all but decided the game. And they were deep 3s with a hand in their face. It’s not like we just left them open.”

Six-foot-3 Rebecca Gardner, who is bound for UCLA, paced the Bulldogs with 20 points.

“They have three girls 6-2 or taller and two of them are already going Division I,” Sandoval noted.

DANESIA WILLIAMSON landed four 3-pointers on her way to a team-best 16 points for the Matadors (7-3). She also had 5 assists and 4 steals.

CINDY EKWEOZOR added 9 points, 12 boards and 2 blocks, while AUTUMN SPIKES punched in with 8 points, 10 rebounds and 2 blocks.

NICOLE FOUNTAIN completed the Mount Miguel scoring with 9 points.

“I’m disappointed that we lost, but not by how our girls played,” said Sandoval. “The kids did a lot of good things. The main thing we have to work on now is how to finish.”

Mount Miguel scoring: Danesia Williamson 16 (5 ast, 3 reb, 4 stl), Autumn Spikes 8 (10 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk), Nicole Fountain 9 (5 reb, 2 stl), Cindy Ekweozor 9 (12 reb, 2 blk), Danielle Miller (2 reb).

“When you lose your senior leadership you never know what’s going to happen,” said Steele Canyon coach PENNY SMITH. “But our younger girls came through.”

The Cougars, who shot a paltry 12 of 30 from the free throw line, used a 16-5 fourth quarter run to secure the victory.

Freshman JULIEANNE KOLEGRAFF was the Cougars’ offensive leader with 13 points, including 7 of 12 free throw shooting.

Steele Canyon was also dominant on the boards, led by G’KIA MYLES (15 rebounds) and JACKIE McGOVERN (14 rebounds).

“We played excellent defense and that kept us in the game,” said Smith. “BRIANA EITER did a nice job leading us.”

Steele Canyon scoring: Julianne Kolegraff 13 (3 stl), Jazmin Daigle 8 (5 stl, G’kia Myles 7 (15 reb, 2 stl), Briana Eiter 5, Mace Alameri 1 (2 stl), Reema Poles 1 (2 stl), Jackie McGovern (14 reb), Yvette Phipps (3 stl).

EL CENTRO-CENTRAL 64, STEELE CANYON 43 – Upon Steele Canyon's completion of the EC Southwest game on Saturday (Jan. 12), the Cougars had to jump in their vans and race across the valley in time for their second game tipoff of the Imperial Valley-San Diego Challenge against Central Union at Imperial High.

“Playing short-handed certainly did not help us, but I thought our girls held up before running out of gas in the fourth quarter,” said Cougars coach PENNY SMITH.

Still, the Cougars trailed only 48-39 heading into the final quarter, but those last 8 minutes belonged to the Spartans, who pounded out a 16-4 advantage.

The Cougars (6-8) were playing chase from the outset. BRIANA EITER led the way with 17 points, more than half coming on a trio of treys.

G’KIA MYLES turned in an impressive double-double of 10 points and 14 rebounds. JACKIE McGOVERN also had 14 rebounds.

“Obviously it’s tough to play back-to-back games,” Smith said.

Steele Canyon scoring: Briana Eiter 17 (2 stl), G’kia Myles 10 (14 reb), Reema Poles 5 (2 stl), Julianne Kolegraff 5, Mace Alameri 2, Jackie McGovern (14 reb).

The Norsemen led 47-45 after three quarters and maintained that narrow advantage with a minute left to play.

Calexico tied the contest with 30 seconds remaining and then took the lead on a putback and free throw in the final 5 seconds.

“We’re still trying to teach our girls how to finish a game,” Valhalla coach JON OWENS said. “We had a victory in our hands but let it slip away due to our inexperience. When the game was tied we gave Calexico three chances to beat us, and they finally did. We had one last gasp chance to tie it but our 3-point shot lipped the rim and came off.”

Sophomore TANISHA LEE scored a career-high 17 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to pace the Norsemen.

Senior guard KELANI BLACKWELL hit a trio of treys on her way to a 15-point finish, while EMILY ROBERTS rolled off 12 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals and 2 blocks.

Valhalla scoring: Tanisha Lee 17 (9 reb), Kelani Blackwell 15 (2 reb), Emily Roberts 12 (11 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl, 2 blk), Kelsey Cartmill 5, Nichole Miller 4 (3 reb), Megan Tex 4 (3 reb), Amy Woods 1 (3 reb), Kelley Seitz (3 reb).

IMPERIAL 54, VALHALLA 16 – The first of Saturday’s (Jan. 12) Imperial Valley-San Diego Challenge doubleheader had to bring back nightmares of Friday’s (Jan. 11) massacre at the hands of Mount Miguel.

The hometown Tigers clawed their way to a 38-3 halftime lead and then coasted to the lopsided victory.

“The Imperial coach told me this was the best game his team has played all season,” Valhalla mentor JON OWENS said. “I thought to myself, ‘gee, that’s just what I wanted to hear.’ They couldn’t miss a shot and we couldn’t make one.”

Valhalla scoring: Kelani Blackwell 6 (2 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk), Emily Roberts 4 (10 reb, 6 stl), Hannah Gerken 3 (2 reb), Erica Torgerson 2 (4 reb), Britney Dollard 1, Tanisha Lee (3 reb), Nichole Miller (4 reb, 2 ast), Kelley Seitz (2 reb).

