EAST COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL 2014-15 (Jan. '15)

NAVIGATION:    FRONT  Nov/Dec '14  Jan '15  Feb'15  CIF '15  STATS'14  PHOTOS'14-15 All-League  ARCHIVES:     13/14 12/13   11/12  10/11  09/10  08/09  07/08  06/07  05/06 Archives  All-Star Games

YOUR AD CAN GO RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW! Please Support Us Today!

Highlanders stumble heading into CIF

By James McHugh
© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (2-21-15) — Things started off well for the Matadors on Friday night (Feb. 20). Senior NATE GILBERT was slashing through the Helix defense, collecting six first quarter points. Fellow Senior DONNELL PAYNE was doing one better with seven of his own, and Mount Miguel had a 16-12 edge as the first eight minutes were in the book.

That's where things swung the Highlander's way. Two separate 6-0 runs to start and close the 2nd quarter helped Helix grab control and never let go, finishing the contest with a 55-44 score.

At halftime Mount Miguel was staring at a 27-24 deficit and the senior captains were staring at their last game in uniform for the Matadors. When asked which of his exiting seniors would be the hardest to replace, coach JAY ROWLETT had praise for all of his floor leaders, "They're all going to be hard to replace, DONNELL (PAYNE) for sure, we'll just have to see who steps up like these guys did when it was their turn to lead."

Payne and Gilbert finished their final game with 30 of the Matadors’ 44 points combined. Mount Miguel is on the outside of a 16 team field in division two and not predicted to see post season play.

For Helix, a 28-20 second half and 55-44 victory has the Highlanders looking at a possible 11th seed in the division I playoffs, which will likely land a date with Poway, Mission Hills or Serra. Grossmont is also in the group of potential matchups, but league affiliation would likely debunk that possibility. When asked if any of those teams provide a better match-up for the Highlanders, senior LUKE HOLLOWAY stated "Serra maybe, maybe Mission Hills, but we'll be on the road."

Coach JOHN SINGER simplified matters, "We'll just lace em' up and play the game, either way we have to go on the road."

"We've got a lot of things to work on," noted Singer, "Tonight.. tonight they played well and this was nice for the seniors, winning in their last home game they will play."

Holloway insisted there is a key to a successful playoff run, "Finishing inside, we've got to do that, we have to finish down low." An excellent assertion from the Idaho State bound football player. Helix missed 18 shots in the paint on the night and although they grabbed offensive rebounds on a good number of those, easy points, will be important points come playoff time. Coach Singer will have the weekend to prepare Helix once pairings are released on Saturday at noon.

Mount Miguel: Nate Gilbert 16 (6 reb, 4 blk, 3 stl, 1 ast), Donnell Payne 14 (6 reb, 1 ast), Ricky Harvey 5 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Trevon Allen 5 (3 reb, 1 stl), Darian Norwood 4 (4 reb, 4 blk, 2 ast), Taj Tucker (2 reb, 1 ast), Jay-Von Jones (2 reb, 1 stl).

Helix: Qrizjiah Mobley 17 (7 reb, 2 stl, 1 ast, 1 blk), Malik Tambwe 11 (6 reb, 2 blk, 1 stl) Luke Holloway 10 (10 reb, 5 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Justin Flisher 7 (4 reb), Eisaiah Blair 4 (1 stl, 1 blk), Jaylin Arnold 3 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Jordan Velasco 3 (2 reb, 3 stl, 1 ast), Jumar Wynn (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Marcus Norris (2 reb).

GROSSMONT 50, STEELE CANYON 43 — Grossmont locked up its second straight Grossmont Hills League championship in two years, as the Foothillers upended the Cougars Friday night (Feb. 20).

“We played really well in the third quarter,” said Foothillers coach FRANK FOGGIANO. “That’s when we really opened up our lead. TOMMY (RUTHERFORD) had 8 points in the third quarter.

“Steele Canyon played a good fourth quarter. We tried to hold the ball and slow the game down and lost our momentum. They played really well.”

Rutherford led the Foothillers in scoring with 25 points and 23 rebounds.

