West Hills' Brandi McCrystal (left) ball fakes to place the La Jolla center into the "popcorn machine" in a 44-36 triumph Friday at home. (Photo by Frank Price. youatplay.com) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

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LAS VEGAS (12-31-13) — A week in the desert wasn’t all that profitable for the Granite Hills Eagles, who lost 4 of 5 encounters in the Las Vegas Holiday Tournament.

Finally, on Monday (Dec. 30) the Eagles got some relief as they rolled over the hometown Desert Pines Jaguars, 52-32.

Granite Hills (5-8) outscored the Jaguars in every quarter, which made for a smooth trip home.

Sophomore MICAYELA HERNANDEZ nailed 3 triples for 15 points, while DEAJANAE HARVEY led the squad with 17 points and 10 steals.

Granite Hills: Deajanae Harvey 17 (4 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk, 10 stl), Micayela Hernandez 15 (1 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Raelleah Moore 8 (6 reb, 3 blk), Emma Kubari 4 (3 reb, 2 blk, 4 stl), Justine Garde 3 (1 stl), Sierra Rains 2 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk, 4 stl), Amanda Dye 2 (2 reb), Haleigh Tharp (2 reb), Anabel Rodriguez (1 reb, 1 blk), Chase Robles (1 reb).

MOUNT MIGUEL 57, MISSION HILLS 32 – The Matadors used a 22-8 second quarter scoring spread to turn Monday’s (Dec. 30) SoCal Holiday Prep Classic WNBA Division encounter into a rout of visiting Mission Bay .

In that pivotal period DEIJAH BLANKS, DEJANAY POPE and ZARIA BRANCH scored 6 points apiece.

Blanks finished with 22 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, while Pope punched 13 markers and corralled 13 rebounds. Branch accounted for two of Mount Miguel ’s 3 treys to finish with 14 points.

Ironically Mount Miguel ’s next game will be against Mission Hills on Jan. 11 in Spring Valley at 4 p.m.

Mount Miguel: Deijah Blanks 22 (6 reb, 5 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Zaria Branch 14 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Dejanay Pope 13 (13 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk), Kamree Harrison 3 (3 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Satera Bates 3 (3 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Brooklyn Miller 2 (3 reb, 1 ast), Rozlyn Pierce 2 (1 reb, 1 blk).

WEST HILLS 38, SONORA 25 – BAILEY ALBERS was the driving force for West Hills (4-6) with 16 points, 3 rebounds and 2 steals as the Wolf Pack sacked Sonora in the final round of the NAIA Division of the SoCal Holiday Prep Classic.

The Wolf Pack outscored the Raiders across the board.

“The girls played hard and played with great effort on defense,” said Wolf Pack coach RYAN KINSER. “We gave one away earlier, but I like the way the girls played in this tournament.”

West Hills: Bailey Albers 16 (3 reb, 2 stl), Brandi McCrystal 7 (8 reb, 1 stl), Tiffany Nguyen 6 (1 reb), Vivian Panella 5 (2 reb, 3 ast), Jessica Fondas 2, Clarissa Stamper 1 (2 reb, 1 blk), Carly Raley 1 (5 reb, 2 stl), Megan Scott (3 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Tila Whitaker (4 reb), Ali Lenhoff (2 reb, 2 stl).

STEELE CANYON 33, GLENMARY (Canada) 30 – Steele Canyon used a 10-3 rush in Monday’s (Dec. 30) SoCal Holiday Prep Classic FIBA Division contest to down the Glenmary Saints of Canada.

“We had better ball movement and made a lot of smart passes,” said Cougars coach PETER RUIZ. “Our shot selection was a lot better as well.”

SHELBY JOHNSON was 4-for-4 from the floor to lead the Cougars with 8 points.

Steele Canyon: Shelby Johnson 8 (2 stl), Sydney Williams 6 (4 reb, 8 stl), Ashley Tavizon 6 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Arlynda Fillmore 6 (1 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Victoria Ethridge 5 (4 reb, 2 stl), Jule Loibl 2 (3 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Nicki DePaola (5 reb, 3 stl).

SANTANA 46, SCRIPPS RANCH 37 – Santana overpowered Scripps Ranch in the middle two quarters of Monday’s (Dec. 30) final round of the Bonita Vista Tournament 32-16 to claim their fifth win in 15 decisions.

Freshman MORGAN TURNER paced a balanced Sultans attack with 12 points.

EMILY KLOSS chipped in with 8 points and SAVANAH FENN and SAVANNAH GARCIA added 7 apiece.

“They all played well together tonight,” said Sultans coach LARRY CLARK. “Everybody was involved. I was just real happy that they played as a team.”

Santana: Morgan Turner 12, Emily Kloss 8, Savanah Fenn 7, Savannah Garcia 7, Taylor Estes 5, Dominique Morrison 4, Kylie Brase 3.

MONTGOMERY 47, HELIX 41 – Helix blew a 24-17 halftime lead to host Montgomery in Monday’s (Dec. 30) Aztec Holiday Classic. It was the third straight loss for the Highlanders (8-5).

Helix led 24-17 at halftime, but then watched the Aztecs take a 21-5 third quarter spread to turn the game around.

Six-foot freshman DANIELLE SIMMONS grabbed 21 rebounds and scored 8 points in the losing effort.

“Danielle Simmons had 7 or 8 attempts on one possession – she shot the ball, got her own rebound, shot the ball, got her own rebound, etc,” said Helix coach PATRICK TABOR. “She’ll start giving me 12-15 points a game when she learns how to finish.

“We’re still missing DESTINI ANDERSON (ankle), but we’ll be alright in January when we get our transfers with us.”

Alluding to the third quarter, when the Highlanders were outscored by 16 points after leading through the first half, Tabor said, “My girls are young and we don’t know how to finish.”

SHIRAH HANCOCK led the Highlanders with 19 points and 8 rebounds.

“Montgomery was the better team today,” Tabor commented. “I don’t know about tomorrow. It’s a new year, new beginning.”

Helix: Shirah Hancock 19 (8 reb), Danielle Simmons 8 (21 reb), Taliah Hooker 7 (4 reb, 3 ast), Camryn Owens 5 (2 ast), Asia Duncan 2 (1 reb, 1 ast), Raeshondra Dike’ (4 reb, 2 ast).

ESPERANZA 58, EL CAPITAN 15 – Only three Vaqueros scored in El Capitan’s SoCal Holiday Prep Classic FIBA Division game on Monday (Dec. 30) at Canyon Crest.

The Vaqueros (4-6) did not score more than six points in any quarter.

The bright spot for El Capitan was VALERIA GARAY pulling down 12 rebounds.

El Capitan: Valeria Garay 6 (12 reb, 1 stl), Kassidy Kygar 5 (2 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Cierra Cutler 4 (9 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), MacKenzie Mead (2 reb), Mariel Vega 2 (reb), Elizabeth Ramos (1 stl).

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LAKESIDE (12-29-13) — In a battle of East County rivals. host El Capitan knocked off Steele Canyon. 35-27. in a SoCal Holiday Prep Classic FIBA Division
on Saturday (Dec. 28).

VALERIA GARAY led the Vaqueros in scoring with 11 points. She also grabbed 10 rebounds.

“We played about as bad as we can play in the first quarter.” said El Capitan co-head coach RICK WILKERSON. “We were behind until the third quarter. and we finally got ahead by the end of that quarter 22-20. We outscored them by 6 points in the fourth quarter. They got one field goal in the 2nd half.

“The way we started out it about gave me a heart attack.”

ASHLEY TAVIZON and JULE LOIBL paced Steele Canyon with 11 points apiece.

“In the first half we were putting on pressure.” said Cougars coach PETER RUIZ. “We led by 4 points going into the second half. We had a lot of mental breakdowns and we were 0-16 in the fourth quarter.

“The comeback was there had we been knocking down our shots.” Ruiz added. “We’ll see them again in two weeks in conference play.”

El Capitan: Valeria Garay 11 (10 reb. 1 ast. 1 stl). Kassidy Kygar 9 (4 reb. 4 ast. 3 stl). Cierra Cutler 6 (5 reb. 1 ast. 5 stl). Maribel Vega 5 (4 reb. 1 ast). MacKenzie Mead 4 (2 reb. 1 ast. 1 stl). Elizabeth Ramos (1 reb. 1 stl). Torrey Capoocia (1 reb).

Steele Canyon: Ashley Tavizon 11 (1 reb. 2 stl). Jule Loibl 11 (3 stl). Nicki DePaula 2 (7 reb). Arlynda Fillmore 2 (6 stl). Sydney Williams 1 (8 reb. 1 stl). Dai’re Watkins (2 reb). Victoria Ethridge (5 reb).

SANTANA 59. SD-SOUTHWEST 20 – The Sultans used a 24-3 second quarter to turn Saturday’s (Dec. 28) Bonita Vista Tournament encounter into a blowout.

SAVANNAH GARCIA led the way with 16 points. and DOMINIQUE MORRISON popped in 10 points.

“We played really good defense. holding Southwest to a single digit across the board.” said Sultans coach LARRY CLARK.

Santana: Savannah Garcia 16. Dominique Morrison 10. Morgan Turner 9. Emily Kloss 7. Madison Barry 6. Taylor Estes 6. Savanah Fenn 5.

Temecula-GREAT OAK 55. MOUNT MIGUEL 46 – The Matadors tangled with state power Great Oak of Temecula but came up short in Saturday’s (Dec. 28) SoCal Holiday Prep Classic WNBA Division game. despite 25 points from DEIJAH BLANKS.

“They’re a good team.” Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL said of Great Oak. “We were up 25-20 and they finished the half on a 13-0 run to be up by 8.”

“With 3 minutes left. we were down by 3 then we had some calls go against us. (Great Oaks) shot 9-for-13 on free throws in the fourth quarter.” Sandoval added.

“I had to bench ZARIA BRANCH and KAMREE HARRISON the whole fourth quarter – they weren’t doing anything.” the coach said.

Mount Miguel: Deijah Blanks 25 (5 reb. 3 ast. 1 stl). Zaria Branch 10 (3 reb. 1 ast. 1 blk). Dejanay Pope 4 (8 reb). Kamree Harrison 3. Brooklyn Miller 2 (2 reb. 1 blk. 1 stl). Taylor Young (1 reb). Rozlyn Pierce 5 (1 ast. 1 stl). Satera Bates (2 ast).

EL CAJON VALLEY 41. CHRISTIAN 27; EASTLAKE 76. EL CAJON VALLEY 26 – El Cajon Valley split a double header in Saturday’s (Dec. 28) Crawford Tournament. with the Braves knocking off Christian and Eastlake nailing El Cajon Valley.

Against Christian JOANNA DELA CRUZ led the Braves in scoring with 29 points and made 11 thefts. while TONI ENGLAND pitched in 11 and hauled down 17 rebounds.

Dela Cruz led the Braves against Eastlake with 19 points.

“We’ve seen them twice before. this season.” noted El Cajon Valley coach MARC BOYKINS of Eastlake. “They’re a really good team. We’ve been scheduled against Eastlake in every tournament we’ve been in. It’s kind of a bummer. but our girls go out and compete. Come the playoffs. we’re going to see Eastlake.”

“I’m happy with the way things are going. We are competing even in games people think we’ll be blown out.”