Monte Vista scoring: Janay Patton 18, DeAnna Bembry 15, Alex Ross 8, Ailene Pamintuan 6, LiAiesha Brandon 5, Jill Miranda 2, Megan Boyce 2, Kayla Pusey 2, Ashley Weatherford 2. No the details were reported.

IMPERIAL 31, MONTE VISTA 17 – The Monarchs fell in Saturday’s (Jan. 12) Imperial Valley-San Diego Challenge opener at Imperial. No details were reported.

© East County Sports.com
LAKESIDE (1-12-08) — Too bad Friday’s (Jan. 11) Grossmont North League opener pitting 10th-ranked West Hills against top challenger El Capitan could be the game that decides the championship.

Granted, these two teams will meet again on Friday (Feb. 1) in Santee. But momentum now resides in the West Hills huddle.

West Hills (13-4, 1-0 GNL) capitalized on El Capitan's poor shooting and its own balanced attack to claim a 51-46 victory at Foster Gym.

“I am really proud of the way the team kept its composure tonight. This was easily our biggest win of the season,” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER.

In the league opener sophomore guard MARILYN NADERHOFF paced the Pack with 16 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals.

“We started off tight because of the type of game it was,” said Kinser. “We calmed down in the 2nd quarter and were able to run our sets. Both teams came out flagging in the 2nd half.”

El Capitan coach FRANK QUINONES recognized that the Vaqueros pep band and fans came to support his team.

“I’m not sure our girls knew how to react, playing in front of a packed house like that,” Quinones said. “Our shooting was way off the mark but we were still in the game right until the end.”

El Capitan (12-5, 0-1 GNL) made only 5 of 31 shots from the field in the first half, yet trailed only 21-13 at intermission. For the game, the Vaqueros made only 18 of 61 chances.

“The most frustrating thing is we missed 20 of those shots underneath the basket,” Quinones said.

With 30 seconds remaining El Capitan trailed by only 3 points.

“I called a timeout and told the girls that we had to foul, but we didn’t get it done until there were 3 seconds left,” said Quinones.

Naderhoff stepped to the line and made both ends of a one-and-one to seal the victory for West Hills.

El Capitan ’s ASHLEY DUFFY led all scorers with 19 points, 10 rebounds and 3 steals.

“I have to compliment Ashley Duffy,” Kinser said. “She had a great second half.”

BRITNEY LORING added 9 points and 10 rebounds for the Vaqueros.

“Loring was hurt during our tournament, so she couldn’t help us much,” said Quinones. “But she had a breakout game tonight – she just ate them up inside. Hopefully she can keep doing that the rest of the season.”

West Hills scoring: Marilyn Naderhoff 16 (6 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), Sherika Miller 13 (8 reb, 1 blk), Kimberly Clark 10 (5 reb, 1 blk), Mariah Bennett 8 (3 reb), Shelby Russo 2 (2 reb), Connie Hines 2 (4 reb), Corryn Kivett (5 reb, 1 blk).

El Capitan scoring: Ashley Duffy 19 (10 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Britney Loring 9 (10 reb), Liana Pitman 5 (2 ast), Samantha Spring 4, Taylor Autry 3 (3 reb, 3 ast), Ashley Bunce 3, Crisela Banks 3 (2 reb, 2 stl), Jamie Ferguson (4 reb).

Helix (7-8, 1-0 GSL) did not have another player score more than 6 points. However, SAM VICK had 7 rebounds to go with her 6 points, and TATIANA JACKSON led the Highlanders by garnering 10 boards.

“We had some different players step up and do their jobs,” said Helix assistant coach WILLY HATHAWAY. “Tatiana Jackson played an outstanding game defensively.”

Steele Canyon ’s BELINDA PICKENS was a force inside, knocking down 9 of 14 shots while gobbling up 13 rebounds for the Cougars (5-7, 0-1 GSL). Pickens could have had a career day had she not gone 0 for 11 from the free throw line.

“Pickens was a true force on both ends of the floor,” said Steele Canyon coach PENNY SMITH. “She has really shown some tremendous improvement in her game so far this season.”

Much like the Highlanders’ Williams, Pickens had a minimal supporting cast.

BRIANA EITER was second in the Steele Canyon scoring line with 6 points and also pitched in 4 assists.

MACE ALAMERI equaled Eiter’s scoring passes but produced just 3 points.

G’KIA MYLES crashed the boards for 11 rebounds.

“We played good, aggressive defense all game tonight,” said Smith. “Offensively we made some changes at halftime and the girls came out and really picked up their intensity in the 2nd half.”

Helix scoring: Brittany Williams 17 (2 reb, 4 stl), Sam Vick 6 (7 reb), Nydah Royster 6 (2 reb), Sinoi Leasau 5 (4 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Kami Oliver 4 (5 reb, 4 stl, 1 blk), Tatiana Jackson 3 (10 reb, 3 stl), Becky Almeraz 2 (3 reb).

Steele Canyon scoring: Belinda Pickens 18 (13 reb), Briana Eiter 6 (4 ast), Julianne Kolegraff 5, Jazmin Daigle 3 (5 reb), Mace Alameri 3 (4 ast), G’kia Myles 2 (11 reb).

Granite Hills led 21-5 after one quarter and 44-10 by intermission.

