El Capitan's Tyson Kyger (Photo by Leslie Autry) VIEW ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Garrett Larch-Miller of Granite Hills (left) skies to challenge the shot attempt by Helix' Titus Young. (Photo by Tony Bordine) VIEW ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Scotties place finishing touches on GHL crown By Andrew Smith © Special to East County Sports.com LA MESA (2-19-11) — Granite Hills went on the road Friday night (Feb. 18) to try and tarnish the crown of Grossmont Hills League champion Helix and spoil the Highlanders' senior night, but the Eagles ran out of gas in the second half as the Scotties would eventually prevail, 48-34. Granite Hills (17-11, 5-5) senior guard GARRETT LARCH-MILLER came out in the first half dominating, contributing on 20 of the Eagles first half 24 points, by scoring 14 and also assisting on 3 other field goals. Helix would counter that with guards TOMMIE and TITUS YOUNG scoring 15 of the Highlanders' 21 first-half points, as the game went to halftime with Granite Hills leading 24-21. "It's been great playing with him," senior Tommie said of his sophomore brother Titus. "We really just feed off each other during the game and know where each other is at all times." After seeing Larch-Miller put the Eagles up at halftime Helix then came out with a new game plan for the second half. "We wanted to get the ball out of his (Larch-Miller) hands by doubling him, speed the game up a little bit and that would give us a better opportunity to win," Helix head coach JOHN SINGER stated, days after winning his 14th league title in 30 years. The second half the Scotties came out and dominated play, outscoring the Eagles 27-10 behind 16 points combined by the Young brothers and 9 more from 6-foot-3 senior center KENNY KEYS. Tommie Young gave Helix its first lead of the game at 31-30 with a 3-pointer with 19 seconds left in the third quarter and would go on to finish the game with 24 points, including a season-high 5 shots made from behind the arc. "They got behind and started to press and it really got our guys open for some wide-open shots and Tommie had a great night shooting," Singer said of Young's final regular season home game as a Highlander. "We came out early to practice," Young remarked. "I don't know how to explain it, tonight my shots just fell." Six-foot-9 SCOTT ATKINSON took only two shots and finished with 5 points for Granite Hills. On the flip side, the Eagles junior collected 10 rebounds and blocked 13 shots. Keys was not to be outshadowed putting up a double-double with 13 points and 13 boards. Keys might be headed to UNLV as a free safety for the Rebels football team, but without the center's inside play the Highlanders (20-6, 9-1) might not be where they are as the playoff seedings are announced Saturday. Helix (20-6, 9-1) is hoping for a top four seed in the San Diego CIF Division II bracket. Granite Hills is looking at a possible top 10 seed in Division I. Granite Hills: Garrett Larch-Miller 16 (5 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl, 4 blk), Dalton Otineru 11 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 3 blk), Scott Atkinson 5 (10 reb, 13 blk), Nate Jeter 2 (1 reb), Joey Grubb (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk), James Sadik (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl). Helix: Tommie Young 24 (2 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Kenny Keys 13 (13 reb), Titus Young 7 (2 reb, 2 ast), Brian Valadez 2 (7 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk), John Singer 2 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Kene Anigbogu (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Gary Thompson (1 reb), Michael Todd (1 reb).

A Fan Frenzy for Frank Foggiano, the veteran head coach of the Grossmont Foothillers. HEY! YOU STOLE THAT PICTURE FROM EAST COUNTY SPORTS! ROYALTIE$, PLEASE! (Photo by Nathan Price, youatplay.com)

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SANTEE (2-19-11) — Santana senior TREY BASS may not be the prototype point guard but somehow he gets the job done with regular consistency for the Sultans.

As valuable as Bass is on the floor, he took only one shot in the first half of Friday’s (Feb. 18) Grossmont Valley League title-clinching victory over visiting El Capitan.

For the record he made that shot and finished the half with 3 points in a game that was tied 38-all by intermission.

But the game of basketball is not all about which player scores the most points. Bass went on to tally 11 markers while dishing 10 assists and collecting 14 rebounds to lead Santana to a 68-56 win over the Vaqueros.

No question Bass was the boss of the court. When given the opportunity he made 5 of 8 shots. He also recorded 3 steals as the Sultans (19-8, 6-2 GVL) secured a share of the GVL title with Mount Miguel.

“We’re looking for a 3 or 4 seed in the (San Diego CIF Division III) playoffs,” Sultans coach TIM BARRY said. “I think it will be a battle between us and Mount Miguel who gets the 3 or the 4.”

Santana, which held four leads and was tied with the Vaqueros six times, took the lead for keeps on a pair of free throws by RYAN BICKFORD that staked Santana to a 47-45 edge midway through the third quarter.

“When we play all facets of the game we’re pretty collectively great,” said Bass.

Santana used a 19-4 run that cast the Sultans into a 66-49 advantage with 4:34 remaining that all but ended the game.

Playing in front of a full house helped spur the Sultans.

Putting teams away has not been a Santana strength this year.

“Coach (Barry) always says when you have a team on their back, step on their throat…well, not literally, but you know…,” said Bass.

Bickford, who is recovering from a thumb injury, is becoming more of a force inside for the Sultans.

“The assertiveness in how Bickford is going to the hole now when he gets the ball inside makes him such a huge difference maker,” said Barry. “He’s really making the extra effort and taking the extra dribble to get there.”

Bickford was 6-for-10 from the floor and 6-for-6 from the floor line for a team-best 18 points.

“We just shut them down in the second half,” said Bickford. “I think we’re getting better every game and we want to carry that into the playoffs.”

El Capitan junior TYSON KYGAR scored a game-high 27 points to lead the Vaqueros. Most of his action came from the free throw line where he converted 14 of 18 free throws.

“It’s like it’s been all season – we need other guys to step up to do things,” said El Capitan coach JASON CAVAZOS. “We can’t count on one or two guys to carry us. With the team we have this year we have to be perfect or we won’t win games.

“We did a lot of things well in the first half, but because we only have eight guys we became a little bit fatigued in the second half, and that hurt us.”

All of the participants on the floor were amazed by the overflow crowd at Santana.

“I told my kids before the game that school is about community, your friends and people here,” Barry said. “That was what showed tonight. What an experience to have played in front of an excited crowd like that.”

Bickford agreed, saying, “It really gets you in the game with a crowd screaming for you like that.”

Santana: Ryan Bickford 18 (8 reb, 2 ast, 2 blk, 2 stl), Trey Bass 11 (14 reb, 10 ast, 1 blk, 3 stl), Landon Lozoya 10 (5 reb, 5 ast, 1 blk, 5 stl), Jordan Khalaf 9 (4 reb, 1 stl), Christian Barry 8 (2 reb), Jason Corbisez 7 (1 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Mike Rosolino 5 (3 reb, 2 ast), James Doherty (1 stl).

El Capitan: Tyson Kygar 27 (8 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Cody Kygar 12 (7 reb), Nestor Ramirez 6 (2 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Anthony Agunat 6 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Austin Betts 2 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Austin Digenan 2 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Kameron Brown 1 (4 reb).

West Hills guard Jeron Satterfield splits between Grossmont's Robby Nesovic and DeSean Waters for the layin, (CLICK photo to see the basket) (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE MORE PHOTOS

However, Grossmont closed Friday's (Feb. 18) regular season finale by draining 8-of-14 shots from the floor, clinching second place in the Grossmont Hills League. Included were 3-balls by AUSTIN SWISHER and MICHAEL WNEK sandwiched around a coast-to-coast layin by DeSEAN WATERS to open the fourth period.

The slow Grossmont start was anticipated after mathematically losing any chance at repeating as league champions earlier in the week. But the Hillers regained their rhythm in hopes for a deep postseason run.

"We didn't come out with intensity like we should have," said ROBBY NESOVIC, who paced Grossmont with game-highs of 17 points and 9 rebounds. "But we made some late shots to give us the lead."

West Hills stayed with Grossmont on the boards, batting to a 31-31 draw in rebounds to stay in contention for three periods. However, superior Foothillers ball-handling gave the hosts too many extra chances to score (only 9 turnovers against 18 by the Pack).

At least the future for West Hills looks sound after a trio of underclassmen scored in double figures.

Junior ALEX PARSONS led the parade with 15 points, 9 rebounds and he took a charge on defense. JERON SATTERFIELD posted 12 points and 8 assists, while NICK FINDLEY added 11 points and included a trio of 3-balls.

For Grossmont, Wnek snapped the tied game with a 3-ball – part of his 15 points – to snare a 40-37 advantage, igniting a 17-5 scoring run. Earlier, Waters was the Hillers’ lone consistent scorer, registering 11 of his 16 points in the first half to gain a 30-28 advantage at the break.

Meanwhile, DEREK RUSTICH just missed a double-double with 11 points and 9 boards.

West Hills made great strides in the rematch despite coming up short. The Wolf Pack, which was massacred 77-51 in the first round, trailed only 30-28 by the end of the first half in the second round.

Grossmont will certainly earn a playoff spot while West Hills is a probable entry in the SDCIF Division II playoffs. That will be determined when Saturday’s (Feb. 19) pairings are posted.

Grossmont: Robby Nesovic 17 (9 reb, 4 stl, 2 ast, 1 blk), DeSean Waters 16 (4 stl, 4 ast, 3 reb), Michael Wnek 15 (2 ast, 1 stl, 1 reb), Derek Rustich 11 (9 reb, 3 stl, 1 blk), Austin Swisher 3 (1 ast), Nick Persinger 2 (4 reb), Ryan Green 2 (1 stl, 1 ast), J.T. Barnes 1 (1 reb).

West Hills: Alex Parsons 15 (9 reb, 2 blk, 2 stl, 2 ast, 1 charge), Jeron Satterfield 12 (8 ast, 7 reb, 1 blk), Nick Findley 11 (1 ast), Kevin Straub 7 (3 ast, 2 reb, 1 blk), D.J. Lewis 5 (6 reb, 1 blk, 1 ast), Jonny Preston 5 (5 reb, 2 stl, 1 ast), Joey Clark 2 (2 ast, 1 blk, 1 reb).

Steele Canyon's Andrew King gets blocked from behind Valhalla's Spencer Havird while challenged by Norsemen forward David Wilschetz (20).

Valhalla guard Andrew Lewellen goes baseline. (Photos by Ruth Mims) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

The Cougars held host Valhalla to 29 points in Friday’s (Feb. 18) Grossmont Hills League finale and came away with their 10th victory in a game most people would call an upset.

“In games we’ve won, the most points we’ve allowed an opponent is 53,” Stephens said.

The Cougars (10-18, 3-8 GHL) have won two of their final three contests and figure to qualify for the San Diego CIF Division II playoffs.

The swing period in the victory over Valhalla was the third quarter when the Cougars erased a 19-16 deficit with a 16-4 scoring run.

“I thought we made a nice recovery since we down 9-0 at the start of the game,” Stephens noted.

However, like all successful coaches, Stephens credited his team’s defense for creating the victory. The Cougars held the Norsemen (14-12, 5-5 GHL) to 12 points in the middle two periods.

“Our defense was much stronger in the second half,” Stephens said. “In the first half, 17 of the 19 points we gave up came inside the paint from (DAVID) WILSCHETZ and MANNY (HERNANDEZ).”

In the second half the Norsemen’s inside duo was limited to 11 points.

Stephens credited CASEY BALIKIAN and P.J. RUSSELL for doing the bulk of the defensive work on Valhalla ’s inside twins.

“And you have to give ANDREW KING credit for giving us 15 points and playing all 32 minutes,” Stephens said. “He stabilized our offense and did a great job of breaking their press.

“We don’t lead anybody in making layups, but we did a pretty good job of finishing in this game.”

A rising star for Steele Canyon is DANNY BWINIKA, who led the Cougars with 16 points and 8 rebounds.

“He’s probably averaging double digits in league,” Stephens said of Bwinika.

Steele Canyon outscored Valhalla 10-1 from the free throw line.

Wilschetz finished with 16 points, 11 rebounds and 4 blocks to lead the Norsemen.

“We just couldn’t get anything going in the third quarter,” said Valhalla coach KEITH JACKSON. “Actually we never got any momentum the whole game.”

Both teams are in SDCIF Division II. Valhalla is hoping for a No. 7 seed, while Steele Canyon is seeking a seed of 14 or better.

“We don’t want to go into the playoffs at No. 1 Lincoln or No. 2 Hoover in the first round,” Stephens said.

Steele Canyon: Danny Bwinika 16 (8 reb, 3 stl, 1 ast), Andrew King 15 (3 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Michael Jordan 7 (7 reb, 3 stl), Casey Balikian 7 (5 reb, 3 stl, 1 ast), P.J. Russell 6 (4 reb, 3 stl, 1 ast), Dylan Kirchhofer 2 (2 reb).

Valhalla: David Wilschetz 16 (11 reb, 4 blk, 1 stl), Manny Hernandez 12 (8 reb, 1 ast, 5 blk, 4 stl), Chris Shields 4 (1 stl), Josh McClenachen 3 (1 blk), Spencer Havird 2 (5 ast, 2 reb, 1 blk, 4 stl), Amil Hermiz 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Thomas McDonald (2 reb, 2 stl).

MOUNT MIGUEL 71, EL CAJON VALLEY 44 – Visiting Mount Miguel secured its second straight Grossmont Valley League championship Friday (Feb. 18) by dusting El Cajon Valley in the regular season finale for both teams. The Matadors were actually co-champions with Santana, but hope to gain a higher seed in the San Diego CIF Division III playoffs.