El Cajon Valley vs. Christian: Joanna Dela Cruz 29 (7 reb. 2 ast. 11 stl). Toni England 11 (17 reb. 2 ast. 8 stl). Ninwey Esho 1 (2 reb. 1 ast. 4 stl). Nashea Lampkin (9 reb. 6 stl). Sumaya Hameed (5 reb). Fareh Kannah (3 reb). Mary Grace Ronquillo (1 reb. 3 ast. 1 stl). Mary Awedich (1 reb).

Christian (incomplete): Brooke Owens 11. Taylor Miller 6. Anni Atterbury 3. Sage Salacup 2. Kaylee Keith 2.

El Cajon Valley vs. Eastlake: Joanna Dela Cruz 19 (7 reb. 2 ast. 2 stl). Toni England 5 (5 reb. 2 stl). Ninwey Esho 2 (2 reb). Sumaya Hameed (3 reb. 1 stl). Nashea Lampkin (1 reb. 3 stl).

“We came out and played hard in the second half.” said Helix coach PATRICK TABOR. “We’ll live to fight another day. It’s alright. I’m playing for March.”

DESTINI ANDERSON did not play as her ankle is still bothering her.

“If she doesn’t play. we lose.” Tabor said simply.

Helix: Camryn Owens 16. Danielle Simmons 8. Shirah Hancock 7. Raeshondra Dike’ 7. Taliah Hooker 6.

DOUGLAS (Ariz.) 39. GRANITE HILLS 38; EL SEGUNDO 35. GRANITE HILLS 31 – Five points led Granite Hills to a double defeat in the Las Vegas Holiday Tournament on Saturday (Dec. 28).

The Eagles lost in the final seconds to Douglas . and then a scoreless second quarter cost them the win against El Segundo.

Granite Hills vs. Douglas: Deajanae Harvey 13 (7 reb. 5 ast. 9 stl). Raelleah Moore 11 (13 reb). Micayela Hernandez 5 (2 reb. 2 ast. 2 blk). Sierra Rains 3 (1 reb. 4 blk). Haleigh Tharp 2 (3 reb). Madison Lumb 2 (1 reb). Emma Kubari 2 (8 blk). Anabel Rodriguez (4 reb).

Granite Hills vs. El Segundo: Micayela Hernandez 10 (4 reb. 1 ast. 1 stl). Deajanae Harvey 9 (5 reb. 1 ast. 2 stl). Raelleah Moore 4 (11 reb. 3 blk). Emma Kubari 3 (3 reb. 3 blk. 1 stl). Anabel Rodriguez 2 (8 reb. 2 blk). Justine Garde 1. Sierra Rains (3 blk. 2 stl).

ANDERSON 46. WEST HILLS 27 – The Cubs of Anderson (12-2) cruised past West Hills in Saturday’s (Dec. 28) SoCal Holiday Prep Classic NAIA Division contest.

The pivotal period was the second when Anderson gained a 16-3 advantage.

“We played good defense but shot horrible from the field.” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “And we had way too many turnovers that lead to easy baskets.”

West Hills: Bailey Albers 9 (5 reb. 6 stl. 1 blk). Megan Scott 7 (3 reb. 2 stl). Vivian Panella 4 (3 reb. 1 ast. 1 stl). Carly Raley 4 (7 reb. 3 stl). Brandi McCrystal 2 (7 reb. 1 stl). Tila Whitaker 1 (1 reb). Ali Lenhoff (1 reb. 2 stl). Tiffany Nguyen (1 reb). Clarissa Stamper (2 reb. 1 ast. 1 stl).

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SPRING VALLEY (12-28-13) — DEIJAH BLANKS scored 27 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to lead Mount Miguel to a 49-48 overtime victory over Manhattan Beach-Mira Costa in Friday’s (Dec. 27) SoCal Holiday Prep Classic WNBA Division contest.

Mount Miguel sent the game into overtime as ZARIA BRANCH made a steal and passed it to Blanks. who made a basket with 1.3 seconds remaining to create the extra stanza.

The game was decided in overtime when DEJANAY POPE hit two free throws in the final 0.03 seconds.

Ironically. Pope was only 3-for-7 on free throws in the game.

Blanks. however. was 11-for-13 from the charity stripe.

“This was a really good test for our team because we played against adversity.” said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL.

Mount Miguel: Deijah Blanks 27 (7 reb. 2 ast. 2 stl). Zaria Branch 9 (3 reb. 2 stl). Kamree Harrison 4 (1 reb. 1 stl). Dejanay Pope 3 (8 reb. 1 blk. 3 stl). Satera Bates 2 (2 reb. 1 stl). Rozlyn Pierce 2 (2 reb). Brooklyn Miller 2 (2 reb).

WEST HILLS 44. LA JOLLA 36 – The Wolf Pack played lock-on defense as they took a 24-9 lead over the Vikings by halftime and then held on to claim Friday’s (Dec. 27) SoCal Holiday Prep Classic NAIA Division contest at La Costa Canyon.

“We played great defense in the first half. holding them to only 9 points.” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “We struggled offensively in the 3rd quarter. had too many turnovers. We played good defense the last 4 minutes and were able to hang on.

“It was a very good win for our young team.”

VIVIAN PANELLA led the Wolf Pack with 11 points. while MEGAN SCOTT and BAILEY ALBERS each pitched in 10 points. ALI LENHOFF hauled down 8 rebounds.

West Hills: Vivian Panela 11 (1 reb. 1 ast. 1 stl). Megan Scott 10 (7 reb. 1 ast. 5 stl). Bailey Albers 10 (7 reb. 3 stl). Brandi McCrystal 5. Jessica Fondas 4 (2 reb). Ali Lenhoff 2 (8 reb. 2 stl). Carly Raley 1 (4 reb). Clarissa Stamper 1 (1 reb). Tiffany Nguyen (2 ast. 1 stl). Tila Whitaker (1 reb. 1 ast. 1 stl).

STEELE CANYON 48. E.W. PRATT (Canada) 20 – The Cougars raced to a 16-4 first quarter lead and held E.W. Pratt of Canada to single digits across the board in Friday’s (Dec. 27) SoCal Holiday Prep Classic FIBA Division contest.

ASHLEY TAVIZON scored 21 points as the Cougars registered their first win in nine starts.

Steele Canyon was tough on the boards. led by ARLYNDA FILLMORE’s 11 caroms and 10 more by NICKI DePAOLA.

“We lagged a little in the second quarter.” said Cougars coach PETER RUIZ. “

But at halftime we had a little talk and came back and we were able to get the monkey off our back.”

Steele Canyon: Ashley Tavizon 21 (5 reb. 3 stl). Jule Loibl 6 (3 reb. 5 ast. 7 stl). Victoria Bott 5 (2 reb. 5 stl). Nicki DePaola 4 (10 reb. 2 stl). Arlynda Fillmore 6 (11 reb. 1 ast. 2 stl). Victoria Ethridge 4 (3 reb. 3 stl). Shelby Johnson 2 (1 reb. 2 stl). Dai’re Watkins (4 reb). Sydney Williams (7 reb. 2 blk. 3 stl).

POINT LOMA 40. EL CAJON VALLEY 36 – JOANNA DELA CRUZ drilled in 21 points for El Cajon Valley but the Braves faltered in the third quarter. which led to a loss to the Pointers in Friday’s (Dec. 27) Crawford Tournament.

“We got out-rebounded. but we played some good basketball.” said Braves coach MARC BOYKINS. “We competed – got some good compliments from the other coach. I don’t think they expected us to do as well against them as we did. We had a bad third quarter. but other than that we played really. really well.”

El Cajon Valley: Joanna Dela Cruz 21 (6 reb. 2 stl). Mary Grace Ronquillo 6 (2 reb. 3 ast. 1 stl). Toni England 5 (5 reb. 1 ast). Nashea Lampkin 4 (2 reb. 1 stl). Ninwey Esho 3 (2 reb. 1 ast. 1 stl).

CULVER CITY 52. GRANITE HILLS 15; CENTENNIAL 72. GRANITE HILLS 32 – It was a double disaster for Granite Hills in Friday’s (Dec. 27) Las Vegas Holiday Tournament at Centennial High.

The Eagles were outscored 124-47. which added up to a pair of lopsided losses.

Against Culver City the Eagles fell behind 20-2 and never recovered.

Against Centennial it was even worse for the Eagles as they fell behind 27-2 after one quarter.

Granite Hills vs. Culver City: Deajanae Harvey 5 (5 reb. 4 stl). Raelleah Moore 3 (8 reb. 1 stl). Emma Kubari 3 (1 reb. 2 blk. 1 stl). Justine Garde 3. Haleigh Tharp 1 (3 reb). Micayela Hernandez (3 reb). Sierra Rains (3 blk. 1 stl). Anabel Rodriguez (2 blk).

Granite Hills vs. Centennial: Micayela Hernandez 15. Deajanae Harvey 11 (5 reb. 2 ast. 4 stl). Raelleah Moore 6 (5 reb). Haleigh Tharp (2 reb. 2 blk). Emma Kubari (2 reb. 1 stl). Madison Lumb (1 reb). Anabel Rodriguez (1 reb. 1 blk). Sierra Rains (2 blk).

OTAY RANCH 51. HELIX 36 – The Highlanders were on par for a victory but we outscored by Otay Ranch 22-4 in the final quarter of Friday’s (Dec. 27) Aztec Holiday Classic at Montgomery.

“We got bounced around tonight.” lamented Helix coach PATRICK TABOR. “I got mollywacked in the fourth quarter.”

SHIRAH HANCOCK led the Highlanders with 17 points.

DESTINI ANDERSON reinjured her ankle on the second or third play of the game.

“When Anderson is hurt I lose 15-21 points.” said Tabor. “She’s my leading scorer. The thing about the game of basketball is we have to learn to play 32 minutes. I’m proud of them. I told the girls I’ve never seen anybody in CIF in December. We still have time.”

Helix: Shirah Hancock 17. Camryn Owens 6. Taliah Hooker 5. Destini Anderson 4. Danielle Simmons 2. Raeshondra Dike’ 2.

EL CAPITAN 46. MARANATHA 34 – Scoring was all that was provided for this SoCal Holiday Prep Classic FIBA Division game on Friday (Dec. 27).

El Capitan: Ciera Cutler 19 (6 reb. 1 stl). Valeria Garay 10 (6 reb. 1 ast. 1 stl). Kassidy Kygar 8 (6 reb. 4 ast. 6 stl). Mariel Vega 4 (2 reb. 1 ast. 1 stl). Elizabeth Ramos 3 (5 reb. 1 ast. 2 stl). Torrey Capoocia 2 (2 reb. 1 stl).

HILLTOP 34. SANTANA 30 – No report was received for this Bonita Vista Tournament game.

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OTAY MESA (12-27-13) — Four Highlanders reached double digits as Helix mauled Monte Vista. 74-27. in the opening round of Thursday’s (Dec. 26) Aztec Holiday Classic at Montgomery.

SHIRAH HANCOCK rolled a double-double of 12 points and 10 rebounds and 4 assists.

DESTINI ANDERSON led Helix with 17 points and 7 rebounds. while RAESHONDRA DIKE’ popped in 15 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. CAMRYN OWENS contributed 12 points and 8 assists to the Highlanders’ totals.

“We did what we were supposed to do.” said Helix coach PATRICK TABOR. We are a lot more athletic. talented. We are working hard on man-to-man defense. That’s where we are lacking.”