“We got off to a great start tonight,” said Granite Hills coach JERRY PARKER. “We played excellent defense the whole game. I was really happy with our pressure on defense.”

East County 3-point shooting leader, SABRINA JIMENEZ, nailed 4 shots from above the arc and finished with 16 points, 5 assists and 3 steals.

AMY SYLVESTER pitched in with 12 points, 5 boards and 3 steals for the Eagles.

None of the Monarchs managed more than 4 points against the physical Eagles.

“This was a good opportunity to get all our players some valuable minutes,” said Parker. “We had a good preseason schedule – we faced a lot of quality opponents. I feel it got us ready for league play.”

“I thought we played as well as we have all season,” said Monte Vista coach MICHAEL SKIBBE. “I’ve seen a lot of improvement on this team – the future bodes well.”

“SABRINA GUERRERO played well on both ends of the floor tonight,” Skibbe added.

Granite Hills scoring: Molly Hillenbrand 29 (12 reb, 6 ast, 3 stl), Sabrina Jimenez 16 (2 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl), Amy Sylvester 12 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 3 stl), Lauren Bender 4 (6 reb, 3 blk), Kylee Wilson 3 (3 ast), Ussery 3, Winslow 3, Lauren Koblischke 2 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Monique Ybarra 2, Kari Hubert 2.

Monte Vista scoring: Megan Boyce 4, LiAiesha Brandon 4, Kayla Pusey 4, Alex Ross 3, Janay Patton 3, DeAnna Bembry 2, Jill Miranda 2.

TERRA MUSGROVE turned in a powerful double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds for Grossmont, which balanced its season ledger at 7-7.

Senior SHERAINA MOON was the main link for El Cajon Valley (7-11, 0-1 GNL), finishing with 18 points and 4 rebounds. Moon missed only one of her 5 free throw attempts.

KAYLANI FATEN added 8 points, and KELLY WIMBERLY led the Braves with 6 rebounds.

Grossmont scoring: Tina Rios 24 (4 reb, 5 ast, 4 stl), Terra Musgrove 14 (11 reb), Heather Springe 5 (8 reb), Danielle Balderas 4, Carley Applegate 4, Allison Baxter 3, Tiffany Tooson 2, Francesca Treadwell 2.

El Cajon Valley scoring: Sheraina Moon 18 (4 reb), Kaylani Faten 8, Jeena Norwarekar 2 (4 ast), Samantha Julien 2, Kelly Wimberly 2 (6 reb).

The Patriots, who received 7 points from MONIQUE ELLIOTT, trailed only 5-2 after the opening 8 minutes, but they couldn’t keep pace after that.

“It’s nice to have ALI SCOTT on the team,” said Christian coach SKIP GERLEK. “She’s a big girl who gives us a little versatility on the baseline.”

Scott finished with 4 points.

“We just couldn’t hit any shots,” said Gerlek. “We had plenty of open shots but couldn’t make them. I was pleased with our defensive effort. I thought we played good defense all night. I really think we should have beat them.”

Christian scoring: Monique Elliott 7, Ali Scott 4, Marisa Marvin 1, Kelsey DePriest 1.

EMILY ROBERTS (2) and KELLEY SEITZ accounted for the only Norsemen points, as Valhalla fell to 2-11, 0-1 GSL.

Junior DANESIA WILLIAMSON, arguably the top guard in East County, ran amok with 27 points, 12 assists and 6 steals. A third of her points came on 3-point shots. Williamson could easily have scored more but elected to run the clock.

AUTUMN SPIKES coined a double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds, while senior CINDY EKWEOZOR added 11 points, 7 rebounds and 2 blocks.

“We stopped pressing them after the first quarter,” said Mount Miguel coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL, who’s Matadors led 21-2 after 8 minutes. “I know people think I should have tried to hold the score down but I only have seven girls. I can’t do a lot of substituting.”

“A lot of our shots rimmed in and out,” said Valhalla coach JON OWENS. “ Mount Miguel is a spectacular team. Our kids are excited to go to the desert tomorrow (for the Imperial Valley-San Diego Challenge continuation) and hopefully have a better day.”

Mount Miguel scoring: Danesia Williamson 27 (12 ast, 3 reb, 6 stl), Autumn Spikes 13 (11 reb, 4 ast, 3 blk, 3 stl), Danielle Miller 11 (2 reb, 2 stl), Cindy Ekweozor 11 (7 reb), 2 blk), Trina Clark 9 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Shateara Anderson 6 (2 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Nicole Fountain 6 (4 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl).

Valhalla scoring: Emily Roberts 2 (7 reb), Kelley Seitz 1 (2 reb), Nichole Miller (3 reb), Megan Tex (2 reb), Tanisha Lee (4 reb), Kelani Blackwell (2 reb).

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (1-11-08) -- League schedules in the Grossmont Conference open Friday (Jan. 11), with Mount Miguel starting its quest for a long trek through the state playoffs beginning with another Grossmont South League title. Meanwhile, the Grossmont North League race is wide open, with cases being made for a host of ballclubs to secure the title.

GROSSMONT SOUTH LEAGUE
1. Mount Miguel -- It's not a case of Mount Miguel High taking the basketball home, thus no one can play. No, the Matadors want to share the basketball -- but no one wants to play them.

The frustrating reality is that head coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL's No. 2-ranked team in the San Diego Section has been denied several games starting with a SDCIF sanction. In addition, teams from the Grossmont North has opted out of playing the Matadors in Grossmont Conference Crossover games, forcing Sandoval to look outside of San Diego County to find opponents.