“We got out to the early lead but struggled in the second and third quarters,” said Cougars coach DEREK STEPHENS. “We didn’t press as effectively in the middle two quarters. Tommy kind of killed us then. We were down but made a run in the fourth quarter (outscoring Grossmont 15-5).”

TARIQ TILLMAN led the Cougars in scoring with 18 points.

Grossmont: Tommy Rutherford 25 (23 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Jeremiah Appleton 8 (2 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Cameron Henderson 5 (5 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Hunter Gaines 5 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Jacob Denson 3 (4 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Branik Brown 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Deshan Hillman 2 (1 reb).

Steele Canyon: Tariq Tillman 18, Aaron Pisiona 8, Emari Brooks 7, Dylan Hamlett 4, Marcus White 3, Gage Sanders 3.

MONTE VISTA 65, GRANITE HILLS 56 — Monte Vista and Granite Hills battled almost to a draw in the first quarter of Friday night’s (Feb. 20) Grossmont Valley League game, with the Eagles holding a one-point advantage.

In fact the Eagles held the lead into the break, leading 31-19 at intermission.

The third quarter was another matter as Monte Vista poured on the coal, ending that quarter 20-15 ahead of the Eagles. The fourth quarter was more of the same as the Monarchs led 26-10 for the final victory.

TRE OWENS led Monte Vista in scoring with 19 points, while DEVRON YOUNG added 13 as did ADAM WALLACE. SHAI STEVENSON contributed 10 points.

Monte Vista: Tre Owens 19 (2 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), Devron Young 13 (4 reb, 4 stl), Adam Wallace 13 (7 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Shai Stevenson 10 (7 reb, 4 stl, 3 blk), Saiyeed Mershon 7 (6 reb, 1 ast), Diondre McHayle 2 (9 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Terry Bone (2 reb, 1 stl).

Granite Hills: No report.

EL CAJON VALLEY 60, EL CAPITAN 51 — Friday night (Feb. 20) was a celebration on several counts for El Cajon Valley, which completed a first-ever 10-0 in Grossmont Valley League play on Senior Night at the home of the Braves.

“They jumped out on us 12-2 because I didn’t have my big guys in,” noted El Cajon Valley coach MARTY ELLIS. “It was Senior Night and my seniors were playing. El Cap really keyed on RICHARD GARCIA because he had 5 threes in our last game.

“We finished 10-0 in league,” he continued. “That’s a huge accomplishment for El Cajon Valley. It’s never been done at El Cajon Valley before – 10-0 in league.”

SYON HICKS led the Braves with 27 points, while IBRAHIM ALI added 11 points and 6 rebounds for El Cajon Valley. As usual RONNE READUS was big on the boards with 14 rebounds and a block.

El Cajon Valley: Syon Hicks 27 (3 reb, 4 stl), Ibrahim Ali 11 (6 reb, 2 stl), Brandon Rumley 7 (4 reb), Ronne Readus 6 (14 reb, 1 blk), Dion Dean 4 (5 reb, 3 stl), Ricky Garcia 3 (1 reb), Drake Afaisen 2 (3 reb, 3 stl).

El Capitan: No report.

SANTANA 72, VALHALLA 64 — The Sultans leaped out ahead of Valhalla 26-13 in the first quarter of Friday night’s (Feb. 20) Grossmont Valley League action. The Norsemen regained their composure to pull ahead 12-8 in the second quarter, leaving the score 34-25 at the break.

Santana again gained the one-point edge in the third quarter (17-16) and even though Valhalla would win the fourth quarter with 23-21 scoring, it was not enough to overcome the lead held by the Sultans.

FRANKIE GUTIERREZ punched in a career high 25 points for the Sultans and was 14-18 on free throws. RYAN BRATLIEN powered in 13 points and DAULTON BARRY added 10.

For Valhalla JACOB HAMMETT punched in a double-double of 28 points and 10 rebounds, while JAKE BASSETTE also rolled a double-double of 13 points and 10 rebounds. COLE HENDERSON added 11 points for the Norsemen.

Santana: Frankie Gutierrez 25 (9 reb, 6 ast, 2 stl), Ryan Bratlien 13 (1 reb, 1 stl), Daulton Barry 10 (1 reb), Sage Hicks 8 (3 reb, 3 stl), Trent Baugh 7 (6 reb), Mitchell Miller 6 (3 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Austin Miller 3 (1 reb, 2 ast), Anthony Romero (1 stl), Nathan Ball (1 reb).