Helix: Destini Anderson 17 (7 reb. 1 ast. 1 blk). Raeshondra Dike’ 15 (8 reb. 1 ast. 2 stl). Shirah Hancock 12 (10 reb. 4 ast. 1 stl). Camryn Owens 12 (2 reb. 8 ast. 2 blk). Taliah Hooker 9 (1 ast. 1 blk). Asia Duncan 5 (3 reb. 2 ast). Danielle Simmons 4 (3 reb).

MOUNT MIGUEL 52. OUR LADY OF PEACE 49 – DEIJAH BLANKS scored 30 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to lead the Matadors past Our Lady of Peace in Thursday’s (Dec. 26) opening round of the SoCal Holiday Prep Classic WNBA Division encounter.

“She was great offensively but I can’t say much about her defense.” said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. “I’m disgusted with our defensive effort. We were fine offensively but there’s a lot to be desired with our defense. We led 48-36 early in the fourth quarter and then made enough mistakes to turn it into a 2-point game.

ZARIA BRANCH pitched in 10 points for the Matadors.

Mount Miguel: Deijah Blanks 30 (7 reb. 1 blk. 3 stl). Zaria Branch 10 (3 reb. 1 ast. 2 stl). Brooklyn Miller 5 (2 reb). Kamree Harrison 3 (1 reb). Satera Bates 2 (1 reb. 1 stl). Dejanay Pope 2 (7 reb. 1 blk. 4 stl). Taylor Young (1 reb. 1 ast). Rozlyn Pierce (2 reb).

OCEANSIDE 48. WEST HILLS 47 – West Hills led 33-21 at halftime but could not maintain the advantage in Thursday’s (Dec. 26) SoCal Holiday Prep Classic NAIA Division contest.

“We played a good first half. rebounded and took care of the ball.” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “We gave the game away in the second half. struggled to score and had too many turnovers.

“We had a double digit lead in the 4th quarter but collapsed when they threw a little bit of pressure on us.”

BAILEY ALBERS led the Wolf Pack with 16 points and MEGAN SCOTT tossed in 10.

West Hills: Bailey Albers 16 (4 reb. 1 blk. 2 stl). Megan Scott 10 (3 reb. 1 ast. 5 stl). Brandi McCrystal 8 (4 reb. 2 stl). Vivian Panella 8 (2 reb. 1 ast. 2 stl). Jessica Fondas 4 (1 reb). Carly Raley 1 (4 reb. 1 ast. 1 stl). Ali Lenhoff (3 reb). Tila Whitaker (3 reb. 1 stl). Tiffany Nugyen (1 reb).

ALHAMBRA 55. SANTANA 36 – The Sultans submitted to a 23-7 second quarter and never regained their footing in Thursday’s (Dec. 26) opening round of the Bonita Vista Tournament.

Santana: Savannah Garcia 9. Taylor Estes 7. Madison Barry 6. Emily Kloss 5. Dominique Morrison 5. Savanah Fenn 2. Kylie Brase 2.

SAN DIEGO 51. STEELE CANYON 26 – The Cougars were battered in the middle two periods 33-8 and succumbed to San Diego in the first round of the
SoCal Holiday Prep Classic FIBA Division on Thursday (Dec. 26).

SYDNEY WILLIAMS led Steele Canyon with 12 points.

“We were pretty much the same talent wise but didn’t wake up until the fourth quarter.” said Steele Canyon coach PETER RUIZ. “We had a lot of open shots but didn’t knock them down.

“My leading scorer. ISABELLA WELCH. had a concussion at Patrick Henry. She’ll be out for 2-3 weeks. I’m hoping she’ll be ready for league. She plays a big role on our team. is one of the team captains. She has one speed – 100 mph.

“It would have helped to have her tonight but we won’t rush her – we’ll need her in the long run.”

Steele Canyon: Sydney Williams 12 (4 reb. 1 stl). Jule Loibl 4 (4 reb). Arlynda Fillmore 4 (2 stl). Ashley Tavizon 2 (3 reb). Nicki DePaola 2 (3 reb). Dai’re Watkins 2 (2 stl), Victoria Ethridge (1 reb, 1 stl).

MARSHALL 66, EL CAPITAN 16 – The Vaqueros fell behind 12-0 in the first quarter of the SoCal Holiday Prep Classic FIBA Division in Thursday’s (Dec. 26 opening round.

The blowout continued across the board as El Capitan (3-5) was outscored in all four quarters.

El Capitan: Cierra Cutler 8 (5 reb, 1 stl), Kassidy Kygar 4 (1 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Valeria Garay 4 (7 reb, 2 stl), Elizabeth Ramos 4, Mariel Vega 1 (2 ast, 1 stl), Torrey Capoocia (1 reb), MacKenzie Mead (1 stl).

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CORONADO (12-24-13) — The visiting Granite Hills took an 18-2 first-quarter lead in Monday’s (Dec. 23) third-place game of the Coronado Holiday Invitational, and then cruised to a 56-16 win.

MICAYELA HERNANDEZ paced the Eagles with 14 points – the majority coming on 4 treys.

SIERRA RAINS added 10 points, including a pair of triples.

DEAJANAE HARVEY had 11 steals, while RAELLEAH MOORE collected 10 rebounds for the Eagles (5-3).

“Nae did a great job during the game,” said Eagles coach JERRY PARKER. “We stayed out of foul trouble and that was big. We had too many fouls against Imperial (Saturday, Dec. 21 – second game of a double-header). It was a little tough in that last game, back-to-back. We were a little tired in that game.”

Granite Hills: Micayela Hernandez 14 (4 reb), Sierra Rains 10 (4 reb, 2 stl), Anabel Rodriguez 8 (2 reb), Deajanae Harvey 7 (5 reb, 11 stl), Raelleah Moore 6 (10 reb, 6 stl), Justine Garde 5 (3 stl), Haleigh Tharp 2 (3 reb, 1 stl), Delaney Casey 2 (3 reb), Emma Kubari 2 (1 stl), Madison Lumb (1 reb), Chase Robles (1 reb).

The Mount Miguel Matadors capture the Kiwanis Tournament title (Courtesy photo)

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TIERRASANTA (12-22-13) — There’s not much doubt that The Bishop’s is the top team in the San Diego Section girls basketball rankings. But by the same account, Mount Miguel is arguably a solid second as the Matadors slapped Serra, 64-41, to capture Saturday’s (Dec. 21) 67th annual Kiwanis Tournament championship.

The bottom line is the Matadors are 9-1, losing only to The Bishop’s.

Mount Miguel took a 37-25 lead by half time.

“We just shut them down,” said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. “We kept them out of the lane and kept them off the offensive glass.”

DEIJAH BLANKS, an all-tournament selection, poured in 26 points and grabbed 15 rebounds for the Matadors.

“I’ve become more of a scorer this year,” Blanks said.

ZARIA BRANCH was also named to the all-tournament team as she knocked down 12 points, made 5 steals and dished 4 assists.

The unsung hero in the Matadors’ latest onslaught was sophomore ROZLYN PIERCE, who cleared 13 rebounds and pitched in 5 points.

When these teams met earlier in the season, the Matadors won 77-70.

So this was a completely different game, considering the Matadors held Serra to 29 fewer points than in the first go-round.

“We changed the match-ups this time,” Sandoval said. “From a defensive standpoint this was our best game.”

Mount Miguel had a 57-30 rebounding advantage, which definitely swung the vote the Matadors’ way.

Mount Miguel: Deijah Blanks 26 (15 reb, 4 stl, 1 blk), Zaria Branch 12 (1 reb, 4 ast, 5 stl), Dejanay Pope 7 (4 reb, 3 stl), Rozlyn Pierce 5 (13 reb), Satera Bates 5 (2 reb), Taylor Young 4 (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk), Kamree Harrison 3 (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Brooklyn Miller 2 (6 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk).

GRANITE HILLS 54, EASTLAKE 41; IMPERIAL 54, GRANITE HILLS 47 – Sweeping double-headers in baseball are not uncommon. To do so in basketball is much more difficult, especially when there are only a couple of hours between games.

Such was the case when Granite Hills split a pair in Saturday’s (Dec. 21) Coronado Holiday Invitational.

In the opener the Eagles cruised past Eastlake and 10 players contributed to the scoring, led by DEAJANAE HARVEY’s 14 points and 7 rebounds.

MICAYELA HERNANDEZ added 12 points, while MADISON LUMB contributed 11 points and 6 rebounds.

“Lumb was a factor in the paint and we really needed that out of her tonight versus Eastlake,” said Granite Hills coach JERRY PARKER. “ Madison is our lone senior and she really helps us out there from a leadership standpoint.”

Ninety minutes after the first game the Eagles were back on the floor against Imperial in a game that had been postponed from the previous day due to Imperials’ transportation problems.

The Eagles started out quickly, leading 11-8, but fell behind 41-32 after three periods.

DEAJANAE HARVEY again led the Eagles with 21 points and RAELLEAH MOORE had 9.

Nobody else scored more than 5 points.

“Our team got into some foul trouble in the first half of the second game and it disrupted our flow on offense,” said Eagles coach JERRY PARKER. “We turned the ball over too much in the half-court. We have to do a better job of rebounding, and playing defense without fouling.”

Granite Hills vs. Eastlake: Deajanae Harvey 14 (7 reb), Micayela Hernandez 12 (3 reb), Madison Lumb 11 (6 reb), Raelleah Moore 4 (7 reb), Justine Garde 3, Emma Kubari 3 (2 reb), Sierra Rains 2 (3 reb), Haleigh Tharp 2 (8 reb), Anabel Rodriguez 2 (2 reb), Delaney Casey 1 (3 reb).

Granite Hills vs. Imperial: Deajanae Harvey 21 (2 reb, 4 stl), Raelleah Moore 9 (4 reb, 2 stl), Anabel Rodriguez 5 (3 reb, 1 stl), Madison Lumb 3 (5 reb, 2 stl), Sierra Rains 2 (1 reb, 2 stl), Micayela Hernandez 2 (1 reb, 2 stl), Justine Garde 1 (1 stl), Haleigh Tharp 1 (3 reb), Emma Kubari 2 (1 reb, 2 stl), Delaney Casey (1 reb).

HELIX 50, EL CAMINO 39 – The Helix Highlanders are probably the most unheralded team in East County at the moment.

The Highlanders knocked off El Camino on Saturday (Dec. 21) in the Lady Monarch Classic in La Mesa.

Freshman DESTINI ANDERSON, who suffered an ankle injury, has returned to the Helix lineup with a vengeance. Against the Wildcats she scored 21 points and grabbed 17 rebounds.

A couple other members of the freshman laden Helix crew made major contributions to victory.

DANIELLE SIMMONS had 10 points and 10 rebounds, while CAMRYN OWENS scored 10 points and dished 5 assists.

“I think our girls have figured it out about mental toughness,” said Helix coach PATRICK TABOR. “They are learning about playing for 32 minutes.”

Helix: Destini Anderson 21 (17 reb, 1 stl), Camryn Owens 10 (3 reb, 5 ast), Danielle Simmons 10 (10 reb), Shirah Hancock 7 (5 reb, 4 stl), Raeshondra Dike’ 2 (6 reb, 1 ast), Taliah Hooker (2 reb, 2 ast), Chyna Williams (1 reb).