Junior THOMAS BUTLER bulled his way to 23 points and 14 rebounds for the Matadors (20-7, 6-2 GVL). He scored six points and as did MARCUS BOOKER, propelling Mount Miguel to a 16-6 lead in the opening quarter.

Straight ahead is Mount Miguel ’s quest to capture a second SDCIF Division III crown.

“I like to think we should be somewhere between a No. 2 and a No. 4,” Matadors coach JAY ROWLETT said. “At this point I have to be pleased that we’ve accomplished two of the three goals we set for the season. We are league champions and we’ve won 20 games.”

Rowlett made it clear that he was pleased with his club’s defense against the Braves (2-22, 0-8 GVL). Nearly half of the Braves’ markers came in the first three quarters.

El Cajon Valley senior DOMINIQUE MILLER finished with a game high 24 points, including 7-for-8 free throw shooting.

“I know he’s a good player, but 15 of his points came in the 4th quarter after the game was over,” Rowlett said.

Mount Miguel: Thomas Butler 23 (14 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Marcus Booker 19 (4 ast), Izzy Wagner 12 (3 ast, 2 stl), Cory Littleton 7 (3 ast, 9 reb), Mohamud Abdi 6 (2 ast, 8 reb), Safen Mohammed (2 reb).

El Cajon Valley: Dominique Miller 24, Brenden Brocious 9, Diante Ashby 5, Butrus 4, Corey Evens 2.

CORONADO 53, CHRISTIAN 45 – The visiting Patriots made a gallant effort at attempting to upset Central League champion Coronado in Friday’s (Feb. 18) regular season finale on the Silver Strand Peninsula.

The first half belonged Coronado (23-5, 11-1 CL) as the Islanders bounced in front of the Patriots, 30-19.

”It wasn’t until the third quarter that we started digging back into their lead,” said Christian assistant coach DEREK LARSEN. “Three minutes into the fourth quarter Christian had a 3-point lead. Then we had a couple of unfortunate turnovers, and then we had to foul and they made their free throws.”

On the bright side, Christian received steady offensive output from junior SHANE DILLION, who delivered a double-double of 17 points and 11 rebounds. Senior AARON HUESLEIN also came up big for the Patriots with 11 points, 6 rebounds and 5 steals.

“We did a good job handling ( Coronado ’s) pressure and pressing the ball down court, but it was too little too late,” Larsen said.

Christian: Shane Dillon 17 (11 reb, 3 ast, 4 blk, 2 stl), Aaron Hueslein 11 (6 reb, 5 ast, 1 blk, 3 stll), Jake Larsen 5 (6 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Clarence Carter 5 (4 reb, 1 ast), Tyrone Sauls 4 (5 reb, 2 ast), Trenton Sauls 3 (3 reb, 1 stl), Tyler Ballard (1 reb).

Granite Hills' Joey Grubb (left) with the jump shot over Derek Rustich of Grossmont. (Photo by Nathan Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Spoiler Eagles eliminate defending champs Helix clinches yet another league championship © East County Sports.com EL CAJON (2-16-11) — Granite Hills High senior GARRETT LARCH-MILLER worked harder than he has all season to earn 41 points Tuesday (Feb. 15) as he guided host Granite Hills past Grossmont, denying the visiting Foothillers any chance of repeating as Grossmont Hills League champions. Grossmont tried several different combination in an attempt to slow down the red-hot East County scoring leader, who broke the 40-point barrier for the fourth time this season. “I thought it was a quiet 41 points, very economical, considering he wasn’t throwing up a lot of shots,” noted Granite Hills coach RANDY ANDERSON after the Eagles flew past the Foothillers 64-55. Using their best players in an effort to put the brakes on Larch-Miller failed for Grossmont (17-9, 6-3 GHL), as the Granite Hills scoring junkie tallied 19 of the Eagles first 21 points, staking Granite Hills to a 21-15 lead in the second quarter. For the game Larch-Miller nailed 14 of 27 shots from the field – including 3 triples – and 10 of 12 free throws. He came up 4 points short of his career high but it didn’t matter as the Eagles (18-10, 5-4 GHL) were allowed to play spoiler. “That’s the first time I’ve beat them in my whole high school career,” Larch-Miller said of the Foothillers. “It feels good to finally get ‘em. And it’s pretty sweet that we didn’t let them win league a second time in a row.” Larch-Miller didn’t feel that he’d done anything different in his latest outing. “I was just trying to play my game,” he said. “The last time I took too many tough shots, but I tried to create more space tonight, get easier looks.” Larch-Miller doffed his cap to Grossmont junior ROBBY NESOVIC, who refused to give the Eagles’ sharp-shooter uncontested shots. “Nesovic was playing good defense, trying to beat me on my first dribble,” he continued. “But I just had it goin’ tonight.” Larch-Miller is more humble than people might think as he always wants to talk more about his team than just his scoring. “I’ve got to get everyone into it,” he said. “I bring up the ball a lot so I look for all the options. If we would have just done what we did the last time we faced Grossmont, when I shot the ball 40 times and we lost (60-48), the results would have probably been the same. Tonight other people scored.” Granite Hills built a 29-17 lead late in the first half. The key to that was Granite Hills defense limiting Nesovic to 2 free throws. Grossmont came out in a rush in the third quarter, chopping Granite Hills’ advantage to 35-33 with less than 3 minutes left in the period. The Eagles could have buckled but did not as Larch-Miller scored the final 7 points in the quarter to give Granite Hills a 42-33 advantage. Granite Hills extended its advantage to 52-40 as Larch-Miller landed a 3-pointer with 3:06 remaining and then it turned into a free throw shooting contest. A 3-point bucket by Nesovic cut Granite Hills lead to 57-51 but it didn’t matter as the Eagles salted away the victory on 3 free throws by Larch-Miller and a pair from JOEY GRUBB. They also pulled a page out of the Duke Blue Devils’ playbook when the Eagles’ DALTON OTINERU delivered a long inbounds pass to Larch-Miller, who turned it into a layup with 28 seconds left. “Those last 3 minutes were the longest 3 minutes of my life,” said Otineru, who – along with Grubb – shared defensive duties on Nesovic. “I’ve always hated Grossmont since they swept us last year. I didn’t want them to sweep us again. “I think we shut down Nesovic pretty good and that’s one of the keys to beating Grossmont.” Grubb, sophomore who began the season as the Eagles sixth man, contributed 10 points and 3 assists. He made two nifty spin moves for baskets against the taller Foothillers. “I’ve always wanted to try those moves and I was just feeling it a lot today,” Grubb said. MICHAEL WNEK bucketed 6 triples to lead the Foothillers with 18 points. “This was big game for (Grossmont) and I’m glad we were able to take it away from them,” Grubb added. Granite Hills: Garrett Larch-Miller 41 (13 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Joey Grubb 10 (3 ast, 1 reb, 1 stl), Scott Atkinson 6 (12 reb, 2 blk), Dalton Otineru 5 (4 reb, 3 ast), Nate Jeter 2 (3 reb, 3 ast), Blake Perry (2 reb), Stephen Keppel (1 reb). Grossmont: Michael Wnek 18 (3 reb), Robby Nesovic 14 (8 reb, 4 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Derek Rustich 13 (7 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), DeSean Waters 8 (4 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Austin Swisher 2 (4 reb, 1 ast), Nick Persinger (2 reb), Ryan Green (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (2-16-11) — Santana High juniors LANDON LOZOYA and RYAN BICKFORD proved to be impact players down in the stretch in Tuesday's (Feb. 15) Grossmont Valley League elimination contest.

Lozoya, a forward, utilized five treys to pour in 17 of his game-high 32 points in the third period, then Bickford tallied 14 of his 15 points in the fourth period, allowing the Sultans to rally from a 9-point halftime deficit to storm past host Monte Vista, 76-61.

The Monarchs' disappointing setback deprived the ballclub of its first league title in more than a decade, unless both of Friday's season-ending GVL games result in upsets. However, there was little cheering from Santana's side of the court, knowing more work needs to be done.

"We had three goals in mind to close the regular season," noted Sultans coach TIM BARRY. "This was only goal No. 2."

Santana closes the season at home to archrival El Capitan, needing a victory to gain at least a share of its first league crown since the 2005-06 season. The Sultans are currently tied for the top spot with idle Mount Miguel, which closes the season against last-place El Cajon Valley.

Such a position in the standings as a potential league titlist was unlikely after Santana jumped out to a quick 7-0 lead, only to trail Monte Vista, 38-29, at the half.

"When JASON (CORBISEZ) made that shot, it got our bench going and the game definitely changed," noted Lozoya. "Everything then started to happen – it was the key to the game."

Monte Vista posted 9-point leads several times early in the second half, but never garnered a double-digit lead – a significant psychological factor which kept Santana in the contest. Then the Sultans started to drain shots from the outside.

Lozoya converted five of his seven 3-balls in the third, trimming the deficit down to 51-49, then Bickford tied the game on a putback to open the fourth quarter.

Monte Vista attempted to stop the bleeding by switching its defense with a full-court press and trap, but it only made matters worse.

The press break saw Bickford take a feed from JORDAN KHALAF for a layin and the lead at 58-56 with 3:36 remaining, then Corbisez drained his deep 3-pointer. The shot was part of an 8-for-10 shooting spree down the stretch by Santana, which also went 11-for-11 from the foul line in the fourth period.

While Corbisez' surprising shot kept the momentum going, the rest of the team quickly followed.

Lozoya forced a turnover by taking a charge in front of the basket, then TREY BASS shocked the taller Monarchs by powering inside for a tip-in bucket.

"We wanted it more and just played harder than they did," added Bickford. "And when we started to hit some outside shots, it opened up our entire offense."

Meanwhile, Monte Vista never went away from the press, which Santana maneuvered past with a series of over-the-top passes, pacing the visitors to a 27-10 scoring advantage in the fourth quarter (47-23 for the second half).

Monte Vista closed the first half strongly behind JAMES JACKSON and RUEBEN NWANDO.

Jackson finished with team highs of 23 points and 15 rebounds, while Nwando scored half of 22 points in the second period to key a 20-4 run. However, the Monarchs ran out of gas, making just 4-of-18 shots in the final quarter.

Meanwhile, Corbisez scored in every period for his 15 points, plus seven boards. Bass finished with 7 points, along with team-highs of 8 boards and 5 assists.

Santana: Landon Lozoya 32 (5 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl, 2 blk, 1 charge), Ryan Bickford 15 (6 reb, 3 blk, 1 stl), Jason Corbisez 15 (7 reb, 2 stl, 2 ast), Trey Bass 7 (8 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl), Jordan Khalaf 6 (4 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Michael Rosolino 2 (2 stl, 2 reb), David Levens-Lowery (2 reb).

Monte Vista: James Jackson 23 (15 reb, 4 ast, 1 blk), Rueben Nwando 22 (7 stl, 7 reb, 2 stl), Brian Sterling 7 (1 blk, 1 stl, 1 ast), K.J. Houston 7 (3 ast, 1 blk, 1 reb), Kylie Luster 2 (7 reb, 3 blk, 2 ast, 2 stl), Devin Rendo (4 reb), Xavier Daniels (2 reb), Jahzdion Taylor (1 reb).

Trey Bass (23) paced Santana with team highs in rebounds, assists and steals to down Monte Vista in GVL action. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

The slam by Monte Vista's Rueben Nwando. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

HELIX 48, STEELE CANYON 31 – The Highlanders rebounded from a loss last Friday to Grossmont to smack Steele Canyon Tuesday (Feb. 15) and lock up its 14th Grossmont League championship during coach JOHN SINGER’s 30-year reign at the reins.

The Highlanders (19-6, 8-1 GHL) were anything but overwhelming in the first half as they led only 20-17 at the break.

“I was worried about possible residue, coming off that loss,” Singer said. “We were shaky early, no doubt about that.”

It was a different ballgame in the third quarter, however, as the Highlanders used a 19-3 scoring advantage to break the game open.

“We matched them defense for defense in the first half,” Steele Canyon coach DEREK STEPHENS said. “But we must have missed 7 layups. We were terrible in the third quarter though, and that was the difference in the game.”

Helix senior KENNY KEYS scored 9 of his game-high 16 points in the third quarter while BRIAN VALADEZ tallied 6 of his 10 during that span.

Probably the biggest swing in the pivotal third was Helix used a double post, Stephens said.

“The big thing with Valadez is he played with his back to the basket in the second half instead of just shooting everything from the outside,” Singer said.

Singer also noted that Keys had 22 rebounds and did the job defensively on (the Cougars’ best inside player) MICHAEL JORDAN. A 6-foot-1 junior, Jordan was limited to 6 points and 3 rebounds.

“To me, I think Keys validated himself as player of the year in our league,” Singer added.

Steele Canyon (9-18, 2-7 GHL) shot only 27 percent from the field (12 of 45).

Helix has won 11 of its last 12 and 15 of its last 17.

“This was one of the most fun groups I’ve ever coached,” said Singer. “They’re not the most talented or the most skilled, but they do a lot of stuff right.”

Helix: Kenny Keys 16 (22 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk), Brian Valadez 10 (3 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk), Tommie Young 6 (2 reb, 8 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), John Singer 4 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Michael Todd 5 (1 ast), Kene Anigbogu 3 (3 reb), Titus Young 2 (2 reb, 5 ast), Kevin Williams 2, Earl Schexnayder (1 reb, 1 stl), Vann Sabin (1 blk).