Sandoval troops are the favorites to capture the SDCIF Division II championship, and hope to do damage in the state regional playoffs, too.

The Matadors are led by some of the best talent in the region, paced by a pair of seniors who already own NCAA Division I scholarships in AUTUMN SPIKES ( San Jose State ) and CINDY EKWEOZOR ( San Francisco ).

Spikes, a 6-foot-1 power forward, is averaging 12.8 points per contest, while Ekweozor, a center who stands 6-foot-3, is a top rebounder and the runaway leader in foul shooting.

However, the leader of the offense is point guard DANESIA WILLIAMSON, who ranks second in East County in both scoring (21.0 ppg) and assists (5.4 avg.). She recently scored a season-high 26 points against Redondo Beach-Redondo Union, one of the state's top-ranked programs.

Williamson, a junior, has scored 72 points in her last three outings.

The core group of players lost only one senior from last season, leaving an experienced unit basically intact.

Leading the parade are all-league selections in seniors MOLLY HILLENBRAND (6-1) and AMY SYLVESTER (6-foot). Both play along the front line at forward or center, and either can score from the low post of the elbow (the high post). Throw in 5-10 LAUREN BENDER, and the Eagles (11-5) are tough to beat inside the paint.

However, the rising star may be sophomore point guard SABRINA JIMENEZ, a 3-point shooter who was tabbed MVP of the Colts-Eagles Classic earlier this season.

Williams, a multi-talented forward who has a San Jose State scholarship in hand, is the East County scoring leader with a 27-point average and is among the leaders in almost every other category.

The emergence of guard SINOI LEASAU and post KAMI OLIVER make the Highlanders (6-8) better than their record indicates.

GROSSMONT NORTH LEAGUE
1. El Capitan – Driven by the leadership of junior guard ASHLEY DUFFY, the best player in the GNL, makes the Vaqueros a slight favorite to capture the league laurels.

Unlike her older sister, ALLISON, who plays forward or center for San Diego State, Duffy is a guard who can pour the ball into the basket or get it to teammates -- she leads East County with 6.5 assists per outing.

The advantage for El Capitan (12-4) is more seasoned players than its competitors, featuring LIANA PITMAN, JAMIE FERGUSON and SAMANTHA SPRING.

West Hills opens the league campaign against the Vaqueros Friday (Jan. 11) in Lakeside.

Best thing West Hills has going is this a young, talented team. Playmaking guard MARILYN NADERHOFF (3.8 assists/game), KIMBERLY CLARK (14.5 ppg) and SHERIKA MILLER (12.2 ppg) are all sophomores.

Question here is can the Pack handle the pressure of a title-bearing game out of the chute?

CENTRAL LEAGUE
6. Christian – The Patriots are rebuilding from ground zero and hope to knock off a team or two in league play.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (1-10-08) — In a game matching two of East County’s better teams, the Granite Hills Eagles held off the Santana Sultans and proved that they will be a factor in the Grossmont South League race.

An 11-2 third-quarter run propelled Granite Hills to an impressive 49-45 Grossmont Conference crossover victory over visiting Santana Wednesday night (Jan. 9).

The Sultans (11-5) led 30-24 at halftime before the Eagles (11-5) pulled their 2nd half reversal.

“In the 3rd quarter we made some adjustments in our man-to-man defense to try to prevent their passes in the post,” explained Granite Hills coach JERRY PARKER. “And their post players are good.”

Senior MOLLY HILLENBRAND paced the Eagles paintball wars with 16 points, 12 rebounds, 5 steals and 4 assists.

Eagles senior AMY SYLVESTER harassed the Sultans inside as well, while contributing 10 points.

LAUREN BENDER also crashed the boards for Granite Hills, clearing 11 caroms while punching in 8 points.

“Amy Sylvester did a great job defensively,” Parker said. “She’s so long (6-feet) and athletic and coordinated – she has a long wing span.”

Granite Hills’ outside game was ignited by sophomore SABRINA JIMENEZ, who contributed 13 points, 4 assists and 3 steals.

Although she didn’t contribute in the scoring column, sophomore SAMANTHA SILVA came off the bench to lead the Eagles with 5 assists.

“Samantha Silva played a lot of minutes tonight,” Parker added. “She did a good job versus El Cajon Valley and it carried over into this game – she brought a lot of energy off the bench.”

Senior guard NICOLE BRZECZEK paced Santana with 14 points, including a trio of 3s.

JAMIE ELIAS also landed a pair of 3s and finished with 10 points for Santana.

Obviously upset by the outcome and performance of his team, Santana coach JIM MOTTERSHAW offered no further details.

“This was a huge win for us,” Parker added. “Since I have been in San Diego (came in 2000) I’ve watched a lot of high school games. I’ve always thought Santana has done a great job. I was extremely proud of our girls. The key was staying out of foul trouble – our starters were able to stay on the floor.”

Granite Hills scoring: Molly Hillenbrand 16 (4 ast, 5 stl, 1 blk), Sabrina Jimenez 13 (2 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Amy Sylvester 10 (3 reb, 1 blk), Lauren Bender 8 (1 blk), Kylee Wilson 2, Samantha Silva (4 reb, 5 ast).