MIRA MESA 53, GROSSMONT 45 – One thing the Foothillers have proven they can do is rebound, and that should be bolstered even more due to junior varsity call-up LYDIA HALCOT, who collected a team best 12 rebounds in Saturday’s (Dec. 21) final round of the Kiwanis Tournament.

BRIA MILLER led the offensive scoring machine with 19 points and 7 rebounds, while LAUREN WEIGEL added 15 points and 9 boards.

KEANA LOVELACE had 13 steals.

The fact that Grossmont (3-4) scored only 2 points in the first quarter left the Foothillers to play catch-up the rest of the way.

Grossmont: Bria Miller 19 (7 reb), Lauren Weigel 15 (9 reb), Keana Lovelace 7 (13 stl), Lydia Halcot 2 (12 reb), Hanna Hibbs 2.

HILLTOP 48, SANTANA 36 – Another sluggish first quarter start for Santana (3-7) in Saturday’s (Dec. 21) final round of the Kiwanis Tournament led to the Sultans 5th loss in their last six starts.

Santana (3-7) continues to prove that it’s a better finisher than starter.

“I really liked our defensive intensity in the first half,” said Santana coach LARRY CLARK (even though the Sultans trailed 20-9 at intermission.

KYLIE BRASE led an 18-point fourth quarter charge by Santana, scoring most of her team-high 10 points in that period.

“We made a nice comeback but we need a better start,” Clark said.

Santana: Kylie Brase 10, Dominique Morrison 8, Emily Kloss 7, Savanah Fenn 5, Morgan Turner 5, Madison Barry 1.

PATRICK HENRY 45, STEELE CANYON 31 – The Cougars netted only seven baskets and tried to make a living from the free throw line. But the combination wasn’t healthy enough to allow Steele Canyon to get its first victory in seven games as the visitors fell to Patrick Henry in Saturday’s (Dec. 21) non-league game.

The Cougars made 16 of 26 free throws and only one of their seven buckets was a 3-pointer by JULE LOIBL.

Steele Canyon took a 10-7 first quarter lead and trailed only 27-26 after three quarters.

“We led out in the first quarter and then got in some foul trouble,” said Cougars coach PETER RUIZ. “In the third quarter we were down by one point and we just ran out of players and ran out of gas. We had two girls out ill.”

ISABELLA WELCH paced the Cougars with 11 points.

Steele Canyon: Isabella Welch 11 (1 reb), Ashley Tavizon 8 (2 reb, 3 stl), Jule Loibl 7, Sydney Williams 2 (5 reb), Nicki DePaola 2 (4 reb, 1 stl), Estabillo 1 (1 stl), Victoria Ethridge (2 reb), Shelby Johnson (2 stl).

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (12-21-13) — JOANNA DELA CRUZ was unstoppable as El Cajon Valley felled Foothills Christian, 44-33, in a non-league game on Friday (Dec. 20).

Dela Cruz scored 25 points, grabbed 10 rebounds and made 4 steals. She nailed 4 three-pointers and 7 of 10 free throws.

It was the Braves’ first victory in six starts.

El Cajon Valley jumped in front 14-6 in the first quarter but had to stave off a Foothills Christian rally before closing the door with an 11-6 fourth quarter scoring advantage.

“There were times we were on and times when it was like the light switch was off,” said El Cajon Valley coach MARC BOYKINS. “I want to continue to build a team and win. I want the girls to feel good about the way the game went. It was good to get that first win.”

El Cajon Valley: Joanna Dela Cruz 25 (10 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Ninwey Esho 9 (6 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl), Toni England 4 (7 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Mary Grace Ronquillo 3 (2 reb, 6 ast, 2 stl), Nashea Lampkin 3 (5 reb, 4 stl), Sumaya Hameed (8 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl).

VALHALLA 52, MADISON 19 – Valhalla coach LOWE LEASEAU was celebrating the birth of his third grandchild on Friday (Dec. 20), the day the Norsemen knocked off visiting Madison in a non-league contest.

The Norsemen (1-1) outscored the Warhawks across the board.

TIANA SILVER paced Valhalla with 24 points, including 4 treys.

SHYLA CRIGER-PHILIPP was right on her heels with 20 points, including hitting 6 of 8 from the free throw line.

Valhalla: Tiana Silver 24, Shyla Criger-Philipp 20, Julianna Qsar 5, Bianca Gorges 2, Alexis 1.

HELIX 50, UNIVERSITY CITY 41 – Freshman DESTINI ANDERSON recovered from an early season ankle injury to roll a double-double of 15 points and 10 rebounds as the visiting Highlanders (5-2) knocked University City in Friday’s (Dec. 20) Lady Monarch Classic.

SHIRAH HANCOCK and CAMRYN OWENS each pitched in 11 points, and Owens also had 10 assists while Hancock had 8 rebounds..

RAESHONDRA DIKE’ pulled down 11 rebounds to go with 7 points.

“My babies did so good today,” said Helix coach PATRICK TABOR. “I’m proud of them. UC is my alma mater, so it was special.”

“We took a tough loss against Calexico and I had to remind my girls that it’s a privilege to be on varsity. Tonight we really came out and played with a lot of fire. I told them they grew up tonight.”

Helix: Destini Anderson 15 (10 reb, 1 ast), Shirah Hancock 11 (8 reb, 2 ast), Camryn Owens 11 (10 ast, 1 stl), Raeshondra Dike’ 7 (10 reb), Taliah Hooker 6 (1 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Asia Duncan (1 reb).

MOUNT MIGUEL 52, POWAY 32 – In days gone by this would be a perennial playoff battle. But the Matadors made it look easy as they plowed under Poway in Friday’s (Dec. 20) Kiwanis Tournament action.

DEIJAH BLANKS scored 23 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, dished 6 assists, made 5 blocks and had 2 steals for the Matadors (8-1), who broke the game open with a 19-3 against the Titans.

That added up to a 37-13 lead... game over.

“We forced them into 30 turnovers,” said Mount Miguel coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. “You don’t do that against Poway teams as a rule.”

Mount Miguel will face Serra on the Conquistadors’ court on Saturday (Dec. 21) for the Kiwanis Tournament championship.

Mount Miguel: Deijah Blanks 23 (7 reb, 6 ast, 5 blk, 2 stl), Zaria Branch 12 (6 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk, 3 stl), Brooklyn Miller 5 (2 reb, 1 blk), Taylor Young 5 (1 ast, 2 stl), Dejanay Pope 4 (9 reb, 4 stl), Satera Bates 3 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Kamree Harrison (3 reb, 1 ast), Rozlyn Pierce (3 reb).

EC-SOUTHWEST 58, SANTANA 35 – Another slow start by Santana led to a lopsided loss to El Centro-Southwest in Friday’s (Dec. 20) Kiwanis Tournament encounter at Mission Bay.

The Sultans fell behind the Eagles 10-2 in the first quarter and 25-8 by halftime.

Freshman MORGAN TURNER led the Sultans with 12 points, giving her 39 in her last two games.

EMILY KLOSS chipped in with 11 points.

Santana: Morgan Turner 12, Emily Kloss 11, Savannah Garcia 8, Savanah Fenn 2, Dominique Morrison 2.

© East County Sports.com
CORONADO (12-19-13) — A 23-9 scoring burst by Granite HillsHigh helped propel the Eagles to an easy 61-35 victory over Sweetwater in Thursday’s (Dec. 19) Coronado Holiday Invitational.

Granite Hills overpowered Sweetwater in all four quarters as DEJANAE HARVEY and MICAYELA HERNANDEZ each scored 18 points.

One of the strong points for the Eagles was their free throw shooting as they made 14 of 18.

“Our depth got to them,” said Eagles coach JERRY PARKER. “We were able to wear them down. We are deeper than they are. We were ahead the whole game.”

Granite Hills: Deajanae Harvey 18, Micayela Hernandez 18, Raelleah Moore 11, Madison Lumb 4, Justine Garde 4, Anabel Rodriguez 2, Sierra Rains 2, Haleigh Tharp 2.

MOUNT MIGUEL 102, MONTGOMERY 39 – Mount Miguel came out blazing in Thursday’s (Dec. 19) Kiwanis Tournament against Montgomery at Scripps Ranch.

It was 70-29 at halftime.

Five Matadors reached double scoring digits, led by ZARIA BRANCH, who netted 34 points. She had 13 field goals, including a pair of treys.

“She’s the best all around point guard I’ve ever had,” said Mount Miguel coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. “She is humble and what makes her really good is she can do a little bit of everything.

And that’s saying something, since he’s had a handful of scholarship guards in the past.

DEIJAH BLANKS added 17 points, DEJANAY POPE pitched in 15, TAYLOR YOUNG had 12, and SATERA BATES contributed 10.

“We did something brand new on offense,” said Sandoval. “I guess the main thing is we were making layups.”

Mount Miguel: Zaria Branch 34 (6 reb, 4 ast, 4 stl, 1 blk), Deijah Blanks 17 (6 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Dejanay Pope 15 (4 reb, 1 ast, 6 stl), Taylor Young 12 (2 reb, 2 ast), Satera Bates 10 (5 reb, 2 stl), Kamree Harrison 6 (2 ast, 1 blk, 3 stl), Rozlyn Pierce 6 (4 reb, 1 stl), Brooklyn Miller 4 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

SANTANA 64, MISSION BAY 15 – Freshman MORGAN TURNER had a career high of 27 points to guide Santana to Thursday’s (Dec. 19) Kiwanis Tournament victory at Mission Bay.

Turner hit 7 three-pointers in the rout.

However, it was not a solo effort, as TAYLOR ESTES nailed 16 points, including a pair of treys.

“We did a good job of sharing the ball,” said Sultans coach LARRY CLARK. “Turner could feel it and it was obvious.

The contest was decided in the second quarter when Santana gained a 21-0 advantage.

Santana: Morgan Turner 27, Taylor Estes 16, Emily Kloss 7, Dominique Morrison 6, Savannah Garcia 4, Savanah Fenn 2, Kylie Brase 2.

Castle Park at Valhalla PHOTOS HERE (Photos by Don DeMars Photography)

The second half was different story however, as the Norsemen scored only 10 points.

“It all came down to experience,” said Valhalla coach LOWE LEASEAU. “We had two girls foul out so we had no experience on the floor at the finish.”

TIANA SILVER nailed 3 triples, finishing with 14 points to lead the Norsemen, while SHYLA CRIGER-PHILIPP chipped in with 12 points and 10 rebounds.

Valhalla: Tiana Silver 14, Shyla Criger-Philipp 12 (10 reb), Bianca Gorges 3, Janel Kalasho 3, Molly Lindsay 1, Julianna Qsar 1.

EC-SOUTHWEST 55, GROSSMONT 19 – No report for this Kiwanis Tournament game captured by the El Centro based Eagles.

© East County Sports.com
SCRIPPS RANCH (12-19-13) — Mount Miguel High registered a season-high 90 points in Wednesday’s (Dec. 18) Kiwanis Tournament 90-21 blowout of Morse at Scripps Ranch.

ZARIA BRANCH scored 31 points to pace the Matadors (6-1), while DEIJAH BLANKS fired in 19 points to go along with 9 rebounds.

KAMREE HARRISON landed a pair of treys and was 3-for-3 from the free throw line for 16 points to go along with 5 assists and 8 steals.

DEJANAY POPE led the Matadors’ board brigade with 12 rebounds.