Steele Canyon: Danny Bwinika 9 (1 ast, 2 stl), Andrew King 6 (3 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), Michael Jordan 6 (3 reb), P.J. Russell 3 (3 reb, 2 stl), Reggie White 3 (6 reb), Dylan Kirchhofer 2 (2 ast, 2 stl), Casey Balikian 2 (6 reb, 3 ast).

VALHALLA 57, WEST HILLS 42 – Folks around Valhalla are pretty glad to have senior DAVID WILSCHETZ back on campus. After missing three games on a school sponsored trip out of the country, Wilschetz returned with a bang in Tuesday’s (Feb. 15) Grossmont Hills League encounter at West Hills.

The 6-foot-3 forward connected on 10 of 19 shots from the field and 7 of 7 free throws for 27 points to lead the Norsemen (14-11, 5-4 GHL). The refreshed Wilschetz also snared 19 rebounds, blocked 3 shots, made 3 steals and dished 2 assists.

“David stepped up big for us tonight,” said Valhalla coach KEITH JACKSON. “It was nice to have him back. West Hills fought us toe-to-toe.”

Valhalla outscored the Wolf Pack in all four quarters.

“It could have been an easy game for us to let down after our last game (a 53-50 win over Granite Hills),” Jackson said. “Tonight was a tough game – a big win for us, coming off our emotional game on Friday. West Hills played really hard and really pushed us tonight. We didn’t shoot the ball very well but we found a way to win.”

The score was 44-33 going into the 4th quarter.

West Hills (8-18, 1-8 GHL) fought back to within five with 4 minutes remaining.

“It was a very physical game,” said Wolf Pack assistant coach LUCAS ARMSTRONG. “PEANUT (HERRADA – just brought up from the freshman team) scored 5 points off the bench. He made a long 3 at the buzzer at the end of the third quarter. He held his own for being a freshman.”

Valhalla: David Wilschetz 27 (19 reb, 2 ast, 3 blk, 3 stl), Spencer Havird 11 (3 reb, 4 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Manny Hernandez 6 (8 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 3 stl), Kevin Mills 4 (3 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl), Thomas McDonald 4 (1 reb, 1 ast), Andrew Lewellen 2 (2 reb), William Speegle 2 (1 reb), Amil Hermiz 1 (1 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Andrew Lozoya (1 reb, 1 stl), Chris Shields (1 reb).

West Hills: DJ Lewis 8 (1 blk), Jeron Satterfield 6 (6 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Alex Parsons 5 (7 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 4 blk), Peanut Herrada 5 (2 reb), Joey Clark 4, Ralph Bedoe 4 (1 reb, 1 ast), Nick Findley 3 (2 reb, 1 ast), Kevin Straub 3 (1 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Justin Sun 2 (1 reb, 1 ast), Jonny Preston 2 (4 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl).

El Capitan's Tyson Kygar (32) faces a double-team against El Cajon Valley, including Diante Ashby (3). (Photo by Leslie Autry) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

Cody Kygar was 11 of 17 from the field, including five 3-pointers as he finished with a season-high 30 points.

Tyson Kygar led the supporting cast with 23 points, the majority coming on five long balls.

El Capitan (10-15, 3-4 GVL) broke the game open in the second half when the Vaqueros outscored the Braves (2-21, 0-7 GVL) by a 44-21 count.

DOMININQUE MILLER paced the Braves with 17 points and 10 rebounds.

El Capitan: Cody Kygar 30 (6 reb, 4 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Tyson Kygar 23 (6 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk), Austin Betts 9 (3 reb, 3 ast), Kameron Brown 6 (9 reb, 1 ast), Nestor Ramirez 4 (7 reb, 6 ast, 4 stl), Austin Digenan 3 (5 reb, 3 blk, 1 stl), Anthony Agunat 2 (5 reb).

El Cajon Valley: Dominique Miller 17 (10 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk, 5 stl), Brenden Brocious 9 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Virnel Moon 9 (4 reb), Corey Evens 6 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Sangar 2 (1 reb).

Christian guard Aaron Hueslein (10) vs. Crawford. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Crawford ran wild over the Patriots (12-13, 6-5 CL), posting a 68-61 upset in the first round of league play.

“We’ve played a lot more aggressive defense the past few games,” Christian coach KELVIN STARR said. “It’s made a difference in our offense as well as holding our opponents down.”

SHANE DILLON set the tone for the Patriots with 23 points, the majority on four 3-pointers.

“Dillon did a good job of distributing the ball,” Starr said. “So did (JAKE) LARSEN.”

Christian assistant coach DEREK LARSEN noted, “Our pressure hurt them from the start.”

Starr also praised CLARENCE CARTER’s work off the bench, which included 7 points and 6 rebounds.

Christian collected 17 assists and 11 steals.

“Hopefully we can make a little run in the (San Diego CIF Division IV) playoffs,” Starr said.

Christian: Shane Dillon 23 (7 reb, 4 ast, 2 blk, 2 stl), Jake Larsen 13 (3 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Aaron Hueslein 10 (5 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Clarence Carter 7 (6 reb, 2 at, 2 stl), Trenton Sauls 4 (3 reb, 1 stl), Tyrone Sauls 3 (6 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk, 1 stl), Tyler Ballard 3 (2 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), John McNeal 2 (1 reb), Josh Feldscher (2 reb), Josh Harrison (2 reb).

ANDRE JOHNSON poured in 17 points for the Knights (16-11, 10-0 CSL), who placed five players in double scoring digits. JAMAL AYTES rolled a double-double of 12 points and 12 rebounds,

Foothills Christian, winner of four consecutive CIF-SDS Division V crowns, is seeking the No. 2 seed in this year’s tournament. Pairings will be announced on Saturday.

Foothills Christian: Andre Johnson 17 (2 reb, 4 stl, 1 ast), Dalton Mosser 14 (1 reb, 5 ast, 4 stl), Jamal Aytes 12 (12 reb, 1 stl, 3 ast), Ian Mathisen 11 (9 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk, 5 stl), Caleb Hoffman 10 (2 stl, 1 ast), Joe Buenrostro 8 (1 reb, 4 stl), Daniel Labahn 4 (2 reb, 3 stl, 1 ast), Ricky Adams 3 (1 reb), Corey Haines (3 reb).

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (2-13-11) — DANIEL LABAHN has become a viable part of the Foothills Christian basketball team.

And it’s all about confidence. He’s passed up the Little Engine That Could…because he knows he can.

“It was about three weeks ago and all of a sudden everything started to click,” said Foothills Christian coach BRAD LEAF. “Daniel has so much confidence right now.”

Labahn scored 11 of his 14 points in the third quarter Saturday night (Feb. 12) as the Knights turned a 6-point halftime edge into a 51-32 lead after three quarters. Foothills Christian continued on to a 75-52 non-league victory over El Capitan in a game played at Granite Hills High.

For the season Labahn, who owns an 8.8 scoring average, has nailed 28 three-pointers, second highest on his team.

“Daniel helped us break it open,” said Leaf. “He’s always been a 3-point shooter but up until recently he’s been afraid to shoot. And now he’s not.”

Labahn hit 4 of 9 shots from above the arc against the Vaqueros (9-15).

“That’s my game – spot up and shoot 3s,” said the 5-foot-11 senior guard. “I try to get open and my teammates are good about getting me the ball.”

Earlier in the season El Capitan crushed Foothills Christian 77-50.

Labahn admitted avenging that loss was sweet.

“They humiliated us early in the season,” he said. “This was definitely a game of revenge. We were very motivated to pay them back – it was like a rivalry game. I don’t know what happened the first time we played them, I guess we took them too lightly. We vowed that wasn’t going to happen this time.”

Foothills Christian (15-11) led wire-to-wire. The closest the Vaqueros got was 20-19 midway through the second quarter.

The second half was all Foothills Christian as the Knights outscored the Vaqueros 45-28.

“I think we had a better game plan this time,” Labahn said. “We wanted to contain No. 32 (TYSON KYGAR) because he is a great player.”

The Knights did do a decent job of keeping Kygar from running wild but the junior guard still managed to score 24 points on 9 of 22 shooting from the floor and 5 of 6 from the free throw line. The 5-foot-9, 140 pound Kygar also hauled down 11 rebounds.

Tyson’s senior brother CODY KYGAR added 17 points – the majority of which came on 10 of 12 shooting from the free throw line.

JAMAL AYTES, Foothills Christian’s muscle in the middle, powered in 20 points, grabbed 11 rebounds and blocked 3 shots.

Point guards DALTON MOSSER (11 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists) and ANDRE JOHNSON (11 points) provided the Knights with excellent floor guidance.

Not to be overlooked was hard-working IAN MATHISEN, who canned 10 points and 6 rebounds.

“We have more and more guys contributing now than we did at the beginning of the season,” said Labahn. “This was a pretty big turnaround from the last time we played these guys. I think we can win CIF again.”

Foothills Christian has won four straight SDCIF Division V championships.

“I think we’re ready for the playoffs,” Leaf said.

The coach went on to note that he doesn’t believe his team will receive the No. 1 seed in this year’s local tournament.

“I don’t think they’re going to give us any respect,” he said. “I think they’re going to give No. 1 to Horizon, and now I hear Calvin Christian is trying to say they’re ahead of us, too. I don’t know about that – especially the Calvin Christian part. It would be nice to be a 1 or a 2 (seed).”

Excluding forfeits, Foothills Christian figures to finish the season 19-8 overall.

“Calvin Christian hasn’t played anybody all year,” Leaf continued. “They beat San Diego Academy by 8 and we’ve beaten them twice – once by 55. I don’t have any qualms about Horizon being No. 1, but no way should Calvin Christian be seeded ahead of us.”

El Capitan coach JASON CAVAZOS admitted that maybe the Vaqueros used up all their emotion in upsetting Monte Vista Friday night.

“It looked like we exerted all our energy last night (against the Monarchs),” Cavazos said. “Obviously it showed. When you play a zone and get down by 10 or 12 points, you can’t play it anymore. We won last night because we held Monte Vista in the low 40s. But tonight we gave up 75 points which indicated we played no defense.

“They put a lot of pressure on Tyson all over and our other guys aren’t good enough to help alleviate that pressure.”

Cavazos conceded that Foothills Christian is a vastly improved team from the first time the Vaqueros faced the Knights.

“They shot well (28-for-63, 44 percent),” he said. “They didn’t shoot like that the last time we played them (on Dec. 22).”

Foothills Christian: Jamal Aytes 20 (11 reb, 3 blk, 2 ast), Daniel Labahn 14 (2 reb, 3 ast), Dalton Mosser 11 (9 reb, 2 blk, 2 stl, 5 ast), Andre Johnson 11 (2 reb, 1 stl, 1 ast), Ian Mathisen 10 (6 reb, 1 blk, 2 ast), Ricky Adams 4 (3 reb), Caleb Hoffman 3 (3 reb, 5 ast), Joe Buenrostro 2 (1 reb, 1 stl).

El Capitan: Tyson Kygar 24 (11 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Cody Kygar 17 (8 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Nestor Ramirez 6 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Austin Betts 5 (3 reb, 1 stl), Austin Digenan (2 reb, 1 ast), Kameron Brown (3 reb).