Valhalla: Jacob Hammett 28 (10 reb, 5 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Jake Bassette 13 (10 reb, 1 ast), Cole Henderson 11 (6 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk, 3 stl), Carson Baker 6 (3 reb), Jordan Ellis 3 (7 ast, 3 stl), Nathan Yousif 3 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), John Murad (1 reb, 1 stl), Matthew Sako (3 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl).

Knights claim another title

By James McHugh
© East County Sports.com
Rancho San Diego (2-19-15) — Foothills Christian and Army Navy Academy faced off for the Coastal League Championship on Wednesday night (Feb. 18) at Cuyamaca College. Foothills Christian is no stranger to league championships, grabbing six straight titles while going 65-0 over the last several seasons in the Sunset and Citrus circuit.

The Coastal title is something the Knights will cherish with a bit more pride. Foothills Christian played four games against top 10 opponents before completing an 11-1 run to the top of the Coastal, finishing with a 46-42 victory over Army-Navy on Wednesday.

Army Navy had its chances early on. Junior T.J. LEAF poured in the first 10 points for the Knights, but the Warriors led 15-13 after a quarter. Foothills landed just one of five attempts from above the arc in the quarter. Army Navy then spurted to a seven point lead in the second quarter. Back to back three pointers from Caleb Morris and Richard Polanco had the Warriors dreaming of a shared league crown.

A 9-0 run to close the half by Foothills Christian dashed those hopes. JAVIER GUERRERO showed up, often, at just the right time on this night for a Foothills team that was not playing a fast paced offense. A rebound by Guerrero and assist to OMAJAE SMITH with 52.8 to play in the first half sealed a comeback from seven points down as Smith drew a foul and converted the free throw. A Leaf tip-in at the buzzer gave Foothills a 22-20 half time lead.

JORDAN STARR hit a big shot to start the second half for the Knights. The shot was initially ruled a two point shot, however, many in attendance and those familiar with the Cuyamaca College court immediately realized that officials were incorrectly referring to the college three point line that Starr had clearly stepped on in ruling the shot a two. Starr was however, well behind the very light colored high school three point line. It wasn't until four minutes into the fourth quarter that officials were finally given the correct information and reverted Starr's shot to a three pointer.

The change gave Foothills a one point lead at 38-37. After Starr picked up a steal that was poked away from Polanco by NIKKO PARANADA, the Knights poured salt in the Warrior's wound. Smith found Guerrero open for a three that extended the Knight's lead to 41-37. Guerrero would provide the magic one last time for Foothills and close the door on the Warrior's hopes of a share of a Championship when he found LUIS SALGADO for his first three pointer of the evening. Foothills led 46-37 and the game was all but done.

"I want to praise Javier," stated Knight's coach BRAD LEAF. "He hasn't got a lot of minutes the last six games." Guerrero's minutes counted one more valuable than the next on this night.

Army-Navy attempted to foul the Knights late, but needed to rack up five fouls before they could even send Salgado to the line to ice it for Foothills and hand Coach Leaf's squad the most impressive League title in their history. Foothills will likely face Oceanside in round one of the Division two playoffs next week.

Foothills Christian: T.J. Leaf 21 (9 reb, 3 ast, 3 blk, 1 stl), Omajae Smith 11 (5 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Luis Salgado 5 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Jordan Starr 3 (6 reb, 4 stl, 1 ast), Javier Guerrero 3 (3 reb, 3 ast), Nikko Paranada 3 (2 stl, 2 blk, 1 ast), Kale Baldado (1 reb).

STEELE CANYON 66, VALHALLA 59 — Despite suffering a seemingly meaningless non-league lossto Steele Canyon Wednesday (Feb. 18), the Norsemen maintained their No. 1 position in the power rankings in Division III.

Valhalla had an 11-0 run but still was unable to knock Steele Canyon out of the saddle.

TARIQ TILLMAN drove in a trio of 3-pointers to lead Steele Canyon with a team best 17 points. MARCUS WHITE added 14 points for the Cougars, who had 9 of their 11 players score.