Mount Miguel turned the game into a blowout with a 35-5 run in the third quarter.

Mount Miguel: Zaria Branch 31 (1 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Deijah Blanks 19 (9 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Kamree Harrison 16 (2 reb, 5 ast, 1 blk, 8 stl), Brooklyn Miller 8 (1 reb, 1 blk, 3 stl), Dejanay Pope 7 (12 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk, 4 stl), Rozlyn Pierce 6 (3 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Satera Bates 4 (1 reb, 2 stl).

WESTVIEW 59, STEELE CANYON 27 – Steele Canyon found out why Westview is one of the top teams in the San Diego CIF in Wednesday’s (Dec. 18) non-league encounter in Rancho San Diego.

The Cougars fell behind the Wolverines 29-12 by halftime and never recovered.

“The box score didn’t really show what was going on,” said Steele Canyon coach PETER RUIZ. “We were able to get them frustrated but we weren’t able to get a fast break off our steals.

“Defensively we played really aggressively. We’re slowly getting better.”

Steele Canyon: Jule Loibl 8 (2 stl), Ashley Tavizon 8 (1 ast, 2 stl), Arlynda Fillmore 4 (2 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Isabella Welch 3 (2 reb, 2 stl), Victoria Ethridge 2 (1 reb), Sydney Williams 2 (2 reb, 1 stl), Victoria Bott (1 ast), Nicki DePaola (1 reb), Mikayla Meredith (1 reb), Dai’re Watkins (1 reb).

CARLSBAD 60, SANTANA 32 – The Sultans fell behind Carlsbad 15-2 in the first quarter of Wednesday’s (Dec. 18) opening round of the Kiwanis Tournament at Mission Bay.

“We worked hard,” said Santana coach LARRY CLARK. “ Carlsbad was well coached and played very good. They outplayed us on both ends of the court.”

Santana: Savannah Garcia 8, Dominique Morrison 8, Morgan Turner 7, Emily Kloss 4, Savanah Fenn 2, Kylie Brase 2, Taylor Estes 1. (No other stats reported.)

SERRA 73, GROSSMONT 12 – No report was provided for this Kiwanis Tournament game.

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (12-18-13) — West Hills High snapped a mild, 3-game losing streak as they rolled over Ramona, 63-38, in a non-league game Tuesday (Dec. 17) in North County.

“The girls played well and very hard,” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “We got off to a great start offensively.”

Freshman guard VIVIAN PANELA paced the Pack with four 3's in the first quarter, finishing with 19 points.

“Upper classman BRANDI McCRYSTAL and BAILEY ALBERS both played very well,” said Kinser.

West Hills took a 34-16 lead in the first half and never looked back.

“I was very happy with the girls’ effort,” we played as a team tonight,” said Kinser.

West Hills: Vivian Panella 19 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Bailey Albers 13 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Brandi McCrystal 9 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Megan Scott 7 (5 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Jessica Fondas 6, Carly Raley 3 (4 reb), Ali Lenhoff 2 (3 reb, 1 stl), Tiffany Nugyen 2 (5 reb, 1 stl), Clarissa Stamper 2 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Tila Whitaker (2 reb, 1 stl).

LIBERTY CHARTER 36, EL CAJON VALLEY 34 – The host Braves came within a shuffle of knocking off Liberty Charter in a loss to the Lions in Tuesday (Dec. 17 non-league game.

“We had a last second shot and the ref called a travel,” lamented Braves coach MARC BOYKINS. “I was so bummed out. It was tight the whole time.”

JOANNA DELA CRUZ rolled a double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds, and TONI ENGLAND also pulled off a double-double of 11 points and 14 rebounds for the winless Braves.

Although she didn’t score any points, MARY GRACE RONQUILLO had 7 assists and 6 steals for El Cajon Valley.

“We had a lot of people there tonight – the gym was packed,” said Boykins. “Even the alumni showed up. It was excellent to hear the crowd and know they were on our side. We’re really working on bring back the pride to El Cajon Valley.”

El Cajon Valley: Joanna Dela Cruz 14 (11 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Toni England 11 (14 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl), Ninwey Esho 6 (4 reb, 3 stl), Nashea Lampkin 2 (5 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Sumaya Hameed 1 (6 reb, 2 stl), Mary Grace Ronquillo (7 ast, 6 stl), Fareh Kannah (2 ast).

Senior forward Savannah Whitehurst paced the Lemon Grove based Lions (4-1) with 16 points.

CALEXICO 39, HELIX 38 – The Highlanders missed a potential game-winning shot in the final five seconds of Tuesday’s (Dec. 17) Monte Vista Classic against visiting Calexico.

“If we could have hit that shot we could have gotten away with one,” said Helix coach PATRICK TABOR. “We got behind and the girls couldn’t pick themselves up.”

(No scoring or stats provided by Helix.)

© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (12-15-13) — Third-year Helix High head coach PATRICK TABOR experienced his happiest moment as a basketball coach in Saturday’s (Dec. 14) doubleheader sweep to the championship of the Monte Vista Invitational.

After knocking off Eastlake 46-33 in the semifinals, the Highlanders were even more impressive in the finals as they pounded Patrick Henry 62-33.

RAESHONDRA DIKE’ rolled a double-double in the semifinal of 13 points and 10 rebounds.

Just a few hours later the Highlanders came out of the chute and outscored the Patriots of Patrick Henry 20-4 in the championship game, and led 39-15 at halftime.

Basically it was no contest as Helix improved to 4-1.

“My 6-foot freshman DANIELLE SIMMONS rolled a double-double of 11 points and 14 rebounds against Henry,” Tabor said. “She’s going to be something special.”

SHIRAH HANCOCK led the way with 16 points, while TALIAH HOOKER had 12 points – all of them from 3-point range. CAMRYN OWENS contributed 10 assists for the second time in three games.

“This was my first high school championship,” Tabor continued. “This was kind of a little milestone for me. I started coaching at Skyline Rec Center 17 years ago, coaching youth basketball – in fact, I’m still there. But now I’m in my third year of high school coaching and I’ve won my first tournament.”

“I’m proud to say that our junior varsity team also won the championship in their division of the Monte Vista Invitational too,” Tabor added.

Helix vs. Eastlake: Raeshondra Dike’ 13 (10 reb, 1 ast), Shirah Hancock 8 (1 reb, 2 ast), Taliah Hooker 8 (2 reb, 1 stl), Danielle Simmons 8 (7 reb, 1 blk, 2 stl), Camryn Owens 5 (2 ast, 2 stl), Chyna Williams 2 (5 reb), Asia Duncan 2 (1 stl).

Helix vs. Patrick Henry: Shirah Hancock 16 (4 reb, 2 stl), Taliah Hooker 12 (3 ast), Danielle Simmons 11 (14 reb), Camryn Owens 7 (2 reb, 10 ast, 3 stl), Raeshondra Dike’ 6 (6 reb, 1 stl), Kyla Napier 4 (1 reb, 1 stl), Chyna Williams 3 (7 reb), Asia Duncan 3 (2 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl).

GROSSMONT 64, SAN YSIDRO 56 – The visiting Foothillers got two clutch 3-pointers from MARTINA TOMA and 23 points from BRIA MILLER to knock off San Ysidro in Saturday’s (Dec. 14) non-league game.

LAUREN WEIGLE rolled a double-double of 12 points and 10 rebounds for the Foothillers (1-1).

KEANA LOVELACE pitched in with 11 points and 4 assists. SYDNEY SCHWARTZ also collected 10 rebounds for the Foothillers.

Miller scored 9 points in the fourth quarter to help the Foothillers put the game away.

Grossmont: Bria Miller 23 (6 reb), Lauren Weigle 12 (10 reb), Keana Lovelace 11 (4 ast), Martina Toma 7 (4 stl), Theresa Mapp 4 (4 reb, 1 stl), Sydney Schwartz 4 (10 reb).

SWEETWATER 35, EL CAPITAN 32 – After falling behind 17-4 in the first quarter the El Capitan gradually fought back but came up short in Saturday’s (Dec. 14) San Diego County Classic.

“If we hadn’t started out so poorly we could have beaten them,” said Vaqueros co-head coach RICK WILKERSON. “We beat them every other quarter.”

El Capitan: Kassidy Kygar 9 (3 reb, 9 stl), Cierra Cutler 8 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Mariel Vega 5 (4 reb, 2 stl), MacKenzie Mead 4 (12 reb), Adalida Moore 4 (3 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Valeria Garay 2 (1 reb).

POWAY 47, WEST HILLS 28 – It hasn’t been very often that West Hills has had a losing record five games into the season. But the Wolf Pack suffered its fourth loss in five starts at the hands of the Titans of Poway in Saturday’s (Dec. 14)

North County Classic.

The Titans led 36-17 at halftime before the Wolf Pack (1-4) finally gained its defensive ground.

Nobody scored in double digits for the Pack.

“It was a tale of two halves defensively,” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “We let them score 36 in the first half and only 8 in the second. We couldn't score enough points in the second to capitalize on our defensive effort.”

“Overall our effort in the second half was great.” Kinser said. “We will take that away and build on it.”

West Hills: Vivian Panela 9 (5 reb, 1 stl), Bailey Albers 5 (6 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Brandi McCrystal 4 (7 reb), Jessica Fondas 3 (1 reb, 1 blk), Megan Scott 2 (7 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Carly Raley 2 (1 reb, 2 blk), Tiffany Nugyen 2 (1 reb), Tila Whitaker 1 (1 stl), Clarrisa Stamper (3 reb, 1 ast), Ali Lenhoff (1 stl, 1 blk).

THE BISHOP’S 71, MOUNT MIGUEL 41 – The No. 3 ranked Mount Miguel Matadors found out why The Bishop’s Knights are ranked the No. 1 team in the San Diego Section in Saturday’s (Dec. 14) championship game of the Black Division of the Matador Classic in Spring Valley.

The Knights (4-0) took an 18-8 first quarter lead and continued to pile it on the rest of the way.

Six-foot-3 senior Imani Littleton was the anchor of the Knights’ victory as she scored 32 points, grabbed 16 rebounds and blocked 6 shots. She hit 15 of 24 shots and 2 of 4 free throws.

For Mount Miguel (4-1), which was playing a game of chase all night, the smaller Matadors were led by DEIJAH BLANKS with 15 points and 13 rebounds.

ZARIA BRANCH added 11 points and DEJANAY POPE collected 8 rebounds.

“That’s the best team in the county,” Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL said of the Knights. “Just about everything they do proves that.”

Mount Miguel: Deijah Blanks 15 (13 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Zaria Branch 11 (5 reb, 4 ast), Satera Bates 5 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Kamree Harrison 5 (3 reb, 1 ast), Dejanay Pope 4 (8 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Brooklyn Miller 1 (1 stl).

MORSE 52, STEELE CANYON 29 – The Cougars shot 19 percent from the field and made only 3 of 7 free throws on Saturday (Dec. 14), which left them on the short end against Morse in the San Diego County Classic.

“We’re all a brand new program, we’re all getting our stripes – from the coaches to the players,” said first year Steele Canyon head coach PETER RUIZ.

At halftime, the Cougars trailed only 18-16.

“In this particular game we got killed by second half turnovers,” Ruiz noted.

ISABELLA WELCH grabbed 13 rebounds in the losing cause.

Nobody scored in double figures.