UPSET FRIDAY IN THE GROSSMONT CONFERENCE
Hillers hound Helix Grossmont's DeSean Waters turns the corner. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS Another Eastside Classic Shields hits tie-breaking 3-ball to power Norsemen past Eagles © East County Sports.com EL CAJON (2-12-11) — With the score tied in the final seconds in the long-standing feud between Granite Hills and Valhalla high schools, the host Eagles called a timeout to set-up a potential game-winning shot, hoping to place a dagger in their arch rivals in yet another series classic.  Valhalla 53  Granite Hills 50  However, nothing is so simple when another major script flip landed a surprise ending. The story's short version showed Valhalla's CHRIS SHIELDS, who entered the week with just 22 points all season, bury a 3-ball from the corner with 8.8 seconds remaining, giving the Norsemen a shocking 53-50 decision. The unlikely game-winner from an unlikely source, in front of a capacity crowd, gave Valhalla a rare season-series sweep over the Eagles. "SPENCER (HAVIRD) somehow stole the ball," Shields recalled on his game-winner. "He denied the (inbounds) pass, got the ball then passed it to MANNY (HERNANDEZ), who found me open in the corner." With Granite Hills holding the ball, the best Valhalla could reasonably hope for was overtime if they could keep the ball out of the hands of the Eagles' GARRETT LARCH-MILLER, the East County scoring leader who had already burned the Norsemen for 37 points. However, none of the Eagles got their hands on the inbounds pass thanks to Havird. "Spencer always plays great defense and made the stop," added Shields. Due to missing personnel, Shields filled in and collected a season-high 7 points against Grossmont earlier in the week. Then his huge 3-pointer gave the junior forward another best with 8 points. Moments later, Granite Hills, now the team hoping to extend the game with a 3-ball, committed another turnover when THOMAS McDONALD stole the ball, effectively ending the Eagles' final opportunity. The Norsemen turnaround seemed implausible after yielding an early 25-12 advantage, only to watch Granite Hills storm back to a 49-42 lead with 2:46 remaining on a 3-point play by Larch-Miller while getting fouled on a driving layin. Much of Valhalla's demise came offense, due to a series of forced shot attempts. "With our missing players, our offense didn't have the cohesion it normally has – players were out there thinking what they supposed to do since many needed to switch roles," noted Norsemen coach KEITH JACKSON. "They didn't have such apprehensions on defense – they knew what to do." Down by seven, McDonald nailed an outside jumper with 2:31 remaining, then he added a baseline jumper with 2:08 left to move to within 50-47. And when Havird sank his own triple to tie it with 52.7 to go, the dramatics for the big finish were set. "We knew they couldn't cover us off the dribble," noted Havird, who scored 8 points, then aided the defense with 3 steals and twice taking charges by Larch-Miller to forge turnovers. "We know how to play when it really gets intense and made the most of our opportunities." Added Jackson, "We kept our composure and showed some resilience." Larch-Miller, who was exclusively double-teamed in the closing minutes, added 10 rebounds and 4 assists to go with his 37 points, his highest scoring total in a GHL contest this season. Larch-Miller hit 23 of Granite Hills’ 28 second-half points. The battle of the big men was also intense, with both rejecting an array of shots. Eagles center SCOTT ATKINSON finished with 12 boards and 6 blocks to go along with his 4 points. However, Norsemen center MANNY HERNANDEZ did even better, posting 20 points, 12 boards and 7 shot blocks, picking up the slack for his missing compadre. Hernandez scored 10 of his points in the opening 9 minutes, giving Valhalla a 19-11 lead moments into the second quarter. The halftime cushion surged to 30-22, as Granite Hills hit just 7 of 26 first-half shots. For Valhalla, it's the first sweep of a league series over Granite Hills since the 2002-03 campaign, when the Norsemen needed overtime to win on the road on the final day of the regular season to take down the Eagles, 72-63. Valhalla: Manny Hernandez 20 (12 reb, 7 blk, 2 ast), Thomas MacDonald 11 (2 stl), Chris Shields 8 (4 reb), Spencer Havird 8 (3 ast, 1 reb, 1 stl, 2 charges), Kevin Mills 5 (9 reb, 3 stl, 1 ast), Andrew Lewellen 1 (2 ast, 1 reb, 1 stl), Amil Hermiz (5 stl, 1 reb, 1 charge). William Speegle (1 reb), Josh McClenachen (1 reb). Granite Hills: Garrett Larch-Miller 37 (10 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Scott Atkinson 4 (12 reb, 6 blk), James Sadik 4 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 1 charge), Joey Grubb 3 (5 stl, 3 reb, 1 ast), Dalton Otineru 2 (2 ast, 2 reb), John Petty (3 reb, 1 blk), Blake Perry (1 reb).
Vaqueros make a stand, upend Monte Vista © East County Sports.com SPRING VALLEY (2-12-11) — The El Capitan Vaqueros aren’t going to win any league championships this year but they plan to have a lot of say about who does. They proved that in Friday (Feb. 11) night’s Grossmont Valley League action as they knocked of front-running Monte Vista, 52-42, which turned the 5-team league into a virtual tizzy. The Vaqueros (9-14, 2-4 GVL) took a unique path to the upset of the Monarchs (15-9, 5-2 GVL) as they had only three players contribute to their scoring. Junior TYSON KYGAR was the Vaqueros’ tiger as he connected on 11 of 17 shots, including 4 of 9 from long distance. He also netted 4 of 5 free throws to finish with 30 points. Eighteen of Kygar’s points came in the second half. His senior brother CODY KYGAR scored 14 of his 17 points after intermission as El Capitan erased a 22-17 halftime deficit. “I know Monte Vista is recognized as the biggest and the top rebounding team in the conference,” said El Capitan coach JASON CAVAZOS. “You know, we’re kind of a puny squad, not only because we’re very small but we’re down to seven players.” “The amazing thing about the size mismatch is we did a much better job on the boards than we usually do,” he added. Monte Vista was limited to a 25-20 rebounding edge, according to the stats reported by the two teams. The Vaqueros elected to keep the game at a slow tempo. On the surface that might not be sound strategy, considering Monte Vista had such a huge size advantage. Perhaps the Vaqueros surprised the Monarchs by their chosen tempo. “We worked hard at stopping their penetration and getting hands up in their shooters’ faces,” Cavazos said. “I think we really bothered them.” On the offensive side, which included 17 points from Cody Kygar and 5 from AUSTIN BETTS, the Vaqueros did an excellent job of providing screens to shed their shooters of Monte Vista defenders. “Yeah, I know this is a big defeat for Monte Vista,” Cavazos said, noting that the Monarchs now sit in a tie with Mount Miguel for first place in the GVL. “Our kids haven’t quit or given up. But it’s not about spoiling stuff. You have to guard our kids and we want teams to respect that.” The game was tied at 32-all after three quarters. El Capitan erupted for 20 points in the final period. Cody Kygar hit a 3 and 7 of 8 free throws over the final 8 minutes, while his brother Tyson added 7 points. “This is my favorite team I’ve ever coached,” Cavazos said. “Although you never know what to expect from my guys, the one thing you can count on is we’re going to give everything we have on the court.” El Capitan ’s mighty-might defense was successful in neutralizing Monte Vista’s inside game. The taller, more physical Monarchs received 13 points from 6-foot-5 JAMES JACKSON but only 3 rebounds. KYLIE LUSTER, 6-5 junior, led all rebounders by collecting 11 caroms but tallied only 7 points. Monte Vista point guard KJ HOUSTON dished out 8 assists to go along with his 10 points. Monte Vista, which thrashed El Capitan 68-51 in the first round GVL meeting, somehow lost the battle of the paint. Perhaps that was because El Capitan played a zone the full game, which seemed to deny the Monarchs from getting the ball inside. El Capitan: Tyson Kygar 30 (6 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk), Cody Kygar 17 (6 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl, 1 blk), Austin Betts 5 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Nestor Ramirez (2 reb, 2 stl). Monte Vista: James Jackson 13 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk, 1 stl), KJ Houston 10 (3 reb, 8 ast, 1 stl), Kylie Luster 7 (11 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Brian Sterling (7 (1 reb), Rueben Nwando 5 (4 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Xavier Daniels (3 reb), Jahmani Locket (1 stl), D’ondre Coleman (1 ast). SANTANA 58, MOUNT MIGUEL 49 – Santana’s hopes for a Grossmont Valley League championship came to fruition Friday (Feb. 11) night on two fronts. First of all, the Sultans knocked off visiting Mount Miguel, and secondly – thanks to El Capitan’s upset of Monte Vista – Santana finds itself only one-half game behind co-leaders Mount Miguel and Monte Vista heading into the final week of the season. “Winning tonight was just one of our last three,” said Santana coach TIM BARRY. “We know we need a sweep to assure ourselves of a share of the championship. We knew going into tonight it was a three-game season.” LANDON LOZOYA led the Santana onslaught with 20 points and 13 rebounds. Lozoya hit 6 of 10 shots from the field, including four 3s. “We were pretty excited about Monte Vista’s loss,” said Lozoya. “It let us back in it and now we can determine our own destiny.” Bottom line is Santana needs a sweep of the final two regular season games to have any chance of gaining a share of the GVL championship, which Mount Miguel – despite the loss to Santana – is all but guaranteed of nothing less than a share of the league title. Santana blew a one-time 11-point lead in the third quarter when the Matadors came charging back on an 8-point scoring spree by MARCUS BOOKER to make it a 3-point deficit with 4:23 remaining. The Sultans rebounded as 6-foot-8 RYAN BICKFORD banged in back-to-back buckets to stretch Santana’s advantage to 41-34. Bickford, who punched in 17 points, grabbed 7 rebounds and blocked 2 shots, was playing with a hyper-extended thumb. He played with a brace on. “I went to the doctor and got X-rays,” Bickford said. “At first they thought it was a fracture, but then they decided it wasn’t. They told me I had a pretty bad sprain – almost a fracture. But they told me if I kept it iced they would clear me to play. “I’m just glad I got to play. I came out strong tonight and we won.” Bickford made 7 of 11 shots from the floor as he was a force inside the paint. Ironically his first shot was a 3-pointer, which is not his style. “I didn’t want to give any attention to the pain in my thumb. My focus was on the team and the school,” he said. “I think we can get a championship, even if it’s a co-, and I want to be part of that. We just have to play harder and smarter, like we did tonight.” Junior guard Booker paced Mount Miguel with 19 points and THOMAS BUTLER added 12 points and 9 rebounds. But Mount Miguel shot a paltry 30.6 percent from the field. Matadors coach JAY ROWLETT has figured out how his Matadors can still wind up solo champions of the Grossmont Valley League. “The main thing is if we can win our final game against El Cajon, we can’t be anything less than co-champions,” he said. “But I think we can get more.” Here’s how Rowlett sees it: “If Santana beats Monte Vista, yet loses to El Capitan, we win outright. If Monte Vista beats Santana, we wind up co-champions. Either way it’s kinda hard to figure out how you can lose a game (Friday) yet be guaranteed of nothing less than a share of the league title.” Not lost on Rowlett was Lozoya’s performance. “I like that No. 33 (Lozoya),” said Rowlett. “He’s gotta be first team all league. I just wish he lived in Spring Valley.” Santana: Landon Lozoya 20 (13 reb, 1 blk, 2 stl, 2 ast), Ryan Bickford 17 (7 reb, 1 stl, 2 blk), Jason Corbisez 8 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Jordan Khalaf 5 (2 reb), Trey Bass 4 (8 reb, 8 ast, 1 stl), Mike Rosolino 4 (5 reb, 1 stl), Daniel Levens-Lowery (2 reb). Mount Miguel: Marcus Booker 19 (3 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Thomas Butler 12 (9 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk, 3 stl), Cory Littleton 7 (9 reb), Izzy Wagner 7 (1 ast, 1 stl), Mohamud Abdi 4 (8 reb, 1 stl), Shakeel Hill (2 reb), Safen Mohammed (1 reb).	Emotion-filled Foothillers end Helix' 10-game winning streak By Andrew Smith © Special to East County Sports LA MESA (2-12-11) — This was to be Grossmont’s last stand. And the Foothillers’ faithful were well aware of it. ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE By Tony Bordine Oh did the Grossmont fans pull off all kinds of pregame high jinx in hopes of giving their Foothillers any kind of extra edge they could. It started with a pep rally on the Grossmont campus where the Associated Body offered to buy tickets to any student wishing to attend Friday’s (Feb. 11) Grossmont Hills League showdown at Helix. Foothillers fans flooded the Helix gym. Although no one knows for sure how much of an emotional lift it provided, the bottom line was Grossmont prevailed 51-47. Grossmont’s fans poured onto the Helix court following the Hillers’ first win in three tries against Helix. Elated as they were, the Foothillers (17-8, 6-2 GHL) still need next to a miracle to catch the Highlanders (18-6, 7-1 GHL), who maintain a one game lead with two games remaining. The Scotties jumped out to a quick 9-2 lead early after guard TOMMIE YOUNG made a beautiful reverse layup. Grossmont then clamped down on defense and closed the first quarter with a pair of treys from team captains ROBBY NESOVIC and senior DeSEAN WATERS. After falling behind early the Foothillers countered with a 22-8 run deep into the second period and led 24-17 before 4 converted free throws closed the gap to 24-21 at the half. "Grab rebounds and box KENNY KEYS out," Waters said of the Foothillers’ game plan coming in. It wasn't quite that simple in the third quarter as Keys collected 7 of his team-high 20 points and grabbed 5 of his game-high 13 rebounds in the period. Grossmont's Nesovic countered though, with 7 of his team-high 21 points in the third period and the Foothillers would take a 38-33 advantage heading into the fourth. After they pushed that lead to 42-35 early in the period the Scotties came back and trimmed the lead all the way down to one at 44-43 with 2:31 remaining, behind superb guard play from Tommie and TITUS YOUNG. Junior forward KENE ANIGBOGU also provided great inside play for Helix with 7 second-half rebounds and two dazzling assists to Keys inside. After a timeout Nesovic drove to the hoop for a couple of nice inside scores to extend the Grossmont lead to 48-45. "They had a bigger guy on me so I knew I could take him to the basket," he remarked. Keys would then make a layup off an offensive rebound and cut the lead to a single digit with 47.9 seconds remaining. "Coach told us all week that we needed to win this on the defensive side of the ball," Waters said. What he didn't know is that he would come up with the biggest play of the game. After the Foothillers came up empty on an offensive possession late to try and seal the victory, Helix grabbed the rebound, pushed the ball up court only to throw a lazy pass that Waters intercepted to wrap things up for the upset-minded Foothillers. "I thought it was a very physical game," said Grossmont head coach FRANK FOGGIANO. "A strong defensive game played by both teams. We switched our defense up a little from the last two times we played them." "It feels great to beat them for my last time playing here," senior captain Waters added. "I'm gonna remember this one for a long time." Grossmont snapped Helix’s 10-game winning streak. "We have a lot of big wins with tonight being one of them,” Foggiano said. “We did a good job. If we made a mistake on offense we came back and got a big defensive stop, which we weren't doing early in the season. Tonight that was the difference for us.” Grossmont: Robby Nesovic 21 (10 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), DeSean Waters 11 (4 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Michael Wnek 9 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk), Derek Rustich 4 (12 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Nick Persinger 4 (6 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Ryan Green 2 (1 ast). Helix: Kenny Keys 20 (13 reb), Tommie Young 10 (2 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Michael Todd 6 (2 reb, 2 ast), Titus Young 5 (4 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Kene Anigbogu 2 (7 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Brian Valadez 2 (9 reb, 2 ast), Gary Thompson 2 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Kevin Williams (1 reb). STEELE CANYON 52, WEST HILLS 50 (OT) – Junior MICHAEL JORDAN had a career-best game of 25 points and 17 rebounds as Steele Canyon sneaked past West Hills in Friday’s (Feb. 11) Grossmont Hills League action that needed an overtime to decide the issue. Living up to his namesake, Jordan hit 9 of 19 shots from the field and 7 of 10 free throws, but needed help from his teammates to make his milestones memorable. “We should have won this game by 20 points – we could not make a basket,” said Steele Canyon coach DEREK STEPHENS. “We missed 10 layups and were 0-10 on threes.” “(West Hills) plays a zone defense and in the first quarter we did not do what we practiced,” Stephens said. “I thought we played pretty well defensively.” In the overtime, Steele Canyon went up 4 points quickly when DYLAN KIRCHHOFER passed the ball to Jordan for a basket and DANNY BWINIKA pulled up for a jumper that hit the mark. Jordan would later hit both of his free throws in the extra stanza to secure the victory. West Hills answered with two layups – one by ALEX PARSONS and one by KEVIN STRAUB. JERON SATTERFIELD had a wide open look at a 3 and missed, but JOEY CLARK rebounded and missed an uncontested layup as the game ended. With a minute left in regulation, Steele Canyon was up three points. Straub came off a screen and was fouled on a trey. He made all 3 shots from the line to tie it at 46-all. Steele Canyon had the ball with 38 seconds remaining and played for one shot. With 5 seconds left ANDREW KING passed the ball to CASEY BALIKIAN for a triple. It rimmed out and West Hills got the rebound. “Parsons fouled out in overtime and that really hurt us,” said West Hills assistant coach LUCAS ARMSTRONG. “JONNY PRESTON and Kevin carried the team tonight.” “We had multiple chances to win the game during regulation,” Armstrong said. “It was a quality team effort. We played well as a team and Kevin Straub played outstanding. (Steele Canyon) put their best defender – No. 23 (Bwinika) – on him.” “Jonny did a really nice job of running the offense,” Armstrong noted. “He held his composure and took care of the ball.” Straub enjoyed a career best game, finishing with 19 points and 8 rebounds. “Straub was on fire,” Stephens said of the Wolf Pack’s marksman. “He made 11 of their 14 fourth quarter points and 2 of their 4 in overtime.” Steele Canyon: Michael Jordan 25 (17 reb, 2 stl), Danny Bwinika 10 (3 reb, 2 stl), Andrew King 9 (6 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Dylan Kirchhofer 5 (3 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Casey Balikian 2 (5 reb), Justin Norwood 1 (5 reb). West Hills: Kevin Straub 19 (8 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk), Jonny Preston 11 (4 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Alex Parsons 10 (6 reb, 5 ast, 2 blk), Jeron Satterfield 6 (10 reb, 3 ast, 2 blk, 2 stl), Joey Clark 2 (1 reb, 1 ast), Justin Sun 2, Nick Findley (1 reb), John Magoon (2 reb, 1 ast).