COLE HENDERSON rang up a game high 20 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for Steele Canyon. Included in his totals were 4 triples. JORDAN ELLIS chipped in with 19 markers – the majority of which came from the free throw line where he was 9 of 12.

Steele Canyon: Tariq Tillman 17, Marcus White 14, Dylan Hamlett 8, Aaron Pisiona 5, Gage Sanders 5, Emari Brooks 5, Robert Teo 4, Lyndon Newsom 4, Thomas Higgenbotham 4.

Valhalla: Cole Henderson 20 (10 reb, 2 stl), Jordan Ellis 19 (9 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Jacob Hammett 9 (8 reb, 3 ast), Nathan Yousif 8 (3 reb, 1 stl), Jake Bassette 2 (3 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), John Murad (1 ast).

POINT LOMA 59, EL CAJON VALLEY 54 — The Braves had a 12-game winning streak snapped by visiting Point Loma in a non-league encounter Wednesday (Feb. 18).

“We were just downright flat, and that’s no understatement,” related El Cajon Valley coach MARTY ELLIS.

Trailing 54-33 the Pointers took command, outscoring El Cajon Valley 26-11 in the fourth quarter.

In spite of the stunning upset, the Braves held onto their No. 1 seeding in Division III.

IBRAHIM ALI paced the Braves with 11 points, and DION DEAN and SYON HICKS had 10 points apiece. RONNE READUS was hot on the boards with 13 rebounds and two blocks to go with seven points.

El Cajon Valley: Ibrahim Ali 11 (3 reb), Dion Dean 10 (3 reb, 3 stl), Syon Hicks 10 (3 reb), Ronne Readus 7 (13 reb, 2 blk), Ricky Garcia 7 (1 reb), Damaje Hodges 5 (7 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Drake Afaisen 2 (2 reb, 2 stl), Brandon Rumley 2 (1 reb).

Braves, Foothillers claim league crowns

By Bill Dickens
©EastCountySports.com
EL CAJON (2-18-15) — The Braves of El Cajon Valley bounced past Madison Avenue rival Granite Hills 60-39 to clinch the Grossmont Valley League championship Tuesday (Feb. 17) on the east end of the avenue.

The victory gave the Braves their second Grossmont League championship in three years. The Braves finished the regular season this year 20-5 overall and 9-0 in league play. One non-league game remains in the regular season but it will have no effect on the Braves’ finish.

RONNE READUS paced the Braves inside and out with 18 points and 12 rebounds and also 6 steals.

“We have to believe that we can win every time we take the court,” said the 6-foot-7 junior.”

Granite Hills coach RANDY ANDERSON believes that Readus is a force inside the paint.

“That kid is definitely a power player,” Anderson said. “He has a tremendous spread eagle stance and he’s quick off the ball.”

The Braves figure to gain a high seed in the post season but the way the power ratings are stacked up one will never know until the final count.

“I’m pretty proud about winning this game because it’s my 20th (in a season),” El Cajon Valley coach MARTY ELLIS said. “Our game plan for this contest was taking the ball inside with Readus and 6-foot-5 BRANDON RUMLEY (who scored 10 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, dished 2 assists, made one steal and had 2 blocks).”

“Our game plan has changed a lot but tonight it was IBRAHIM ALI setting the table and the big guys pounding the boards,” Ellis added.

Ali finished with 16 points and eight rebounds, while DION DEAN scored 11 points to go with four rebounds.

Granite Hills could never kick start their offense and played a game of chase from the get go.

El Cajon Valley: Ronne Readus 18 (12 reb, 6 stl), Ibrahim Ali 16 (8 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Dion Dean 11 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Brandon Rumley 10 (7 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk), Drake Afaisen 3 (1 stl), Syon Hicks 2 (2 reb).

Granite Hills: Michael Ledesma 9 (2 reb, 1 stl, 3 blk), Cameron Spitzer 9 (4 reb, 1 stl), Ryan Kelly 4, Erin Swinson 3 (3 blk), Darien Cosio 3, Frankie Lucatuorto 2, Antonio Read (1 stl).