Steele Canyon: Jule Loibl 8, Isabella Welch 4 (13 reb), Ashley Tavizon 4 (5 reb), Victoria Bott 2 (6 reb), Dai’re Watkins 2, Sydney Williams (6 reb). Scoring incomplete.

CHRISTIAN 64, SANTANA 38 – Christian defeated Santana in Saturday’s (Dec. 14) final day of the Monte Vista Invitational.

Santana: Savanah Fenn 8, Morgan Turner 7, Emily Kloss 6, Savannah Garcia 5, Dominique Morrison 5, Taylor Estes 3, Madison Barry 2.

(No information was reported for Christian.)

© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (12-14-13) — A bright future is in store for third-year Helix coach PATRICK TABOR and his youthful Helix Highlanders.

In its latest outing, Helix rocked Bonita Vista, holding the Barons to single scoring digits in all four periods in a 52-24 decision.

When Helix is at full strength the Highlanders roster will have six freshmen.

“I like what I see,” Tabor said.

Senior SHIRAH HANCOCK paced Helix with 13 points and 10 rebounds.

The freshmen left their mark on the Barons as well. TALIA HOOKER had 12 points – half of them coming on 3-pointers. DANIELLE SIMMONS rolled a double-double of 11 points and 11 rebounds, while guard CAMRYN OWENS dished 10 assists.

And that was just the half of it.

Freshman CHYNA WILLIAMS scored 4 points and 6 rebounds and ASIA DUNCAN had 5 points and 2 rebounds.

Leading scorer DESTINI ANDERSON is still injured (ankle) but it due back within the week.

Helix: Shirah Hancock 13 (10 reb, 2 stl), Taliah Hooker 12 (2 ast), Danielle Simmons 11 (11 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl, 2 blk), Camryn Owens 5 (10 ast, 2 stl), Asia Duncan 5 (2 reb, 5 ast), Raeshondra Dike’ (7 reb, 2 stl), Chyna Williams 4 (6 reb), Ashley Smith (1 reb), Kyla Napier (1 reb).

OUR LADY OF PEACE 50, GRANITE HILLS 45 (OT) – Despite a breakdown in the second quarter of Friday’s (Dec. 13 Matador Classic, when the visiting Eagles were outscored by the Pilots 18-2, Granite Hills rallied to force the game into overtime.

Foul trouble plagued the Eagles in that second period.

“Nae got in foul trouble. We just have to do a better job when somebody comes out or is in foul trouble,” said Eagles coach JERRY PARKER.

“With 2-3 seconds left Mica had a 3 to send it into overtime,”Parker said. “We,ve just got to take a better job of taking care of the basketball and rebound more. We have up too many offensive rebounds.”

OLP claimed a 10-5 scoring advantage in the extra stanza.

Granite Hills: Denajae Harvey 15, Micayela Hernandez 11, Anabel Rodriguez 7, Emma Kubari 4, Raelleah Moore 3, Sierra Rains 3, Madison Lumb 2.

© East County Sports.com
LAKESIDE (12-13-13) — Host El Capitan High did its best job of focusing on the free throw line in the fourth quarter of Thursday’s (Dec. 12) San Diego County Classic.

The Vaqueros, who were 4 of 21 in the first three periods, made 7 of 13 over the final 8 minutes to squeeze out a 41-37 win over Valley Center.

CIERRA CUTLER led the Vaqueros with 15 points, while KASSIDY KYGAR contributed 11 as El Cap balanced its season record at 3-3.

“Both teams basically struggled,” noted El Capitan co-head coach RICK WILKERSON. “We played hard is the reason we won.”

“( Valley Center ) tied the game and actually went ahead in the fourth quarter,” Wilkerson said. “I have to give the girls credit. They came through at the end and made their free throws when they had to.”

El Capitan: Cierra Cutler 15 (3 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Kassidy Kygar 11 (5 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Valeria Garay 8 (7 reb, 2 stl), MacKenzie Mead 5 (4 reb, 2 stl), Adalida Moore 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Mariel Vega (1 reb, 1 stl).

CALVIN CHRISTIAN 33, SANTANA 31 – EMILY KLOSS narrowly missed a 3-point shot attempt in the final seconds as the Sultans fell to visiting Calvin Christian in Thursday’s (Dec. 12) Monte Vista Invitational contest.

“You know, we played hard. It certainly was a winnable game but we missed too many lay-ups,” said Sultans coach LARRY CLARK.

SAVANNAH GARCIA led Santana on the boards with 11 rebounds, while KYLIE BRASE bagged 10 boards.

Santana: Kylie Brase 9 (10 reb), Savannah Garcia 5 (11 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Morgan Turner 5 (2 reb, 3 stl), Dominique Morrison 4 (4 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Taylor Estes 4 (2 reb, 1 blk, 3 stl), Savanah Fenn 2 (7 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Emily Kloss 2 (2 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl).

MOUNT MIGUEL 65, SAN DIEGO 11 – In days gone by this used to be a heated rivalry. No longer.

Host Mount Miguel took a 25-2 first quarter lead and shut out the Cavers in the fourth quarter, turning the game into a rout in Thursday’s (Dec. 12) Matador Classic.

“We used a full court man in the first quarter and then basically backed off after that,” said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. “Overall we took it easy on them. This was basically a tune-up for Saturday’s (Dec. 14) game (the Black Division championship against The Bishop’s in a battle of undefeated teams at 7 p.m.)

ZARIA BRANCH led Mount Miguel with 21 points, KAMREE HARRISON chipped in with 14, while DEJANAY POPE rolled a double-double of 11 points and 11 rebounds. DEIJAH BLANKS grabbed 10 rebounds.

Mount Miguel: Zaria Branch 21 (1 reb, 5 stl, 4 blk), Kamree Harrison 14 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Dejanay Pope 11 (11 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Deijah Blanks 9 (10 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl), Brooklyn Miller 4 (1 reb, 1 ast), Taylor Young 3 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Rozlyn Pierce 2 (6 reb, 1 blk), Satera Bates 2 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl).

LA COSTA CANYON 63, WEST HILLS 29 – La Costa Canyon breezed past the Wolf Pack on Thursday (Dec. 12) in the North County Classic game.

The Mavericks took a 13-5 first quarter lead and opened it up to 46-19 by the close of the third quarter.

“We played a good first half defensively, but once again just couldn’t score,” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “The wheels fell off in the second half. We played very poor defense and had way too many turnovers.”

West Hills: Vivian Panela 8 (6 reb), Megan Scott 5, Tila Whitaker 4, Brandi McCrystal 4 (8 reb), Bailey Albers 3, Ali Lenhoff 2.

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (12-12-13) — After a sluggish start, where the host Santana Sultans fell behind 15-5, senior SAVANNAH GARCIA buried 14 points and EMILY KLOSS added 10 as the Sultans came from behind in the second half to trip the Trojans of Castle Park, 42-35, in Wednesday’s (Dec. 11) Monte Vista Invitational contest.

“We came to life late in the second quarter,” said Sultans coach LARRY CLARK. “We were able to gain our composure and work through adversity.”

Clark also praised the defensive work of KYLIE BRASE on the boards.

“She did an amazing job of taking charge of the middle in the second half,” he said.

Santana: Savannah Garcia 14, Emily Kloss 10, Taylor Estes 8, Kylie Brase 7,

Morgan Turner 1, Savanah Fenn 1, Dominique Morrison 1.

RANCHO BUENA VISTA 55, HELIX 49 (OT) – The visiting Helix Highlanders narrowly missed an upset of Rancho Buena Vista in Wednesday’s (Dec. 11) Monte Vista Invitational in North County.

SHIRAH HANCOCK had a career-high 25 points and CAMRYN OWENS pitched in with 10 points and 8 rebounds for the Highlanders (2-1).

Leading scorer DESTINI ANDERSON was able to pull down just one rebound before she sprained her ankle on the third play of the game and had to leave the court.

The score was tied at 45-all at the end of regulation. The Highlanders were able to score just 4 points in overtime as RAESHONDRA DIKE’ hit a basket and ASIA DUNCAN and CAMRYN OWENS each hit a free throw as Helix finished 6 points back.

“With 30 seconds left we were up by 4 and we lose the game,” said Helix coach PATRICK TABOR.

“We didn’t finish tonight,” he added. “We have to finish games. It all about being young.

“This hurts – when it hurts, that means you’re growing up, you’re becoming a basketball player.”

Helix: Shirah Hancock 25 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Camryn Owens 10 (8 ast), Chyna Williams 5 (5 reb), Raeshondra Dike’ 4 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Danielle Simmons 2 (17 reb), Ashley Smith 2, Asia Duncan 1 (1 ast), Destini Anderson (1 reb), Taliah Hooker (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

EASTLAKE 77, EL CAJON VALLEY 45 – JOANNA DELA CRUZ had a career-high 29 points for El Cajon Valley, rolling a double-double with 12 rebounds, but the Braves couldn’t keep pace with Eastlake in Wednesday’s (Dec. 11) Monte Vista Invitational.

Dela Cruz hit 4 three-pointers and 13 of 23 free throws.

TONI ENGLAND poured in 11 points, and SUMAYA HAMEED led the Braves on the boards with 13 rebounds to go with her 4 points.

“Our only freshman, Sumaya Hameed is starting to track the ball and starting to rebound,” noted El Cajon Valley coach MARC BOYKINS. “For a freshman to get 13 rebounds is amazing. By midseason she may be getting double-doubles in scoring and rebounds.”

“We had a 9-2 lead then they early, then they threw all their starters in,” Boykins said. “If we play against teams of our caliber, in Division 4, we’ll come out on top. We’re going to surprise a few people. Our girls are working hard, diving for balls.

“We got a lot of compliments from Bonita Vista parent last night about how the girls were hustling.”

El Cajon Valley: Joanna Dela Cruz 29 (12 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Toni England 11 (4 reb, 3 stl), Sumaya Hameed 4 (13 reb, 4 stl), Fareh Kannah 1 (1 reb), Mary Grace Ronquillo (3 reb, 4 ast), Ninwey Esho (4 reb, 1 ast), Nashea Lampkin (2 reb).

VISTA 55, EL CAPITAN 25 – The Panthers pounced on the visiting Vaqueros 30-12 in the first half of Wednesday’s (Dec. 11) San Diego County Classic encounter in North County.

Nobody reached double digits for the Vaqueros, who shot 9-for-31 (29 percent) from the field and 5-for-10 from the free throw line.

Vista dropped in 12 three-pointers to turn the game into a major mismatch.

El Capitan: Cierra Cutler 8 (4 reb, 2 stl), Valeria Garay 8 (8 reb), Kassidy Kygar 4 (2 ast, 2 stl), Adalida Moore 3, MacKenzie Mead (4 reb), Elizabeth Ramos 2 (3 reb), Mariel Vega (4 reb).

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (12-11-13) — The undefeated, No. 3 ranked Mount Miguel Matadors slashed Serra, 77-70, in Tuesday’s (Dec. 10) Matador Classic action.

Mount Miguel will host San Diego on Thursday (Dec. 12) at 7:30 and then face No. 1 ranked Bishop’s Saturday (Dec. 14) at 7 p.m. in the Black Division championship game of the Matador Classic in Spring Valley.

Power forward DEJANAY POPE popped in 18 points and grabbed 15 rebounds while recording 5 steals to lead the Matadors past the Conquistadors.