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (2-11-11) — SHANE DILLON scored 25 points and blocked 11 shots to carry host Christian past Clairemont, 50-39, in a Central League contest Thursday (Feb. 10) at Ryan Athletic Center.

Trailing by one point after the opening quarter, the Patriots got 12 points from Dillon to take a 23-16 halftime lead over the Chieftains (8-18, 3-8 CL).

In the third period, Dillon also was the driving force, punching in 7 markers to extend the Patriots’ lead to 40-27.

“No question, Shane was on tonight,” said Patriots’ assistant coach DEREK LARSEN.

The 6-foot-6 junior nailed 9 of 17 shots from the floor – 3 of them from long distance – and 4 of 6 free throws.

“We picked up full court most of the game,” Larsen said, “and did a lot of trapping at half court. Our execution was good and we picked up a lot of transition points.”

Next up for the Patriots is a home game against Crawford Tuesday (Feb. 15) at 4:45.

Christian: Shane Dillon 25 (7 reb, 3 ast, 11 blk, 2 stl), Aaron Hueslein 9 (7 reb, 2 ast, 2 blk, 2 stl), Tyrone Sauls 6 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Clarence Carter 6 (4 reb, 2 ast), Jake Larsen 4 (2 reb, 3 ast, 5 stl), Tyler Ballard (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

FOOTHILLS CHRISTIAN 59, SAN DIEGO ACADEMY 39 – ANDRE JOHNSON scored 13 points to lead a balanced Foothills Christian attack in Thursday’s (Feb. 10) Citrus South League victory over host San Diego Academy.

Johnson nailed 5 of 8 shots from the field, including one 3-pointer, and made 2 of 3 free throws.

DALTON MOSSER did not have one of his better shooting nights but finished with 11 points, 4 rebounds, 4 steals and 4 assists.

JAMAL AYTES was also off the mark yet totaled 10 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, made 5 steals, dished 4 assists and blocked 2 shots.

DANIEL LABAHN chipped in with 10 points and 5 rebounds.

As a team Foothills Christian (14-10, 9-0 CSL) shot 31 percent from the field, netting only 21 of 66 attempts from the field. The Knights were equally as unimpressive when they made just 11 of 23 free throws.

Foothills Christian: Andre Johnson 13 (3 reb), Dalton Mosser 11 (4 reb, 1 blk, 4 stl, 4 ast), Jamal Aytes 10 (13 reb, 2 blk, 5 stl, 4 ast), Daniel Labahn 10 (5 reb, 1 blk),

Joe Buenrostro 6 (3 reb, 1 stl, 1 ast), Caleb Hoffman 6 (2 reb, 3 stl, 1 ast), Ricky Adams 3 (2 reb, 1 blk, 2 ast).

Monte Vista Monarchs at El Cajon Valley Braves (Slideshow by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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EL CAJON (2-9-11) — No question Grossmont High could focus its attention on the future – that being a do-or-die Grossmont Hills League encounter at Helix on Friday (Feb. 11) night.

Albeit the Foothillers, the defending GHL champions, have now assumed longshot status considering they’ve been beaten by the Highlanders in two previous meetings to trail by two games in the league standings with three to play.

Credit the Foothillers for buckling down to beat visiting Valhalla 53-44 in Tuesday’s (Feb. 8) GHL contest to keep their title hopes alive.

In reality, Grossmont is looking forward to the San Diego Division I playoffs.

“We haven’t given up on winning league, but we have to take care of business against Helix on Friday and hope for help,” said Grossmont coach FRANK FOGGIANO. “Unless we win our league the best we can hope for is a 6, 7 or 8 seed and a home game in the playoffs.”

Probably the turning point in the game came midway through the third quarter when Valhalla closed the deficit to 31-28 with 3:39 left in the period.

Valhalla had five chances to overtake the Foothillers at that stretch but came up empty every time.

After that the Foothillers jump-started their offense on buckets by DEREK RUSTICH and DeSEAN WATERS. Rustich also added a free throw to extend Grossmont’s advantage to 36-28, but Valhalla refused to fold as SPENCER HAVIRD hit a 3-pointer at the buzzer ending the third quarter, leaving the Norsemen behind 36-31.

Rustich, who nailed 6 of 9 shots from the field and 3 of 6 free throws for 15 points, also secured a game-best 16 rebounds.

Those are not uncommon numbers for Rustich but they were critical on this night as team leader ROBBY NESOVIC was in foul trouble the whole game.

Despite his handicap Nesovic was able to contribute 11 points and 6 rebounds.

The fireplug in the Grossmont arsenal was senior point guard Waters, who spun in a team best 16 points.

“When Robby got in foul trouble it changed our whole game,” Waters said. “That gave us one less big to go to and put more pressure on us from the outside.”

Although it appeared that Waters was looking to throw the ball inside to Rustich, neither party involved – nor coach Foggiano – said there were any changes in the offense to do so.

“To tell you the truth, I never said we should do that,” Foggiano said. “But DeSean’s our floor leader and he sees things that I don’t see. But you know me – we always want to take the ball inside.”

Playing without its team leader DAVID WILSHETZ (in Spain with the school choir), Valhalla still managed to make a competitive effort.

The cornerstones for the Norsemen were post MANNY HERNANDEZ (11 points, 10 rebounds, 7 blocks) and SPENCER HAVIRD (10 points, 7 steals, 5 assists).

For Grossmont the focus is Helix.

“We have to win that game,” said Waters. “We have to keep them off the boards and make our shots.”

Rustich agreed.

“My job is to hit the boards and that’s what I plan to do,” he said.

Added Nesovic, “Beating Helix is really important to us. They are our archrival and we do not want to lose three games in a row to them.”

Grossmont: DeSean Waters 16 (4 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Derek Rustich 15 (16 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk, 2 stl), Robby Nesovic 11 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Michael Wnek 9 (3 reb, 2 stl), Nick Persinger 2 (7 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Ryan Green (5 reb, 2 ast), Austin Swisher (1 reb).

Valhalla: Manny Hernandez 11 (10 reb, 7 blk, 3 stl, 1 ast), Spencer Havird 10 (2 reb, 7 stl, 5 ast), Chris Shields 7 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Thomas McDonald 4 (4 reb, 2 stl), William Speegle 4, Kevin Mills 3 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Josh McLenachen 3 (1 reb, 1 ast), Amil Hermiz 2 (1 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Andrew Lewellen (2 reb, 1 stl), Andrew Lozoya (1 ast).

It could be all over by Friday (Feb. 11) night as the Highlanders host Grossmont in a GHL battle at 7 p.m. Helix owns two victories over the Foothillers – one by a 14-point spread, the other by an 11-point margin.

“It’s hard enough to beat a team twice in a season, but even more difficult to do it three times,” Singer said. “So this is not a done deal. It’s not a lock. We’re going to have to earn it.”

Helix (18-5, 7-0, GHL), which has won 10 in a row and 14 of its last 15, charged in front of visiting West Hills Tuesday (Feb. 8) night with a score of 66-18 by the close of three quarters.

“We know what we are... we never look ahead,” Singer said. “We were able to play all 14 of our guys in this game. That is always a good thing. Here at Helix we coach the whole team. We are much better collectively than individually.”

KENNY KEYS was 6-for-6 from the field on his way to 17 points. The 6-foot-3 ½ senior also garnered 10 rebounds.

Other Helix standouts included sophomore guard TITUS YOUNG with 16 points, most of which came on his 7 of 9 shooting from the floor. TOMMIE YOUNG pitched in with 7 assists and KENE ANIGBOGU also bagged 11 boards off the bench.

“In our gym it says “Helix” on the wall, not your name,” Singer said. “That’s what we are – a fun team to coach.”

Helix: Kenny Keys 17 (10 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Titus Young 16 (8 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Brian Valadez 8 (5 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk), Tommie Young 7 (6 reb, 7 ast, 2 stl), Gary Thompson 7 (3 reb, 1 blk), Michael Todd 6 (5 reb, 3 ast, 5 stl), Isaac Sullivan 6 (1 reb), Kene Anigbogu 4 (11 reb, 1 ast), Earl Schexnayder 4 (1 stl), Vann Sabin 2 (1 ast, 1 stl), Donald Woodard 2 (2 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Kevin Williams 1 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Ray Contreras (4 reb, 1 ast), Isaac Randall (1 reb, 1 blk).

West Hills: Jeron Satterfield 7 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Ralph Bedoe 6 (1 areb, 1 ast, 1 stl), John Magoon 4 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Alex Parsons 3 (5 reb, 2 blk), Jonny Preston 2 (1 ast), Nick Findley 2 (1 stl), Joey Clark 2, Kevin Straub (1 stl), Justin Sun (2 ast).

MOUNT MIGUEL 52, EL CAPITAN 42 – After suffering a stunning loss to Monte Vista last week, the Mount Miguel Matadors proved they are not ready to settle for anything less than a second Grossmont Valley League championship in two years.

Heading into a key GVL joust at Santana on Friday (Feb. 11), the Matadors regained some momentum by denying visiting El Capitan ’s upset bid on Tuesday (Feb. 8).

“In a league game we don’t care if we win by one point or a hundred,” Mount Miguel coach JAY ROWLETT said. “We had to try to bounce back from last game’s disappointment (a 52-47 loss to the Monarchs).”

MARCUS BOOKER set the pace for Mount Miguel (19-6, 5-1 GVL) with 17 points, one more than teammate THOMAS BUTLER. Sophomore IZZY WAGNER added 14 points to complete a balanced attack for the Matadors, who have won nine of their last 10.

This was no easy deal for Mount Miguel, which needed a 19-6 scoring spree in the final quarter to turn back El Capitan (8-14, 1-4 GVL).

One of the keys in this outcome was Mount Miguel’s defensive ability to hold El Capitan scoring machine TYSON KYGAR to a season low 6 points.

“We obviously competed against them better than we did the first time,” said El Capitan coach JASON CAVAZOS, referring to a 64-37 blowout in the first round meeting. “We had the lead at halftime and after the third quarter (36-33). For the most part we did exactly what we wanted to do.”

Mount Miguel: Marcus Booker 17 (3 reb, 4 ast), Thomas Butler 16 (5 reb, 5 ast), Izzy Wagner 14 (4 reb), Mohamud Abdi 3 (5 reb, 2 stl), Cory Littleton 2 (9 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Shakeel Hill (3 reb, 5 stl), Safen Mohammed (1 reb, 1 stl).

El Capitan: Cody Kygar 20, Tyson Kygar 6, Austin Digenan 6, Nestor Ramirez 4, Austin Betts 4, Kameron Brown 2. No stats reported.

GRANITE HILLS 55, STEELE CANYON 31 – Their defense was sound, but their offense rolled like a flat tire for the Steele Canyon Cougars, who were a generous host to the Granite Hills Eagles in Tuesday’s (Feb. 8) Grossmont Hills League action.