GROSSMONT 57, HELIX 54 – Two of the top guards in East County were the focal point of Wednesday’s (Jan. 9) Grossmont Conference crossover contest between longtime rivals Grossmont and Helix.

Although there were no judges to declare the winner of the individual duel between Grossmont’s TINA RIOS and Helix’ BRITTANY WILLIAMS, the final numbers tell the story.

Some might find the results surprising, as Rios outscored Williams 24-16. Rios also gained a 7-3 advantage in assists and a 4-2 edge in steals. That had to do wonders to boost the confidence of the 5-foot-5 senior Rios, knowing that she more than held her own against the 5-foot-10, San Jose State bound Williams.

“It was a shoot-out between Grossmont’s best player, Tina Rios, and Helix’ best player, Brittany Williams,” observed Helix assistant coach WILLY HATHAWAY. “Rios played a great game – she deserves credit for the way she played.”

Naturally, Grossmont coach MARK DeFEDE was all smiles about Rios’ outing, which included landing a trio of 3-point buckets.

“Tina was full of energy, like she always is,” said DeFede. “We ran a lot of picks for her and she was able to take advantage.”

Victory did not come easily for Grossmont (6-7).

“The game was back and forth the whole way and we got up by 11,” said DeFede. “But Helix cut it down to one with 11 seconds left.”

Sophomore DANIELLE BALDERAS was fouled by the Highlanders and, with 10 seconds left, came through by hitting 2 free throws to secure the victory.

“Not bad for a sophomore to come through in the clutch like that,” praised her coach.

Another unsung hero for Grossmont was senior ALLISON BAXTER, who knocked down a trio of treys to finish with a career-high 12 points.

HEATHER SPRINGE contributed 10 points and 8 rebounds for the Foothillers, while TERRA MUSGROVE collected a team-best 10 rebounds and added 7 points.

Helix’ SINOI LEASAU led all scorers with 21 points, which included 4 for 4 free throw shooting.

KAMI OLIVER garnered a game-high 11 rebounds for the Scotties.

“Kami Oliver did a fabulous job on defense and on the boards tonight,” said Helix coach TRINA HANSEN. “The game came right down to the wire. The story is we made more mistakes late in the game than Grossmont did. I feel we’re ready for league to start. Our challenge will be to play 32 minutes of smart, consistent basketball. We haven’t been doing that very much yet all year.”

EL CAJON VALLEY 48, MONTE VISTA 28 – RANDY ROBINSON, the veteran coach of the El Cajon Valley Braves, recalls being involved in lop-sided games such as Wednesday’s (Jan. 9) Grossmont Conference crossover contest in Monte Vista. The difference this year is his Braves are on the long end of the score.

El Cajon Valley (7-10) used a 19-5 third quarter scoring spree to break open what was only a 3-point game at halftime.

SHERAINA MOON enjoyed a big night for El Cajon Valley. The senior guard registered a game-high 13 points, a career-best 10 steals, grabbed 6 rebounds and handed out 5 assists.

HAZEL DOE also enjoyed a productive outing with 9 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds.

“I was pretty pleased with our defense, because they got something like 20 steals,” Robinson said.

The Braves welcomed back TERICKA WILLIAMS, who made an immediate impact with 8 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists.

For Monte Vista, JANAY PATTON paced the Monarchs (0-11) with 10 points.

WEST HILLS 66, VALHALLA 17 – Nobody has come right out and said so, but West Hills rates as the team to beat in the Grossmont North League race which tips off on Friday (Jan. 11).

Consider the Wolf Pack ready for the challenge.

Coach RYAN KINSER’s crew hammered out a 44-9 halftime lead in Wednesday’s (Jan. 9) defeat over visiting Valhalla in Grossmont Conference crossover action.

Ten members of the Pack contributed to the scoring column as 10th-ranked West Hills improved to 12-4.

The leader of the Pack was SHERIKA MILLER, who scored 13 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. KIMBERLY CLARK added 10 points and 6 steals.

CONNIE HINES snagged 8 rebounds and notched 4 steals while tallying 5 points. CORRYN KIVETT offered 9 points and 5 rebounds, while AMBER DARBY scored 8 points and hauled in 4 rebounds. MARIAH BENNETT West Hills with 4 assists.

“We had an opportunity to run our sets all the way through on offense and work on things we need to prepare for our league games,” Kinser said. “We played real good defense through the entire game. I was really happy tonight with our overall effort.”

EMILY ROBERTS led Valhalla with 6 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists, while

KELSEY CARTMILL hit a pair of 3s to share scoring honors with Roberts.

“We had the best officiating that we’ve had all year,” said Valhalla coach JON OWENS. “Our (assigned) referees didn’t show up so JEFF GERKIN (from Valhalla ) and JOHN RUSSO (from West Hills) officiated. They did a good job.”

“I appreciate that Coach Kinser didn’t run up the score,” Owens added. “It was a real class act. West Hills is a good team and I appreciate the individual effort from my players.”

Valhalla scoring: Kelsey Cartmill 6 (3 reb), Emily Roberts 6 (6 reb, 2 ast), Nichole Miller 2 (3 reb), Tanisha Lee 2 (4 reb), Amy Woods 1 (4 reb), Megan Tex (4 reb), Erica Torgerson (2 reb), Kelley Seitz (2 reb), Britney Dollard (1 reb).