DEIJAH BLANKS added 17 points, 7 assist and 5 steals, while KAMREE HARRISON drilled in 16 points, BROOKLYN MILLER tapped in 14 points and ZARIA BRANCH pitched in 12 in a classic balanced attack.

“I think we were kind of surprised at how good Serra was,” said Mount Miguel coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL, who saw his team rally in the second half to pull out the win. “We needed help from everybody and we got it.”

Mount Miguel: Dejanay Pope 18 (15 reb, 1 blk, 5 stl), Deijah Blanks 17 (4 reb, 7 ast, 5 stl, 1 blk), Kamree Harrison 16 (2 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl), Brooklyn Miller 14 (1 reb, 1 stl), Zaria Branch 12 (2 reb, 1 blk, 4 stl), Satera Bates (3 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl).

SANTANA 65, FRANCIS PARKER 28 – The Santana Sultans dribbled to their first win of the season by pounding Francis Parker in Tuesday’s (Dec. 10) round of the Monte Vista Invitational.

EMILY KLOSS led the scoring parade for Santana with 20 points, while TAYLOR ESTES has 12 and MORGAN TURNER popped in 11. Turner hit 3 triples and Estes hit a pair.

The Sultans (1-2) outscored the Lancers across the board, including 47-18 through the first three quarters.

“We did a good job of attacking the basket,” said Sultans coach LARRY CLARK. “I was pleased with our defensive effort, and we did a good on assists and screens.

“This was our best game so far.”

Santana: Emily Kloss 20, Taylor Estes 12, Morgan Turner 11, Savannah Garcia 7, Savanah Fenn 5, Kylie Brase 4, Dominique Morrison 4, Madison Barry 2.

SAN PASQUAL 60, WEST HILLS 33 – The Wolf Pack was no match for San Pasqual in Tuesday’s (Dec. 10) North County Classic encounter against the Golden Eagles.

San Pasqual took a 17-5 first quarter lead over West Hills and after that it became a chase for the Pack.

KATIE BYRD and BAILEY ALBERS led West Hills with 11 and 10 points, respectively.

Byrd grabbed 7 rebounds as did MEGAN SCOTT.

“We came out very flat once again on offense, had a lot of great looks in the first half but couldn't make anything,” said Wolf Pack coach RYAN KINSER.

“San Pasqual has two real good players and we did some good things to stop them until the ball was shot, then we gave up a ton of offensive rebounds and didn't get loose balls.”

“It was a tough game, we have a long way to go,” noted Kinser.

West Hills: Katie Byrd 11 (7 reb), Bailey Albers 10 (3 reb, 1 stl), Vivian Panella 4 (5 reb, 1 stl), Jessica Fondas 3 (1 reb), Megan Scott 2 (7 reb, 1 st, 2 stl), Carly Raley 2 (3 reb), Tila Whitaker 1 (1 ast, 1 stl), Brandi McCrystal (4 reb).

BONITA VISTA 55, EL CAJON VALLEY 43 – The visiting Braves (0-3) fell behind 18-5 in the first quarter of Tuesday’s (Dec. 10) Monte Vista Invitational contest at Bonita Vista.

Even in defeat the Braves had some high points.

“We only had 10 turnovers for the whole game,” said Braves coach MARC BOYKINS.

JOANNA DELA CRUZ rolled a double-double of 19 points and 11 rebounds. Included in her totals were 5 three-pointers.

TONI ENGLAND added 11 points and 3 steals, while SUMAYA HAMEED grabbed 7 boards.

“Bonita Vista is better than Mira Mesa and Montgomery,” said Boykins. “They have better big girls. At one point we were down by 5 points. The girls didn’t quit. They came out kinda rushing things but they settled down.”

El Cajon Valley: Joanna Dela Cruz 19 (11 reb, 2 stl), Toni England 11 (1 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Mary Grace Ronquillo 8 (2 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Sumaya Hameed 3 (7 reb, 1 stl), Ninwey Esho 2 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Nashea Lambkin (1 reb, 1 stl).

RANCHO BERNARDO 74, EL CAPITAN 35 – Host Rancho Bernardo outscored the Vaqueros 33-3 in the fourth quarter to turn the game into a rout in Tuesday’s (Dec. 10) San Diego County Classic in North County.

The high point for El Capitan, which trailed only 42-32 at halftime, was the shooting of CIERRA CUTLER, who buried 16 points.

KASSIDY KYGAR added 8 points and 3 steals for the Vaqueros, while VALERIA GARAY tossed in 6 points and grabbed 7 boards.

El Capitan: Cierra Cutler 16 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Kassidy Kygar 8 (3 stl), Valeria Garay 6 (7 reb), Mariel Vega 4 (6 reb), MacKenzie Mead 1.

© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (12-10-13) — For the first time in recent memory, the Helix Highlanders have posted back-to-back victories to open the season.

In their latest outing they knocked off La Jolla 52-33 as DESTINI ANDERSON scored 14 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in Monday’s (Dec. 9) Monte Vista Invitational.

SHIRAH HANCOCK buried a trio of 3-pointers and finished with 13 points, while CAMRYN OWENS contributed 10 points and 5 assists as Helix improved to 2-0.

Helix overcame a 12-6 first quarter deficit and turned the game into a blowout with a 21-4 spread in the fourth quarter.

“As a coach you’re always striving to be better,” said Helix coach PATRICK TABOR. “In the first half we didn’t do too hot. When we start slow and don’t pick it up in the third quarter, we would have lost these games last year.”

Helix: Destini Anderson 14 (6 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Shirah Hancock 13 (4 reb, 2 ast), Camryn Owens 10 (5 ast, 3 stl), Raeshondra Dike’ 6 (4 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Taliah Hooker 5 (2 reb, 1 ast), Chyna Williams 2 (1 reb), Danielle Simmons 2 (4 reb).

GRANITE HILLS 61, SAN DIEGO 35 – MICAYELA HERNANDEZ drilled in 24 points as visiting Granite Hills knocked off San Diego in Monday’s (Dec. 9) Matador Classic encounter.

Half of Hernandez’ points came on 3-point buckets.

“We’ve always known she’s a good shooter,” said Eagles coach JERRY PARKER. “And she’s getting better on the defensive end.”

The Eagles (2-2) led 21-3 after the first quarter and never looked back.

“Defensively I’m happy with the girls because they competed the whole game,” Parker added.

Granite Hills: Micayela Hernandez 24, Raelleah Moore 11, Deajanae Harvey 10, Madison Lumb 9, Sierra Rains 6, Anabel Rodriguez 2, Amanda Dye 2.

MIRA MESA 61, EL CAJON VALLEY 38 – After falling behind 28-24 at halftime, the Braves fell out of step against against Mira Mesa in Monday’s (Dec. 9) Monte Vista Invitational.

Even though El Cajon Valley came up short the Braves proved they could nail the 3-pointer as JOANNA DELA CRUZ knocked down 3 and TONI ENGLAND nailed 3 out of 4 attempts.

“We were up by 7 at one point,” recalled El Cajon Valley coach MARC BOYKINS. We are short-handed now. We have eight players on the team. We didn’t get in foul trouble, we just ran out of gas. When you don’t have subs it makes it difficult.

“When we get in better shape we’ll be alright. I think we’ll be fine in league. The girls are staying positive and have good attitudes.”

El Cajon Valley: Joanna Dela Cruz 14 (5 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Toni England 13 (5 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Ninwey Esho 5 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Mary Grace Ronquillo 3 (4 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Sumaya Hameed 3 (5 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl).

MONTE VISTA 41, CHRISTIAN 36 – No report on this Monte Vista Invitational game.

© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (12-8-13) — Helix High posted their first victory of the season by knocking off the Castle Park Trojans, 61-21, in the Monte Vista Invitational.

The Highlanders jumped out to a big lead and held the advantage 44-14 by halftime.

DESTINI ANDERSON paced Helix with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists, while SHIRAH HANCOCK tossed in 17 points and grabbed 8 boards.

DANIELLE SIMMONS scored 12 points for the Highlanders.

“My girls played with a lot of energy and really listened to me tonight,” said Helix coach PATRICK TABOR. “They are very coachable. They need to work on the mental toughness part of the game. When they are coachable, good things happen.

“It was a good first win – but there’s a long way to go.”

Helix: Destini Anderson 19 (7 reb, 5 ast), Shirah Hancock 17 (8 reb), Danielle Simmons 12 (4 reb, 1 blk), Asia Duncan 4 (2 ast), Camryn Owens 4 (5 ast), Chyna Williams 3 (4 reb), Kyla Napier 2, Raeshondra Dike’ (4 reb).

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (12-7-13) — The El Capitan Vaqueros used a 19-11 run in the fourth quarter to knock off the Grossmont Foothillers, 43-40, in Friday’s (Dec. 6) San Diego County Classic contest.

KASSIDY KYGAR led the Vaqueros with 15 points, including 9 of 15 free throws, while CIERRA CUTLER added 14 points.

VALERIA GARAY had 9 points and 13 rebounds while Kygar logged 8 steals.

“We had some of our starters on the bench in foul trouble,” noted co-coach RICK WILKERSON.

KEANA LOVELACE led Grossmont with 13 points, including a pair of treys.

El Capitan: Kassidy Kygar 15 (4 reb, 2 ast, 8 stl), Cierra Cutler 14 (6 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Valeria Garay 9 (13 reb, 3 stl), Mariel Vega 4 (5 reb, 1 stl), Adalida Moore 1 (1 reb), MacKenzie Mead (4 reb, 3 ast), Torrey Capoocia (1 reb).

Grossmont: Keana Lovelace 13, Theresa Mapp 8, Bria Miller 6, Carly Lopez 5, Martina Toma 4, Sydney Schwartz 2, Lauren Weigel 2.

MOUNT MIGUEL 78, GRANITE HILLS 44 – In days gone past this used to be a showdown between East County powers.

But when the Matadors hosted the Eagles it was no contest as Mount Miguel rolled to a 78-44 victory in Friday’s (Dec. 6) Matador Classic.

The game was basically over in the 1st quarter as the Matadors took a 27-7 lead and inflated the advantage to 48-19 by halftime.

DEIJAH BLANKS led the Matadors’ charge with 31 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists and 4 steals.

DEJANAY POPE added 17 points and 18 rebounds, while ZARIA BRANCH chipped in with 10 points.

“They couldn’t really keep up with our pressure,” noted Mount Miguel coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL.

DEAJANAE HARVEY led the Eagles with 15 points.

Mount Miguel: Deijah Blanks 31 (10 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Dejanay Pope 17 (18 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Zaria Branch 10 (1 reb, 4 stl), Brooklyn Miller 9 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Satera Bates 9 (3 reb, 3 stl), Taylor Young (1 reb, 4 ast), Cierra Conwright (1 reb, 1 blk).

Granite Hills: Micayela Hernandez 9, Deajanae Harvey 15, Raelleah Leceur 7, Haleigh Tharp 2, Emma Kubari 6, Annabel R. 2, Madison Lumb 1, Chase R. 2.

RAMONA 66, STEELE CANYON 23 – The Cougars fell behind 20-2 and 38-9 by halftime in Friday’s (Dec. 6) San Diego County Classic action in North County.

“We were getting shots, just not knocking them down,” said first-year Steele Canyon coach PETER RUIZ.

The Cougars were 3-for-29 shooting in the first half.