Granite Hills built a 31-10 halftime lead and then cruised to its 17th victory in 26 decisions. The Eagles are 4-3 in GHL play and hope to grab a share of second place in the 6-team circuit.

GARRETT LARCH-MILLER paced the Eagle with 20 points, while 6-foot-9 SCOTT ATKINSON coined a double-double of 10 points, 14 rebounds and 6 blocks.

“Atkinson did a great job of plugging up the middle again – he blocked a lot of shots,” noted Eagles coach RANDY ANDERSON. “And James Sadik played pretty well defensively.”

“I thought we set the tone early with our intensity on defense so I was happy with that,” Anderson added.

DANNY BWINIKA led Steele Canyon with 13 points – the majority coming on a trio of triples.

“Our post players scored only 3 points combined and it’s awfully hard to win when you’re doing stuff like that,” said Cougars coach DEREK STEPHENS. (Granite Hills) was packing it in to deny us anything inside the paint, and we didn’t shoot very well from the perimeter.”

Despite his size Steele Canyon ’s 6-foot-1 wing MICHAEL JORDAN collected a game-high 15 rebounds.

Granite Hills: Garrett Larch-Miller 20 (8 reb, 6 ast, 2 stl), Scott Atkinson 10 (14 reb, 2 ast, 6 blk), John Petty 7 (1 ast), Dalton Otineru 6 (4 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Joey Grubb 6 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Blake Perry 3 (2 reb), Stephen Keppel 3, James Sadik (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Nate Jeter (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Wil Wilson (1 ast, 1 stl).

Steele Canyon: Danny Bwinika 13 (3 reb), Andrew King 5 (3 reb, 3 ast), Michael Jordan 4 (15 reb, 3 stl), Casey Balikian 3 (5 ast, 4 reb, 1 stl), P.J. Russell 3 (2 reb, 2 stl), Justin Norwood 2 (3 reb, 1 stl, 1 ast), Dylan Kirchhofer 1 (4 reb, 2 stl).

MONTE VISTA 71, EL CAJON VALLEY 52 – Grossmont Valley League co-leader Monte Vista received a career-high 27 points from JAMES JACKSON on its way to a surprisingly tough victory over host El Cajon Valley on Tuesday.

“Jackson was dynamite out there,” said Monte Vista coach JAMES CARROLL. “He’s really on top of his game right now.”

Despite Jackson’s all-around game that included 8 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 block and a pair of steals, the Monarchs (15-8, 5-1 GVL), who posted their fifth straight win, led the Braves (2-20, 0-6 GVL) by a precarious 27-25 edge at intermission.

“El Cajon Valley has really improved,” Carroll admitted.

The Braves’ backbone is 6-foot-5 senior DOMINIQUE MILLER, who nailed 25 points, including a pair of treys and 7 of 11 free throws.

“Miller is the best player in our league,” Carroll said. “We tried everything we could think of trying to stop him, but nothing worked.”

Monte Vista: James Jackson 27 (8 reb, 7 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Kylie Luster 15 (6 reb, 1 stl), KJ Houston 9 (5 reb, 4 ast, 6 stl, Rueben Nwando 5 (6 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Brian Sterling 4 (2 stl), Xavier Daniels 4 (2 ast, 2 stl), Jahmani Lockett 4 (3 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 3 stl), Devin Rendo 3 (2 reb), Jahzdion Taylor (3 blk), Terrance Peterson (1 reb).

El Cajon Valley: Dominique Miller 25, Tyler Varela 8, Brenden Brocious 7, Diante Ashby 5, Virnel Moon 5, Corey Evens 2. No stats reported.

MADISON 49, CHRISTIAN 42 – The visiting Patriots scrambled back from a 10-point deficit to tie host Madison with two minutes remaining in Tuesday’s (Feb. 8)

Central League encounter, only to come up short down the stretch.

SHANE DILLON was once again the Patriots’ workhorse, finishing with 21 points, 9 rebounds and 3 blocks. The 6-foot-6 junior canned 8 of 20 shots from the field, including a pair of treys.

CLARENCE CARTER led Christian’s supporting cast with 9 points and 3 boards. Nobody else scored more than 4 points. TRENTON SAULS did collect 7 rebounds.

“We have a hard time putting two solid halves together,” Christian assistant coach DEREK LARSEN said. “Too many turnovers is what has been killing us.”

Christian: Shane Dillon 21 (9 reb, 2 ast, 3 blk, 2 stl), Clarence Carter 9 (3 reb), Jake Larsen 4 (2 reb, 6 ast, 4 stl), Trenton Sauls 4 (7 reb), Aaron Hueslien 3 (6 reb, 2 blk), Tyrone Sauls 1 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Tyler Ballard (2 reb, 1 stl).

FOOTHILLS CHRISTIAN 99, LUTHERAN 21 – DANIEL LABAHN and IAN MATHISEN registered career highs of 31 and 21 points respectively Tuesday (Feb. 8) as the visiting Knights (13-11, 8-0) rolled past winless Lutheran in a Citrus South League encounter.

Foothills Christian: Daniel Labahn 31 (5 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Ian Mathisen 21 (10 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Dalton Mosser 16 (2 stl, 3 ast, 6 stl, 1 blk), Andre Johnson 14 (7 reb, 4 stl, 4 ast), Caleb Hoffman 11 (1 reb, 3 ast), Joe Buenrostro 4 (3 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl), Corey Haines 2 (3 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Ricky Adams (3 reb, 3 ast).

Whoa!

The reaction by a member of the Christian High cheer squad (low-left) is priceless when Patriots center Shane Dillon goes for the dramatic slam dunk vs. Foothills Christian. CLICK the picture for the reverse angle. (Photo by Nathan Price, youatplay.com; Inside photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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EL CAJON (2-6-11) — Foothills Christian coach BRAD LEAF isn’t afraid to say it – “We are a different team than we were in the Grossmont Christmas Classic in December.”

Interpretation: Leaf meant “better.”

Much better, in fact, as the Knights crushed Christian,
61-44, in a non-league game Saturday (Feb. 5) night at Granite Hills. When these teams met on Dec. 21, the Knights escaped with a 48-47 win.

The Knights won only four of their first nine games (on the court), then were an unimpressive 4-5 on the court through that tournament anyway. They have since won 11 of 14.

Granted, Foothills Christian (officially 12-11) is barreling its way through the Citrus South League with ease. But Leaf, whose teams at Foothills and Steele Canyon before that, are closing in on a 6th league championship in seven years. During that stretch the only time one of his clubs failed to wear a league crown was when it was allowed independent status one season.

“My guys are working hard to get better and I know for sure that we are a completely stronger team than we were six weeks ago,” Leaf said. “We are going the right direction. We are raising our intensity big time.”

Led by muscular 6-foot-6, 215-pound sophomore JAMAL AYTES, who banged in 16 points and grabbed 17 rebounds, the Knights maintained a steady lead with an 8-to-10 point margin most of the evening.

“This was a great game to play in,” Aytes said. “We had an exceptional crowd and that made the intensity even higher.”

Aytes figures to be a Division I prospect by the time he’s a senior. He understands the game and contributes in all phases.

“I really like getting my teammates the ball,” he said. “When I can do that it helps them gain more confidence.”

Junior guard DALTON MOSSER, who punched in 15 points, logged 5 assists, and recorded 4 steals, has grown into a solid floor leader for Foothills Christian.

“He is really coming on,” Leaf said. “He’s settling down, becoming the leader we need out there. He can handle pressure now and is distributing the ball well.”

Mosser mostly watched from the bench last year when TROY LEAF, KALOB HATCHER and J’VONTE BROOKS handled the Foothills leadership.

“Playing in a game like this is tons of fun,” Mosser said. “We don’t get that much competition in our league. But regardless of who we play, we just work hard to get better.”

Filling the shoes of Hatcher – the state’s all-time leading assistman – has been no small chore for Mosser.

“Of course I like to score,” Mosser admitted. “But I also like paying attention to getting my teammates the ball as much as I can. I know I’m trying to fill some big shoes, but I’m giving it my best.”

Not to be overlooked was the sharp-shooting of CALEB HOFFMAN, who nailed four 3-pointers on his way to a 16-point finish.

“He’s a freshman,” coach Leaf remarked. “So you can see we have a bright future. But our goal now is getting better for this year. That’s as far ahead as I want to look.”

Foothills Christian is riding a 37-game winning streak in the Citrus South League. Aytes and Mosser have seen their playing cut short on occasion due to the lopsided nature of these circuit contests.

“In those games I try to focus on areas of my game where I can get better rather concern myself with the outcome,” Aytes said.

SHANE DILLON scored a game-high 21 points and snagged 11 rebounds to pace Christian (10-12). AARON HUESLEIN also cleared 10 balls off the glass.

“We play hard, but not very smart sometimes,” Christian coach KELVIN STARR said.

A bucket by CLARENCE CARTER pulled the Patriots to 37-31 with 3:33 left in the third period. Christian, however, would draw no closer.

Foothills Christian: Jamal Aytes 16 (17 reb, 3 ast, 2 blk, 1 stl), Caleb Hoffman 16 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Dalton Mosser 15 (3 reb, 5 ast, 4 stl), Daniel Labahn 8 (4 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Andre Johnson 4 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Joe Buenrostro 2, Ian Mathisen (1 reb, 1 stl), Ricky Adams (2 reb).

Christian: Shane Dillon 21 (11 reb, 1 blk, 2 stl), Tyrone Sauls 7 (4 reb, 1 blk, 3 stl), Clarence Carter 6 (2 reb, 1 ast), Jake Larsen 4 (4 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Josh Harrison 3, Aaron Hueslein 2 (10 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Stephen George 1, Trenton Sauls (2 reb, 1 stl), Tyler Ballard (1 ast), Michael Letouzic (1 reb), John McNeal (1 reb).

Steele Canyon's Andrew King (4) goes up with the shot, but gets rejected by Grossmont junior forward Robby Nesovic. The Hillers won, 61-51. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

Short-handed Norsemen no match for Helix Andrew Smith © Special to East County Sports.com EL CAJON (2-5-11) — Valhalla High came into Friday (Feb. 4) night's matchup against Grossmont Hills League leading Helix High short-handed and fought hard, but the challenge proved to be too much as Helix took the "W" back to La Mesa with them, earning a 47-34 victory to stay undefeated in league play. Down three starters the Norsemen came out swinging in the first quarter jumping out to a 10-2 lead, behind some nice pick plays that opened up MANNY HERNANDEZ down low for some easy baskets. Hernandez scored 8 of his team-high 15 points in the period, but the Highlanders called timeout, regrouped, then outscored Valhalla 21-6 to lead at halftime 23-16. "Our defense really helped us out in the first half. We were getting back cut a lot, so we focused on stopping them from getting the ball inside," Helix center KENNY KEYS remarked. Keys would end the game with a double-double, scoring 17 points and collecting 10 boards. "At the start we weren't very good with the ball. Our possessions were terrible. We turned the ball over a lot," Helix head coach JOHN SINGER stated, after collecting his 570th career win, with the playoffs right around the corner. After slicing the Highlanders lead to 27-23 midway through the third quarter, capped off by a nice offensive rebound and assist from Valhalla's ANDREW LEWELLEN to Hernandez, Helix put the clamps down defensively going on a 16-2 run that stretched into the fourth quarter putting the game out of reach at 43-25 with 2:45 left in the game. The Highlanders finished the third quarter strong with guard TITUS YOUNG making some key plays and scoring 7 points in the final three minutes. After an easy layup off a steal Young made a smooth crossover for an easy bucket, then hit a back-breaking 3-pointer as the period ended. "I can't say how proud I am of how hard our kids played tonight," said Norsemen head coach KEITH JACKSON. "Not having DAVID WILSCHETZ, who is averaging 18 (points) and 12 (rebounds), point guard AMIL HERMIZ (four stitches above one eye) and junior guard MATT BUTCHER (broken ankle), the kids that came into tonight did a heck of a job." Wilschetz is in Spain with the Valhalla choir. Helix (17-5, 6-0) posted its ninth straight win and 13th in the last 14 games. "They were a wounded duck out there,” Singer said of the short-handed Norsemen (12-10, 3-3 GHL). “That was the great equalizer." Helix: Kenny Keys 17 (10 reb, 3 stl), Titus Young 13 (9 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Brian Valadez 8 (7 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Gary Thompson 5 (5 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl, 2 blk), Kevin Williams 3 (6 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Tommie Young 1 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), John Singer (1 ast, 1 stl), Kene Anigbogu (2 reb). Valhalla: Manny Hernandez 15 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Thomas McDonald 9 (4 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Andrew Lewellen 5 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), William Speegle 3 (2 reb, 1 stl), Kevin Mills 2 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Spencer Havird (5 reb, 7 ast, 3 stl, 2 blk), Keland Hunter (1 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl).

Grossmont's Robby Nesovic with the left-handed flip shot to help defeat visiting Steele Canyon. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com)

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (2-5-11) — Everything was going according to plan for Mount Miguel, which carried an 8-game winning streak and victories in 14 of its previous 15 games into Friday (Feb. 4) night’s showdown with archrival Monte Vista.

The visiting Monarchs, however, refused to let Mount Miguel put the clamps on a second straight Grossmont Valley League championship.

Led by the aggressive moves of JAMES “Action” JACKSON who poured in 19 points and collected 12 rebounds, the Monarchs spoiled any premature victory celebrations the Matadors might have had by posting a 52-47 victory.