© East County Sports.com
LAKESIDE (1-8-08) — While Steele Canyon coach PENNY SMITH was fit to be tied by what he thought was poor officiating in Monday’s (Jan. 7) Grossmont Conference crossover game, El Capitan’s Vaqueros went about their business and registered an easy 64-36 victory over the visitors.

“Our girls were ready for this game,” said El Capitan coach FRANK QUINONES. “There were some things that happened this summer that our girls really wanted this game. We’re getting ready for West Hills (Friday, Jan. 11) so I pressed the whole game. This is a big game for both of us. We played hard until the very end. We’re down to eight girls on the team, and all of them contributed tonight.”

Steady ASHLEY DUFFY completed her usual double-double of 15 points and 10 steals to go along with 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the Vaqueros (12-4).

SAMANTHA SPRING added 12 points, 5 rebounds and 2 steals for El Capitan, which had all eight girls score.

CRISELA BANKS chipped in with 9 points, 6 rebounds and 3 steals, while ASHLEY BUNCE struck it rich from the free throw line by hitting 7 of 8 for 9 points.

Consensus of those in the know rate El Capitan as the team to beat in the Grossmont North. Although Quinones obviously agrees, he won’t come out and say so.

“This win was a nice way to start the 2nd season,” said Quinones. “I tell my girls there are three seasons: 1st is tournaments, 2nd is league and 3rd is playoffs. It would be nice to play four seasons this year.

Even though this was a non-league game, both coaches left with a bitter taste in their mouth.

One thing that really disappointed me was that girls I coached for 3 years wouldn’t shake my hand after the game tonight,” said Quinones, who was the Steele Canyon coach last year.

The Cougars’ Smith wasn’t upset with Quinones, but focused his ire on the men in the striped shirts.

“The referees decided the game in the 1st and 2nd quarters,” said Smith. “El Cap was the aggressive team. They just sat in the key and the refs didn’t call 3 seconds.”

BRIANA EITER hit a trio of 3s and wound up leading the Cougars (5-6) with 14 points before fouling out.

El Capitan scoring: Ashley Duffy 15, Samantha Spring 12, Ashley Bunce 9 (3 reb, 2 ast), Crisela Banks 9, Taylor Autry 6, Liana Pitman 6 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk), Britney Loring 4 (5 reb), Jamie Ferguson 3 (6 reb).

Steele Canyon scoring: Briana Eiter 14, Belinda Pickens 9, Julianne Kolegraff 5, Gabrielle Beasley 3, Jazmin Daigle 2, Katy Snew 2, Jacqueline McGovern 1.

The Sultans, who are allowing 42.3 points per game, stormed to a 19-2 first quarter lead and then extended that advantage to 35-10 by intermission.

“We need to work more on our rebounding and not commit as many fouls,” he said.

Even though Mottershaw is not making any bold predictions, his Sultans certainly have to be considered contenders for the Grossmont North League title.

JAMIE ELIAS led Santana’s offensive assault with 16 points.

Junior KAILA SMITH, who is becoming a force for the Sultans, rolled a double-double of 12 points and 14 rebounds.

Steady senior NICOLE BRZECZEK once again engineered a Santana attack, dealing 7 assists while popping in 10 points.

For Valhalla it was a game of survival.

Santana scoring: Jamie Elias 16, Kaila Smith 12, Nicole Brzeczek 10, Samantha White 7, Kim Gross 5, Mikaela Samuels 4, Alyssa Padberg 2 (5 reb, 5 ast), Chelsea Eason 2, Tawnya Proctor 2.

Valhalla scoring: Emily Roberts 7 (9 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Kelsey Cartmill 6, Kelani Blackwell 5 (2 reb, 1 blk), Megan Tex 4, Erica Torgerson 1, Kelley Seitz 1, Nichole Miller (6 reb), Amy Woods (3 reb).

MOLLY HILLENBRAND led the Eagles’ charge with 13 points and 6 rebounds, while LAUREN BENDER punched in a dozen points and bagged 7 boards.

As easily as this victory came to Granite Hills (9-5), there is mixed emotions whether the Eagles can hold off Helix in the battle for 2nd place in the Grossmont South League.

While the Eagles displayed their usual strength inside the paint, they were a little soft from the perimeter.

Granite Hills coach JERRY PARKER praised sophomore SAMANTHA SILVA for helping pick up the slack. Silva added 5 points from the outside – one more than starter KYLEE WILSON.

“Samantha Silva got a lot of minutes tonight,” said Granite Hills coach JERRY PARKER. “This was her first game starting. I thought she did a good job handling El Cajon ’s press.”

SHERAINA MOON paced El Cajon Valley with 10 points and 4 rebounds.

“These kids play so hard,” said Braves coach RANDY ROBINSON. “I thought (Granite Hills) was 30 points better than us going in. We’re doing a lot better. I’m not at all disappointed with the outcome tonight. Granite Hills is a pretty tough team – they are bigger than us. They kill us on the boards.”

Granite Hills scoring: Molly Hillenbrand 13 (6 reb), Lauren Bender 12 (7 reb), Samantha Silva 5, Kylee Wilson 4, Kari Hubert 3, Sabrina Jimenez 3, Alyssa Canoff 3, Monique Ybarra 2, Amy Sylvester (6 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk).