Steele Canyon: Isabella Welch 8, Ashley Tavizon 6, Arlynda Fillmore 5, Shelby Johnson 2, Ashley Preston 2.

EASTLAKE 47, CHRISTIAN 18 – Eastlake buried Christian in Friday’s (Dec. 6)
Monte Vista Invitational action.

The only high point for the Patriots was the 11 points scored by CHAYAN LOWERY.

(No further information reported.

© East County Sports.com
VALLEY CENTER (12-6-13) — BAILEY ALBERS and BRANDI McCRYSTAL scored 11 points apiece to help West Hills knock off Valley Center 51-33 in Thursday’s (Dec. 5) North County Classic second round.

The Wolf Pack took a 27-8 first half lead and then held on for the victory to balance their record at 1-1.

“We came out with a lot more energy and effort than we did on Tuesday (in a loss to Fallbrook),” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “We forced a lot of turnovers and got some easy baskets. Defense was very good in the first half, only allowing 8 points.”

“I thought the game was won in the third and played very poor, gave up 20 points,” Kinser added. “We re-grouped in the 4th and put them away.

“Overall it was a solid performance and something to build on.”

West Hills: Bailey Albers 11 (8 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Brandi McCrystal 11 (5 reb, 3 stl, 1 blk), Vivian Panella 7 (2 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl), Katie Byrd 8 (2 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Jessica Fondas 6 (1 ast, 1 stl), Megan Scott 4 (4 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl), Carly Raley 2 (7 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Tila Whitaker 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Clarrisa Stamper (2 stl).

POWAY 77, STEELE CANYON 24 – Perennial power Poway made mincemeat of host Steele Canyon, taking a 34-10 halftime lead in Thursday’s (Dec. 5) San Diego County Classic.

It only got worse after that as the Titans used a 24-4 third quarter advantage to turn the game into a blowout.

“We just keep trying to build our experience,” said Cougars coach PETER RUIZ. “We know we’re playing some of the top teams in the county and we hope that will pay off in the end.”

Steele Canyon: Arlynda Fillmore 6, Isabella Welch 5, Victoria Bott 4, Nicki DePaola 4, Dai’re Watkins 4, Ashley Tavizon 1.

CHRISTIAN AT PATRICK HENRY – No report for this Monte Vista Invitational contest.

© East County Sports.com
IMPERIAL BEACH (12-5-13) — For one of the first time in two years, the El Capitan Vaqueros showed flashes of a balanced attack as they upended Mar Vista 44-23 on Wednesday (Dec. 4) in the San Diego County Classic.

CIERRA CUTLER led the way with 19 points, VALERIA GARAY had 12 and CASSIDY KYGAR pitched in 10 as the Vaqueros (1-1) evened their record following the 44-23 triumph.

“We were a little bit worried about them (Mar Vista) because one girls had 30 points in a game last night,” said El Capitan co-coach RICK WILKERSON. “We held her to 14 tonight. Our defense was better. We didn’t turn the ball over as much and we shot better.”

El Capitan: Cierra Cutler 19, Valeria Garay 12, Cassidy Kygar 10, Mariel Vega 3.

MOUNT MIGUEL 66, OLYMPIAN 36 – DEIJAH BLANKS, despite being dogged by foul woes, poured in 27 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, dished 1 assist and made 2 steals as the Matadors mowed down the visiting Eagles in Wednesday’s (Dec. 4) Matador Classic action.

Blanks was 11-for-11 from the free throw line. She scored 14 points in the 1st quarter as Mount Miguel took an 18-3 lead.

TAYLOR YOUNG and DEJANAY POPE had 10 points apiece. Young hit three 3s and Pope grabbed 13 rebounds for the Matadors (2-0).

ZARIA BRANCH also chipped in with 10 points.

Mount Miguel: Deijah Blanks 27 (7 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Taylor Young 11 (3 reb, 1 ast, 6 stl), Dejanay Pope 10 (13 reb, 3 ast, 2 blk, 6 stl), Zaria Branch 10 (3 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 3 stl), Kamree Harrison 5 (1 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk, 7 stl), Brooklyn Miller 2 (4 reb, 1 stl), Cierra Conwright 1, Satera Bates (2 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl).

SWEETWATER 51, STEELE CANYON 28 – Once again the Steele Canyon Cougars were seeking offense as they fell to Sweetwater in Wednesday’s (Dec. 4) San Diego County Classic encounter. But they came up short.

They fell behind 16-6 in the 1st quarter and 26-11 by halftime.

ARLYNDA FILLMORE paced the Cougars with 8 points while ISABELLA WELCH added 7 and VICTORIA BOTT added 6.

Steele Canyon: Arlynda Fillmore 8, Isabella Welch 7, Victoria Bott 6, Ashley Tavizon 5, Dai’re Watkins 2.

MONTGOMERY 61, SANTANA 38 – Visiting Santana could not match up with the stronger Aztecs in Wednesday’s (Dec. 4) Monte Vista Invitational at Montgomery High.

Santana: Emily Kloss 8 (2 reb, 1 ast), Kylie Brase 7 (11 reb, 1 ast), Morgan Turner 7 (3 reb, 2 ast), Savannah Garcia 6 (2 reb, 5 blk), Taylor Estes 6 (3 reb, 2 stl), Madison Barry 2 (3 reb, 1 blk), Savanah Fenn 2 (4 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl).

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (12-4-13) — BAILEY ALBERS, probably the most experience player in the West Hills lineup, drilled in 13 points, grabbed 5 steals, dished 1 assist and grabbed 3 rebounds for the Wolf Pack in Wednesday’s (Dec. 3) North County Classic against visiting Fallbrook.

Fallbrook took a 21-12 first half lead and never looked back, defeating the Wolf Pack, 49-38.

“We came out very flat offensively and gave up some easy baskets,” said Wolf Pack coach RYAN KINSER. “We played better in the second but still struggled shooting.”

“We came out with a lot of energy in the third and forced a lot of turnovers, but ran out of gas in the forth.”

“We are very young and it showed tonight,” Kinser said. “The girls played hard but just couldn't convert when we got good shoots. We are going to need to score more points if we want to win games.”

West Hills: Bailey Albers 13 (6 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl), Clarisa Stamper 4 (4 reb), Jessica Fondas 5, Brandi McCrystal 2 (7 reb, 3 stl, 1 blk), Vivian Panella 5 (4 reb), Katie Byrd 6 (4 reb, 1 stl), Carly Raley 2 (2 reb), Megan Scott 1 (2 reb, 2 stl), Tiffany Nugyen (2 reb).

DEL NORTE 48, EL CAPITAN 23 – CIERRA CUTLER scored 13 points and grabbed 9 rebounds as the Vaqueros opened the season in Tuesday’s (Dec. 3) San Diego County Classic against visiting Del Norte.

El Capitan fell behind 12-6 in the 1st quarter and trailed 26-10 by halftime.

“It’s the first game, we just need to learn how to learn our offense,” said co-coach RICK WILKERSON.

El Capitan: Cierra Cutler 13 (9 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Valeria Gray 8 (7 reb, 2 stl), Cassidy Kygar 2 (2 reb, 1 ast), 1 stl), Mariel Vega (3 reb), MacKenzie Mead (4 reb, 1 ast), Elizabeth Ramos (1 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Adalida Moore (1 reb), Tory Capoocia (1 stl).

UNIVERSITY CITY 56, STEELE CANYON 19 – Host Steele Canyon could not find its offense in Tuesday’s (Dec. 3) of the San Diego County Classic.

The biggest problem for the Cougars was that three starters were on the bench with injuries.

Thus the Cougars did not score more than 5 points in a single quarter.

Steele Canyon: Julianna Loibl 6 (6 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), AshleyTavizon 6 (2 reb, 3 stl, 1 blk), Isabella Welch 3 (10 reb, 4 stl), Nicki DePaola 2 (3 reb, 1 blk), Arlynda Fillmore 2 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Victoria Bott (2 reb), Dai’re Watkins (4 reb, 1 stl), Shelby Johsnon (1 reb, 1 stl).

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (11-30-13) — The Christian High girls opened the season with a powerful one-two punch as CHAYAN LOWERY pulled off a triple-double of 33 points, 14 rebounds and 12 blocks, while TAYLOR MILLER scored 15 points as Patriots knocked off Bonita Vista 48-44 in the Friday’s (Nov. 29) opening round of the 7th annual Monte Vista Invitational.

Christian: Chayan Lowery 33 (14 reb, 14 blk, 4 ast, 4 stl), Taylor Miller 15 (7 reb, 2 blk, 1 ast), Melina Jones (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Brooke Owens (1 ast, 3 stl), Sage Salasup (1 reb, 1 stl), Annie Atterbury (1 reb).

BONITA VISTA 58, SANTANA 47 – Visiting Bonita Vista took an early 20-11 lead but the Sultans tied the game in the 4th quarter and then had three players foul out, which helped decide the issue.

After three quarters Bonita Vista led 42-40.

“We were right there but couldn’t make a free throw as we were 5-for-19,” said Santana coach LARRY CLARK. “That – and we committed 27 turnovers – was a bad combination.”

Freshman guard MORGAN TURNER did most of her scoring from long distance, hitting four 3-pointers.

Santana: Morgan Turner 15, Savannah Garcia 12, Taylor Estes 8, Kylie Brase 6, Emily Kloss 2, Savanah Fenn 2, Dominique Morrison 2.

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (11-30-13) — The 2013-14 girls basketball season opened Friday (Nov. 2(0, but the Monte Vista Monarchs were upended by the visiting Patrick Henry Patriots, 48-38, on the Monarchs' floor.

No other information or details on this Monarchs Invitational contest were reported.

By Bill Dickens
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (7-10-13) — Three of East County’s finest girls basketball recent graduates have accepted scholarships to prestigious colleges.

Granite Hills guard SKYLAR WILLIAMS, a four-year starter who was tabbed the 2013 East County Sports' Player of the Year, has accepted a scholarship to Florida A&M. The versatile Williams averaged 22.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, 4.5 steals and 2.5 assists for the Eagles, which reached the semifinals of the Southern California Regionals.

Williams’ teammate ANNA VIETTRY has accepted a scholarship to Point Loma Nazarene. Viettry averaged 10.8 ppg, 6.7 assists and 2.7 steals as a senior. She was named to the All-East County team twice.

EMILY COLE of West Hills, a three-time All-East County first team pick who has signed with Cal State Northridge, averaged 10.9 points and 6.7 assists as a senior. She nailed 172 three-pointers in her final three seasons for the Wolf Pack.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (4-20-13) — Grossmont High School is expected to promote GRACE CAMPBELL as its new girls basketball coach next week. The native of the Inland Empire served as junior varsity coach last season.

Campbell expects to turn around the Foothillers program.

"Your future is priority, your success starts now," Campbell said in a statement to her future players. "I have high hopes and expectations for my program and with the help and support of everyone the sky is the limit."

"My goal is to put Grossmont girls basketball back on the map next season.”

Campbell knows about success on the court, going to the state playoffs with Chaffey College in Rancho Cucamonga, then went to the NAIA playoffs at Northwestern Oklahoma State.

She returned to Chaffey as an assistant coach with the Panthers, before coaching at Alta Loma High and now coming to Grossmont.

"We will be doing numerous things during the summer such as camps, so keep an eye out for my basketball program. We are destined to do great things."

Campbell takes over for JEFF BICKFORD, who resigned followed a pair of seasons with the Hillers.