“One thing that’s always been upsetting to me is I have a lot of friends that should be at Monte Vista who are playing at Mount Miguel because they think the basketball program is better there,” said Jackson. “That’s why it feels so good to show those guys that they’re wrong. They think they’re better than us but I guess we proved that they’re not.”

The game boiled down to free throws after XAVIER DANIELS gave Monte Vista a 46-44 lead midway through the fourth quarter. Jackson was 4-for-4 and KJ HOUSTON was 2-for-2 in the final 47 seconds.

“I knew if I made those free throws they couldn’t beat us,” said Houston, who landed a pair of charity tosses with 25.7 seconds remaining.

That wasn’t exactly true but Jackson slammed the lid down when he hit another pair of free throw with 14 seconds remaining.

After Mount Miguel’s IZZY WAGNER hit a 3-pointer on the final shot of the third quarter to give Mount Miguel a 42-40 advantage, Monte Vista’s RUEBEN NWANDO responded by opening the fourth quarter with back-to-back buckets.

“Coach has told me my job is to rebound and that’s what I try to do,” Nwando said. “I was able to contribute a little bit more on the offensive end today (9 points in addition to 12 rebounds).”

Given that Monte Vista has a chance to possibly win the league championship, Houston added, “Everybody looks down on us but today we proved that we can win the big one. We are a hard-working team.”

MARCUS BOOKER paced Mount Miguel with 15 points, but the Matadors could not overcome Monte Vista’s 46-24 rebounding advantage.

“We should have come out with more fire than we did,” said the Matadors’ THOMAS BUTLER. “They put their whole defense on trying to stop me.”

It was successful strategy as Butler finished with only 8 points and 5 rebounds.

MOHAMUD ABDI came off the bench for 11 points, including a pair of treys for Mount Miguel.

“I don’t know what was going on but it looked like we were trying to play for show instead of substance,” said Matadors coach JAY ROWLETT. “We were like walking in mud – going through the motions. But credit Monte Vista for making us look bad.

“We didn’t get any easy points on defense,” Rowlett continued. “Basically we had no transition game at all. We fell in love with taking shots from the perimeter. That’s not Mount Miguel basketball.”

For the record Mount Miguel did land a season-high 10 treys, including 3 by Booker.

“We forgot who we are and how we win games,” Rowlett noted.

Monte Vista: James Jackson 19 (12 reb, 1 ast), Rueben Nwando 9 (12 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Brian Sterling 9 (3 reb, 1 ast), Kylie Luster 7 (8 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), KJ Houston 6 (5 reb, 6 ast, 3 stl), Xavier Daniels 2 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Devin Rendo (2 reb).

Mount Miguel: Marcus Booker 15 (3 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Mohamud Abdi 11 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk, 3 stl), Izzy Wagner 8 (3 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Thomas Butler 8 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Safen Mohammed 3 (1 reb), Cory Littleton 2 (6 reb), Shakeel Hill (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl).

GROSSMONT 61, STEELE CANYON 51 – After an 0-2 start in defending their Grossmont Hills League championship of a year ago, the Grossmont Foothillers have posted four straight league wins and refuse to concede the circuit crown to front-running Helix.

Fact is, the Foothillers (15-8, 4-2 GHL) trail Helix (17-5, 6-0 GHL) with four games remaining.

“People ask me if we are playing for 2nd place. Well, I don’t think so,” said Hillers coach FRANK FOGGIANO. “We haven’t been mathematically eliminated and we play Helix again. I know we’re going to need help but we certainly haven’t lost sight of trying to repeat as league champs.”

In knocking off Steele Canyon Friday (Feb. 4) night Grossmont raced to a 36-18 halftime lead. Senior guard DeSEAN WATERS scored 9 of his 17 points – mostly coming on a pair of treys – as Grossmont advanced to a 17-6 advantage.

It was MICHAEL WNEK’s turn in the second quarter as the senior long-ranger canned 2 of his 3 triples to set the pace for the Foothillers.

ROBBY NESOVIC was Grossmont’s guiding light in the second half when he scored 14 of his game-high 20 points. A 6-foot-4 junior, Nesovic also garnered 11 rebounds – one less than team leader DEREK RUSTICH, who also completed a double-double with 11 points.

Steele Canyon’s MICHAEL JORDAN, a 6-foot-1 junior, performing fearlessly inside the paint against the taller Foothillers, finishing with 16 points and 12 rebounds.

Jordan collected the majority of his rebounds off the offensive glass.

“I don’t know how many offensive rebounds that guy got, but it must have been a lot,” Foggiano observed following the game.

Cougars coach DEREK STEPHENS concurred.

“Jordan was an absolute animal on the boards,” Stephens said. “He kept us in the game.”

The Foothillers avenged a first-round 52-47 loss to the Cougars (8-16, 1-5 GHL).

“Grossmont played a way better game this time than when we saw them the first time,” Stephens said.

DANNY BWINIKA added 13 points for the Cougars in the rematch, while guard ANDREW KING served up 6 assists.

“King has played 90 minutes (in three games) this week,” Stephens noted. “He’s our only true ball handler and he had to be running out of gas.”

Grossmont: Robby Nesovic 20 (11 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), DeSean Waters 17 (5 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl), Derek Rustich 11 (12 reb, 1 stl), Michael Wnek 9 (4 reb, 1 ast), Ryan Green 3 (2 reb, 1 stl), Nick Persinger 1 (2 reb).

Steele Canyon: Michael Jordan 16 (12 reb, 2 stl), Danny Bwinika 13 (3 reb), Casey Balikian 9 (3 reb, 2 stl, 1 ast), Justin Norwood 7 (4 reb, 2 stl), Andrew King 2 (6 ast, 2 reb), P.J. Russell 2 (5 reb), Dylan Kirchhofer 2 (1 ast, 2 stl).

GRANITE HILLS 85, WEST HILLS 58 – This run-and-gun affair was decided in the second quarter Friday (Feb. 4) when the visiting Eagles used a 23-2 scoring spread to produce a season high-water scoring mark in Grossmont Hills League action.

“It was good to get a road win,” Granite Hills coach RANDY ANDERSON said. “We haven’t had one of those since December.”

After scoring only 2 points in the opening frame, Granite Hills’ GARRETT LARCH-MILLER knocked down 11 points in the pivotal second period. Three of his four treys came in that frame and he went on to finish with 35 points.

“He was the complete package,” Granite Hills coach RANDY ANDERSON said, noting that Larch-Miller was 13-of-27 from the floor and 5 for 6 from the foul line to go along with 10 rebounds and 7 assists.

DALTON OTINERU, a hard-nosed defender every night, broke loose for a career-high 20 points against West Hills (8-15, 1-5 GHL). The senior guard banged in eight buckets on 12 shots, with three of his connections coming from long distance.

Six-foot-9 junior center SCOTT ATKINSON cranked out a double-double of 13 points and 13 rebounds for Granite Hills (16-9, 3-3 GHL). He also swatted away 7 shots.

“Atkinson controlled the middle,” Anderson said. “He moves so well inside the paint.”

Despite giving away nearly seven inches in the post, 6-foot-2 ½ ALEX PARSONS powered in 22 points for West Hills on 5-of-8 shooting from the floor and 12-for-12 accuracy from the free throw stripe. The junior strongman also muscled his way to 8 rebounds and a pair of blocks.

“Alex played aggressive inside,” West Hills assistant coach LUCAS ARMSTRONG said. “Most every game he’s playing against somebody with superior size, but he is not intimidated.”

NICK FINDLEY nailed three triples on his way to a 14-point finish for the Wolf Pack. JONNY PRESTON also played well with a dozen points – which included a pair of long balls – 4 assists and 4 steals.

Granite Hills: Garrett Larch-Miller 35 (10 reb, 7 ast, 2 blk, 2 stl), Dalton Otineru 20 (2 reb, 2 ast), Scott Atkinson 13 (13 reb, 2 ast, 7 blk, 1 stl), Joey Grubb 5 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk), James Sadik 3 (4 reb, 2 stl), Blake Perry 3 (2 reb, 1 blk, 2 stl), John Petty 2 (2 reb), Nate Jeter 2 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Wil Wilson 2 (2 ast), Stephen Keppel (1 reb).

West Hills: Alex Parsons 22 (8 reb, 2 ast, 2 blk, 1 stl), Nick Findley 14 (7 reb, 1 ast), Jonny Preston 12 (2 reb, 4 ast, 4 stl), Kevin Straub 4 (2 reb, 3 ast), D.J. Lewis 2 (2 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Justin Sun 2 (1 reb), John Magoon 2, Ralph Bedoe (1 reb, 1 ast), Joey Clark (1 reb, 1 ast).

SANTANA 76, EL CAJON VALLEY 66 – For a while there, Santana coach TIM BARRY must have wondered if he would be able to field a full team for Friday’s (Feb. 4) Grossmont Valley League encounter at El Cajon Valley.

His 6-foot-8 center RYAN BICKFORD is sidelined for at least another week with a thumb injury. JASON CORBISEZ was at home in bed with the flu. CHRISTIAN BARRY, who attended four classes, was so ill that he had to take the afternoon off with the flu. Some how he managed to generate enough energy to return to the court that evening. LANDON LOZOYA, who has overcome a foot injury, was also battling the flu yet managed to play.

“You know we have a chance to win 20 games this season, which would be the most I’ve gotten here,” said coach Barry, now in his 11th season at the Santana helm. “But given a break or two, it could have been so much more.”

It was more a case of sighing than complaining for Barry, who praised senior guard TREY BASS – celebrating his 18th birthday – for supplying the glue that held the Sultans (16-8, 3-2 GVL) together.

Bass finished with 17 points to match his season high. He also handed out 6 assists.

Junior guard DANIEL LEVENS-LOWERY chipped in with 15 points, which included sinking 7 of 9 free throws.

Thanks to Monte Vista’s upset win over front-running Mount Miguel on Friday, the Sultans could conceivably force a three-way tie at the top of the GVL standings since they face the Matadors and Monarchs each one more time.

“We’re still alive and at this point that’s all I can ask for,” Barry said. “We will take a share of a tri-championship. That would be great.”

For El Cajon Valley the highlight was the offensive antics of 6-foot-5 senior DOMINIQUE MILLER, who punched in a career-high 33 points. He landed a dozen field goals – two of them treys – and 7 of 11 free throws. The string bean also gathered in 11 rebounds and handed out 6 assists.

BRENDEN BROCIOUS canned four 3-pointers to add 12 points to the El Cajon Valley coffers.

“(Coach) MARTY (ELLIS) has his kids playing really hard,” Barry said. “The fourth quarter was a wild affair – 56 points between both teams. And that Miller kid, heck, he has to be first team all-league. He had a monster dunk against us where I just sat back and said, ‘Wow.’”

Santana: Trey Bass 17 (5 reb, 6 ast, 2 blk, 1 stl), Daniel Levens-Lowery 15 (2 reb), Landon Lozoya 11 (9 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Jordan Khalaf 10 (3 reb), Mike Rosolino 7 (1 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), James Doherty 6 (2 reb, 4 stl), Christian Barry 6 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk), A.J. Bratlien 4 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

El Cajon Valley: Dominique Miller 33 (11 reb, 6 ast, 3 stl), Brenden Brocious 12 (3 reb), Corey Evens 6 (4 reb), Tyler Varela 5 (3 ast), Diante Ashby 4 (6 reb), Virnel Moon 4, Jeremiah Patton 2 (4 reb).

FOOTHILLS CHRISTIAN 74, OCEAN VIEW CHRISTIAN 31 – The Knights’ dominance of the Citrus South League continued Friday night (Feb. 4) as visiting Foothills Christian posted its 37th consecutive circuit knockout at Ocean View Christian (formerly Midway Baptist) in Chula Vista.

Four Foothills “flyers” reached double scoring digits with guard DALTON MOSSER leading the way with 21 markers to go along with 8 steals and 4 assists.

JAMAL AYTES added 14 points and JOE BUENROSTRO turned in another solid contribution with 11 points. DANIEL LABAHN pitched in with 10 and ANDRE JOHNSON returned to the lineup and tallied 6 points.

Foothills Christian (11-11, 7-0 CSL) will meet Christian in a non-league game Saturday (Feb. 5) at Granite Hills at 7 p.m. This is the second meeting between these teams. Foothills edged the Patriots 49-48 in the Grossmont Holiday Classic when Labahn drained a 28-foot three-pointer with 1.7 seconds left.

Foothills Christian: Dalton Mosser 21 (8 stl, 1 reb, 4 ast, 2 blk), Jamal Aytes 14 (7 reb, 3 ast, 2 blk, 2 stl), Joe Buenrostro 11 (2 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Daniel Labahn 10 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Andre Johnson 6 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 3 stl), Corey Haines 4 (3 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Caleb Hoffman 4 (1 reb), 3 ast),Ian Mathisen 2 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Ricky Adams 2 (1 reb, 2 stl).

Fighting the traffic is El Capitan's Nestor Ramirez, while Mount Miguel forward Cory Littleton (23) gets a hand on the basketball. The Matadors won, 74-37. (Photo by Leslie Autry) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (2-3-11) — Unlike many of his Grossmont High teammates, you won't find RYAN GREEN's name anywhere among the East County statistical leaders unless one considers minutes played.

Green's role is one to gain an assortment of bumps and bruises playing defense. And when he's not defending, the junior guard is asked to play more defense.

By the numbers, Green may not have played great in Wednesday's (Feb. 2) Grossmont Hills League battle with visiting Granite Hills. But when it comes to deciding which team would win, Green actually performed more than admirably in a 60-48 triumph over the Eagles.