El Cajon Valley scoring: Sheraina Moon 10 (4 reb), Hazel Doe 7 (5 stl), Kaylani Faten 4, Jeena Norwarekar 2 (5 stl), Stephanie Jacobs 2, Kelly Wimberly (5 reb, 3 stl).

WEST HILLS 68, MADISON 12 – It was a perfect tune-up for West Hills, which has secured the No. 10 ranking in the Union-Tribune’s latest poll. Never have the Wolf Pack girls been ranked higher.

West Hills (11-4) sprinted out to a 32-6 halftime lead. For good measure West Hills closed out Monday’s (Jan. 7) non-league game with a 14-0 fourth quarter.

Not that there was ever any doubt, but West Hills has clearly established itself as the favorite to win the Grossmont North League title.

“This game gave us a good opportunity to put to use all those things we worked on in practice over the holidays,” said Kinser. “We showed good balance offensively – every player scored.”

Sophomore MARILYN NADERHOFF was the guiding light for the Wolf Pack with 10 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals and a block. CORRYN KIVETT matched that 10-point total.

West Hills scoring: Marilyn Naderhoff 10, Corryn Kivett 10 (3 reb), Sherika Miller 9 (6 reb, 3 stl, 1 blk), Danielle Hays 9 (2 reb), Mariah Bennett 9 (4 ast, 2 reb, 2 stl), Amber Darby 8 (6 reb), Kimberly Clark 7 (2 reb, 1 blk), Shelby Russo 2 (2 stl), Connie Hines 2 (4 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Becca Jones 2 (2 ast).

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (1-6-08) — Of the three East County teams that participated in Saturday’s (Jan. 5) Imperial Valley-San Diego Challenge at Spring Valley Community Gym, Steele Canyon came out on top.

The Cougars (5-5) claimed a double-header sweep over Calexico 41-38 and Imperial 43-34.

STEELE CANYON 41, CALEXICO 38 – One thing about this Steele Canyon squad is it is a team that no one player can qualify as the kingpin. That’s a good thing for first-year coach PENNY SMITH.

In the first game of Saturday’s (Jan. 5) twinbill it was freshman JULIANNE KOLEGRAFF who led the charge, hitting 9 of 13 shots from the field and 2 free throws en route to a game-high 20 points. Kolegraff also was a hawk on defense with 5 steals.

BRIANA EITER pitched in 9 points, including one trey, while BELINDA PICKENS chipped in a game-high 11 rebounds and 6 points. Junior MACE ALAMERI added 4 points and 4 steals.

“Kolegraff and Alameri stepped it up tonight,” said Smith. “This was a good job by our younger players. We set a good pace defensively in this game – our defense set the way for our offense. We pushed the ball up on offense and got some good looks on some open shots.”

Steele Canyon scoring: Julianne Kolegraff 20, Briana Eiter 9, Belinda Pickens 6, Mace Alameri 4, Jazmin Daigle 2.

STEELE CANYON 43, IMPERIAL 34 – Round Two of Steele Canyon’s participation of Saturday’s (Jan. 5) Imperial Valley-San Diego Challenge was dominated by BELINDA PICKENS, who equaled her season-high of 21 points and completed a double-double with a dozen rebounds.

“Belinda was dominant on both ends of the floor,” said Steele Canyon coach PENNY SMITH of the 5-foot-10 Pickens, who sank 10 of 15 shots from the field.

The Cougars pounced on the Tigers to lead 12-4 after one quarter and 21-13 by intermission.

MACE ALAMERI contributed 10 points and 5 steals for Steele Canyon. G’KIA MYLES collected 11 rebounds.

“We’re starting to play basketball the way I think it should be played,” said Smith. “I feel our effort in the first game carried over into the second game.”

“Monday’s (Jan. 7) game should be very interesting,” Smith added. “Our girls have been looking forward to playing El Cap.”

Steele Canyon scoring: Belinda Pickens 21, Mace Alameri 10, Katy Snew 6 (2 stl), Jazmin Daigle 2, G’kia Myles 2, Julianne Kolegraff 2.

“This is the worst game we’ve played in the last five years,” said Mount Miguel coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. “It’s not that Santa Margarita did anything special, it was more a case of we stunk offensively. I attribute that to the long lay-off.”

Mount Miguel’s biggest bugaboo was the personal foul.

“Our two big kids (AUTUMN SPIKES and CINDY EKWEOZOR) got in early foul trouble, and so did our point guard (DANESIA WILLIAMSON),” said Sandoval. “We can’t make silly fouls because we only have 7 players, and because our key kids were in foul trouble, it took away their aggressiveness.”

The game was tied 8-8 after one quarter before the Eagles took control with a 22-8 scoring run in the 2nd quarter.

Santa Margarita (17-1) made 19 of 20 free throws in the game. Mount Miguel hit 12 of 13 from the charity stripe, but totaled only 9 baskets. The Matadors (6-2) never scored more than 9 points in any quarter.

Williamson was Mount Miguel ’s offensive standout with 15 points, including a pair of treys. The junior guard also had 4 rebounds, 4 steals and 2 assists before fouling out.

Spikes added 7 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks, while Ekweozor picked off 8 rebounds, made 2 assists, blocked a shot and scored a mere 2 points before fouling out.

Mount Miguel scoring: Danesia Williamson 15, Autumn Spikes 7, Nicole Fountain 4 (5 reb, 2 stl), Shateara Anderson 2 (2 reb, 2 stl), Danielle Miller 2 (4 reb, 2 stl, 2 ast), Cindy Ekweozor 2.