Guarding the East County scoring leader, Green saw the Eagles' GARRETT LARCH-MILLER toss in 31 points against him. But considering 41 shots were needed to collect scoring honors – the plus side of the Foothillers' effort – it was the defense of Green and ROBBY NESOVIC which allowed Grossmont to pull away in the second half.

"I've never had a guy get many off me, at least in a big game," said Green. "But it was my job to make him work hard for all of his points."

While Granite Hills milked the shot clock in seeking strong scoring opportunities, it was Larch-Miller who continued to pull the trigger. However, with Green defending, the Eagles' senior connected on just 4 of 18 shots as Grossmont overcame an early 8-2 deficit to grab a 24-18 halftime lead.

"It was up to me to get into his head," Green added. "I had to frustrate him."

Meanwhile, Nesovic prevented Granite Hills from getting the ball inside to SCOTT ATKINSON. The Eagles' 6-foot-8 center posted his own strong defensive outing with 16 rebounds and 6 shot blocks, yet he rarely touched the ball on offense.

"We wanted it more – we're the ones who got the loose ball and hustled," said Nesovic, who limited Atkinson to just two field goals on four shots. "The plan was to be completely focused because we have to win out to have a chance to win league."

Nesovic finished with a double-double with 10 points and 14 rebounds. He also took a charge to force one of 10 Granite Hills turnovers. Grossmont committed five, including just two over the final three quarters to overcome an early 6-point deficit. They finally took the lead in the second quarter on the first of consecutive 3-balls off the bench by J.T. BARNES.

Grossmont's man effort included shutdown efforts by DEREK RUSTICH and MICHAEL WNEK. And when Green eventually fouled out, DeSEAN WATERS took over the Larch-Miller assignment, allowing just one basket down the stretch.

Although the 3-point shot moved Granite Hills to within 45-38, Grossmont immediately pushed the lead back into double figures as Waters nailed seven straight foul shots. Waters, who finished with 13 points to match Wnek, also posted 8 rebounds and 3 assists – all without turnover – in one of his top efforts of the season.

Atkinson and DALTON OTINERU finished with 7 points each, but besides Larch-Miller, the rest of the Eagles shot just 25 percent (6 for 24) from the floor.

Granite Hills: Garrett Larch-Miller 31 (14 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Scott Atkinson 7 (16 reb, 6 blk), Dalton Otineru 7 (5 reb, 2 ast), Blake Perry 2 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), James Sadik 1 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Joey Grubb (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Nate Jeter (1 reb, 1 ast).

Grossmont: DeSean Waters 13 (8 reb, 3 ast), Michael Wnek 13 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Robby Nesovic 10 (14 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk, 1 charge), Derek Rustich 9 (12 reb, 2 stl), J.T. Barnes 6, Ryan Green 5 (2 stl, 1 ast, 1 reb), Austin Swisher 4 (2 reb), Nick Persinger (1 reb).

HELIX 62, STEELE CANYON 39 – When Helix began the basketball season, GARY THOMPSON was still making tackles for the Highlanders’ football team. He was a linebacker. A good one. We are talking All-EastCountySports.com first team good.

Five games passed in the Helix basketball season before Thompson’s sneakers first touched the court during the Red Bluff Invitational. He was probably considered the Highlanders 9th or 10th man at the time. He was counted on for rebounds and defense. If he contributed to the scoring it would be considered a bonus.

Now Thompson, a 6-foot-1, 200-pound junior, could easily be a starter for coach JOHN SINGER’s Grossmont Hills League-leading Highlanders (16-5, 5-0 GHL), who have won 12 of their last 13. But the veteran mentor now in his 30th season, likes Thompson coming off the bench.

No question Thompson has delivered as Helix’s sixth man. He scored 10 points on 5 of 7 shooting and also pulled down 7 rebounds – second highest on the team – in Wednesday’s (Feb. 2) victory over visiting Steele Canyon (8-15, 1-4 GHL)

“He’s been strong for us and gives us what we need,” said Singer.

Thompson does most of his work in the paint. He’s not the biggest player but he has to be one of the strongest.

“I know my job is to get on the glass and to defend,” said Thompson. “I’m getting my minutes and I play every game like it might be my last.”

He was one of five Highlanders to reach double scoring digits against the Cougars.

Guards TOMMIE YOUNG, TITUS YOUNG and center KENNY KEYS scored 14 points apiece for the Highlanders, while BRIAN VALADEZ added 11 points and 9 rebounds.

The Young brothers also had 5 assists apiece and 5 treys between them.

“I gave Titus the assists in the first half (when he scored 11 points) and he gave it back to me in return in the second half,” said Tommie Young, who scored 11 points in the third quarter to help the Highlanders take a 50-32 lead.

Guard ANDREW KING paced Steele Canyon with 10 points and 6 assists, while MICHAEL JORDAN gobbled up 11 rebounds for the Cougars.

“King put us on his back and tried to carry us in the third quarter,” said Steele Canyon coach DEREK STEPHENS.

The Cougars had closed a one-time 22-point deficit to 15 before Tommie Young hit a 3-pointer at the third quarter buzzer, which seemed to drain any comeback hopes Steele Canyon might have entertained.

“You won’t see a team play much better defense than Helix does,” Stephens noted. “They methodically beat you.”

One thing Stephens hadn’t counted on was Helix shooting 54 percent (26 of 49) from the floor.

“We were trying to take away Keys on the inside and they just killed us on the outside,” Stephens said. “I was pleased with how hard our kids played but our lack of stamina did not allow us to stay with them.

Steele Canyon was playing four players short due to violation of team rules.

“I know what the final score says, but I told our kids I didn’t feel like we took a 20-point beating,” Stephens said.

Helix: Tommie Young 14 (3 reb, 5 ast, 4 stl), Kenny Keys 14 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Titus Young 14 (3 reb, 5 ast, 1 stl), Brian Valadez 11 (9 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Gary Thompson 10 (7 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Kevin Williams 4 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Kene Anigbogu 2 (3 reb, 1 blk), John Singer (1 reb, 1 ast).

Steele Canyon: Andrew King 10 (1 reb, 6 ast), Michael Jordan 8 (11 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Casey Balikian 8 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Justin Norwood 4 (1 reb), Danny Bwinika 3 (1 reb), Dylan Kirchhofer 2 (3 reb, 1 ast), P.J. Russell 2 (3 reb, 1 blk), Reggie White (2 reb).

MONTE VISTA 53, SANTANA 39 – At least the Monte Vista Monarchs will have their shot at a possible Grossmont Valley League championship when they travel to front-running Mount Miguel on Friday night (Feb. 4).

The Monarchs suffered a 22-point blowout the first time they faced their Spring Valley rivals, but vow things will be different this time around.

Easily the biggest team in East County, the Monarchs turned into giants after Santana lost 6-foot-8 RYAN BICKFORD to injury in the first half of Wednesday’s (Feb. 2) GVL contest.

KYLIE LUSTER, a 6-foot-5 jumping-jack, pounded in 15 points and snared 14 rebounds for Monte Vista, which broke open the game with a 19-9 run in the fourth quarter.

Injuries continue to gnaw away at Santana (15-8, 2-2 GVL), which tumbled into third place behind idle Mount Miguel and the Monarchs (13-8, 3-1 GVL) with four games remaining. LANDON LOZOYA came into the game with an injured toe. Then things got worse as Bickford suffered possible ligament damage to his right thumb. Bickford left game midway through the second period of a game Monte Vista led 25-23 at halftime.

Bickford scored 6 points, all on putbacks, and gathered five rebounds before leaving the game prematurely. He will have X-Rays on the injury on Thursday.

The wounded Sultans had to live on the perimeter upon Bickford’s departure. That usually isn’t a problem for Santana, which has netted 148 three-pointers this season. The Sultans were seven of 28 on this night, which was below their season shooting percentage from long distance. DANIEL LEVENS-LOWERY accounted for three of the Santana treys.

“After Bickford came out, we couldn’t find the basket,” said Sultans assistant coach JOHN FAILLA. “Monte Vista then made a bundle of free throws down the stretch. They just had more athletes then we do, especially after we lost our big man.”

Santana scored the game’s first eight points, but struggled thereafter.

Three Monarchs collected double-doubles, including JAMES JACKSON (12 points, 11 rebounds) and KJ HOUSTON (11 points, 11 rebounds).

Monte Vista: Kylie Luster 15 (14 reb, 1 blk), James Jackson 12 (11 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), KJ Houston 11 (11 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 5 stl), Rueben Nwando 9 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Brian Sterling 4 (1 ast, 1 stl), Xavier Daniels 2 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Jahzdion Taylor (1 reb, 1 ast), D’ondre Coleman (3 reb).

Santana: Daniel Levens-Lowery 11 (1 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Ryan Bickford 6 (5 reb), Landon Lozoya 5 (3 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Mike Rosolino 5 (1 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Trey Bass 4 (8 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Christian Barry 3 (1 blk), Jason Corbisez 3 (2 reb), Jordan Khalaf 2 (2 reb, 1 blk), James Doherty (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), A.J. Bratlien (1 ast).

VALHALLA 70, WEST HILLS 45 – Nobody can accuse the Valhalla Norsemen of looking ahead to Friday’s (Feb. 4) showdown against Grossmont Hills League-leading Helix.

The Norsemen (12-9, 3-2 GHL) tuned up in fine fashion on Wednesday (Feb. 2), turning the visiting Wolf Pack (8-14, 1-4 GHL) inside out.

Guard SPENCER HAVIRD handled Valhallas assault from the perimeter, knocking down four of five 3-pointers on his way to a team best 15 points.

DAVID WILSCHETZ and MANNY HERNANDEZ cleaned up on the boards, collecting 30 caroms between them. Hernandez executed a double-double of 14 points, 10 rebounds and 4 blocks. Wilschetz did not have his best shooting night as he finished with a dozen points. But he hauled down 20 rebounds.

“We did a lot of good things right,” Valhalla coach KEITH JACKSON said. “We stopped their penetration and got out on their shooters. The only thing I didn’t like is we didn’t do a good job of taking care of the ball.”

Valhalla: Spencer Havird 15 (4 reb, 4 ast, 4 stl), Manny Hernandez 14 (10 reb, 1 ast, 4 blk, 3 stl), Josh McLenachen 9 (2 reb), Thomas McDonald 8 (3 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Kalend Hunter 5 (3 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Kevin Mills 3 (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), William Speegle (2 (1 reb, 2 stl), Andrew Lozoya 2 (2 reb, 1 stl), Andrew Lewellen (2 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl).

West Hills: Nick Findley 13 (2 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Alex Parsons 13 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk), Kevin Straub 8 (3 reb, 2 ast), Jonny Preston 5 (2 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), DJ Lewis 4 (3 reb, 1 ast), John Magoon (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Justin Sun (1 stl), Ralph Bedoe (1 ast, 1 stl).

EL CAPITAN 80, EL CAJON VALLEY 62 – In a free-wheeling Grossmont Valley League affair Wednesday (Feb. 2), the visiting Vaqueros scored their season high while snapping a three-game losing streak in the process.

El Capitan (8-13, 1-3 GVL) totaled 11 threes in 21 attempts and shot 50 percent overall.

It’s no secret what makes El Capitan’s offense tick. The KYGAR brothers — junior TYSON and senior CODY — each had a big scoring night at the expense of the Braves (2-18, 0-4 GVL).

“Teams have been taking away Tyson’s opportunities,” El Capitan coach JASON CAVAZOS admitted. “When we got a little bit of a lead we were able to give him some rest.”

Tyson Kygar ripped off 30 points, sinking nine of 16 shots from the floor. He made 60 percent of 10 shots from beyond the arc.

Cody Kygar led the supporting cast with 23 points and five treys.

The Vaqueros broke the game open with a 27-17 spread in the third quarter making it 62-40.

“We were up by a lot really early.” Cavazos said. “We have been struggling, so this was a good win for us. We got a lot of people a lot of playing time. It was an opportunity for our guys to play without relying on Tyson so much. These guys need to learn how to play basketball – step up and take the initiative.”

DOMINIQUE MILLER paced the Braves with 29 points, one shy of his season high.

El Capitan: Tyson Kygar 30 (4 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Cody Kygar 23 (8 reb, 7 ast, 3 blk, 3 stl), Austin Betts 11 (5 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Nestor Ramirez 6 (2 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk, 4 stls, Anthony Agunat 4 (2 reb, 2 ast), Kameron Brown 3 (5 reb), Austin Digenan 3 (6 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Ryan Quinten (2 reb, 2 ast),

El Cajon Valley: Dominique Miller 29 (2 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk, 6 stls), Alex Jacinto 12 (4 reb, 2 blk, Tyler Varela 8 (2 reb, 1 stl), Diante Ashby 6 (5 reb), Corey Evens 4 (2 reb, 1 stl), Brenden Brocious 3 (2 reb), Jeremiah Patton (6 reb, 1 stl), Aous Mohammad (1 reb).

FOOTHILLS CHRISTIAN 92, MOUNTAIN EMPIRE 50 – The visiting Knights remained undefeated in Citrus South League play Tuesday (Feb. 1) night as DANIEL LaBAHN scored a career-high 28 points.

Foothills Christian: Daniel Labahn 28 (2 reb, 3 stl), Ian Mathisen 20 (13 reb, 2 ast), Dalton Mosser 19 (6 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk, 2 stl), Joe Buenrostro 11 (1 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Caleb Hoffman 9 (2 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Corey Haines 3 (4 reb, 1 blk), Ricky Adams 2 (11 reb, 2 ast).