EL CENTRO-CENTRAL 57, VALHALLA 42 – The Norsemen were unable to recover from a slow start as they fell to visiting Central in Saturday’s (Jan. 5) first game of the Imperial Valley-San Diego Challenge at the Spring Valley Community Gym.

Senior guard KELANI BLACKWELL put together an excellent game for the Norsemen, finishing with 20 points – one shy of her career high. Blackwell knocked down four 3-pointers.

Sophomore TANISHA LEE added 10 points and 3 steals, while junior EMILY ROBERTS contributed 10 rebounds, 5 assists and 8 points.

“Central Union got off to a good start and we never recovered,” said Valhalla coach JON OWENS. “Kelani Blackwell played an outstanding game.”

Valhalla scoring: Kelani Blackwell 20 (2 reb, 2 blk), Tanisha Lee 10, Emily Roberts 8, Kelsey Cartmill 4, Amy Woods (4 reb).

EL CENTRO-SOUTHWEST 43, VALHALLA 31 – KELANI BLACKWELL put together an impressive double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to lift Valhalla past the visiting Eagles in Saturday’s (Jan. 5) second game of the Imperial Valley-San Diego Challenge in Spring Valley.

Blackwell also had 3 steals and 2 assists for the Norsemen (2-8).

Outside of Blackwell’s 7 baskets the Norsemen scored only 9 points from the floor. They weren’t a whole lot better from the free throw line, where they converted only 8 of 20 chances.

Valhalla was strong on the boards. EMILY ROBERTS claimed 10 boards and 5 assists, while TANISHA LEE corralled 8 caroms off the glass. AMY WOODS chipped in 6 rebounds.

“We didn’t play all that well as a team,” said Valhalla coach JON OWENS. “Kelani Blackwell played another great all-around game. These were our first games in two weeks – we were a little stale after all the time away from basketball.”

Valhalla scoring: Kelani Blackwell 18, Kelsey Cartmill 5, Nichole Miller 2, Erica Torgerson 2, Amy Woods 2, Emily Roberts 1, Megan Tex 1.

Freshman ALEX ROSS narrowly missed a 3-point shot at the buzzer that, had it connected, would have snapped Monte Vista’s 10-game losing streak.

“It was right online, but just a little short,” said Monarchs coach MICHAEL SKIBBE.

This one had to hurt as the Monarchs began the final quarter leading 31-21. The Eagles (5-9) led the final eight minutes, gaining a 15-6 scoring edge for the win.

“Southwest exploded in the last quarter,” Skibbe said. “We played right with them the whole game. I feel we’re growing in the right direction.”

Monte Vista scoring: Jill Miranda 8, DeAnna Bembry 8 (4 blk, 2 stl), Janay Patton 8, Alex Ross 4, Ashley Weatherford 3, Randi Houser 2, Megan Boyce 2, LiAiesha Brandon 2.

EL CENTRO-CENTRAL 72, MONTE VISTA 43 – The visiting Spartans broke open a close game with a 27-9 second quarter eruption and rolled past the Monarchs in Saturday’s (Jan. 5) Imperial Valley-San Diego Challenge at the Spring Valley Community Gym.

Junior LiAIESHA BRANDON paced the Monarchs with 11 points, while freshman DeANNA BEMBRY rolled in 8 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and made 4 steals.

Senior JANAY PATTON pitched in a team-high 11 rebounds, 7 points and 2 blocks.

Senior AILENE PAMINTUAN sank a pair of 3s to finish with 8 points for the Monarchs.

“We were a little overmatched,” said Monte Vista coach MICHAEL SKIBBE. “We played hard and competed the whole game. We’re starting to get production from all 11 players – I like where we are going.”

Monte Vista scoring: LiAiesha Brandon 11, Ailene Pamintuan 8, DeAnna Bembry 8, Janay Patton 7, Megan Boyce 4, Kayla Pusey 3, Albers 2.

© East County Sports.com
SAN YSIDRO (1-5-08) — For the first time this season El Cajon Valley posted an early lead and made it stand up for the full 32 minutes Friday (Jan. 4) as the Braves edged host San Ysidro in a non-league game 28-27.

“Our girls were really excited about being able to hang on under pressure in the final seconds,” said Braves coach RANDY ROBINSON. “It’s unusual for us to be in a position to protect the lead.”

With El Cajon Valley (6-9) leading 28-25 with 5 seconds remaining, San Ysidro’s Rachel Tucker stepped to the free throw line for three shots and a chance to tie. Tucker hit the first shot, missed the second and made the third.

“It took us three tries to get the ball inbounds but we finally did it and ran out the clock,” said Robinson.

SHERAINA MOON led the Braves with 9 points, 5 steals and 5 rebounds.

KAYLANI FATEN added 9 points, while SAMANTHA JULIEN topped the Braves on the boards with 7 rebounds.

Robinson noted one of the keys to the victory was the Braves’ defensive work against Tucker, who was limited to 9 points – about half her season average.

“Sheraina was all over her – stayed with her the whole game,” Robinson said. “I also rotated HAZEL DOE in there when Sheraina needed rest.”

El Cajon Valley scoring: Sheraina Moon 9, Kaylani Faten 9, Jeena Norwarekar 6, Samantha Julien 2.