GROSSMONT 69, MOUNT MIGUEL 51 — Grossmont claimed its second straight Grossmont Hills League championship Tuesday night (Feb. 17) as the Foothillers toppled the Matadors in Spring Valley.

Not surprisingly, Grossmont’s TOMMY RUTHERFORD, who took a physical beating inside the paint, punched in 21 points and grabbed 21 rebounds as the Foothillers took the lead across the board.

While the Matadors, much like they are focused on smothering Rutherford, JACOB DENSON knocked down 18 points for the Hillers.

DONNELL PAYNE paced the Matadors with 21 points, while NATE GILBERT added 15 points and 7 rebounds. RICKY HARVEY posted up 11 points as well.

The Foothillers put the game on ice in the first quarter, scoring 23-12 in that period.

Grossmont: Tommy Rutherford 21 (21 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Jacob Denson 18 (4 reb, 1 stl, 2 stl), Cameron Henderson 9 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Hunter Gaines 9 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Jeremiah Appleton 5 (2 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), Deshan Hillman 3, Jacob Niskey 2 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Ryan Shirley 2.

Mount Miguel: Donnell Payne 21 (3 reb, 1 stl), Nate Gilbert 15 (7 reb, 1 ast), Ricky Harvey 11 (2 reb, 1 stl), Jay-Von Jones 2, Trevon Allen 1 (3 reb), Taj Tucker 1 (2 ast), Gary Haskins (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Darian Norwood (4 reb), Trannell Hudson (1 ast).

WEST HILLS 54, STEELE CANYON 43 — The West Hills Wolf Pack came into Tuesday night’s (Feb. 17) Grossmont Hills League game against the Steele Canyon Cougars looking to build their resume’ for the Division II playoffs and they were able to accomplish the task 54-43.

It was a very physical game played by both teams as in the first period Steele Canyon was able to use a 10-0 run to take the 16-10 lead. However the second period belonged to West Hills as they were able to claim the advantage 16-9 by playing their brand of physical ball and knot the score at 25-25 at the break.

The second half pretty much belonged to the Wolf Pack in that they out-muscled the Cougars. The third period saw them go on multiple runs which included a 5-0 run and extend it to a 9-0 streak to lead 34-25 with about 3:41 left in the period. The Wolf Pack saw their streak go to 13-1 to lead 38-26 with 3 minutes left. In the end West Hills finished the period with a 15-7 advantage to lead 40-32.

The fourth quarter was more of the same as West Hills saw themselves leading 48-36 with 4:22 left. They were able to hold their advantage when they needed the scoring thanks to THOMAS REANEY who muscled his way to a double-double with 18 points, 12 rebounds and dished 5 assists.

The other key players in the victory were MARCO OVIES who finished with 12 points, 5 rebounds and handed out 5 assists as well, and RICARDO BARAJAS who punched in 12 points. The other key to the Wolf Pack victory was the play of CHRIS MOYER who was able to pound his way to 8 rebounds which were crucial, especially in the second half.

Steele Canyon was led by DOMINICK WOOD-ANDERSON who scored 12 points and had 7 boards. The big man on the night for the Cougars on the glass was DYLAN HAMLETT who finished with 14 rebounds.

The Wolf Pack with the victory due to having a bye on Friday (Feb. 20) finish their season at 17-9 (4-4) and position themselves in line for a possible home game in the playoffs depending on the outcomes of the nights and Friday’s action.

West Hills: Thomas Reaney 18 (12 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), Marco Ovies 12 (5 reb, 5 ast), Ricardo Barajas 12 (4 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Bryce Parsons 6 (1 reb, 1 ast), Chris Moyer 4 (8 reb, 2 blk), Kyle Ruiz 2 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

Steele Canyon: Dominick Wood-Anderson 12 (7 reb, 3 stl), Aaron Pisiona 8 (2 reb, 1 ast), Gage Sanders 6, Dylan Hamlett 6 (14 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk), Jordan Johnson 4 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Lyndon Newsom 3 (1 ast, 1 stl), Emari Brooks 2 (3 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Marcus White 2 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Nick Hodge (1 ast), Jordan Zampetti (1 reb)
— Adam Paul

MONTE VISTA 60, SANTANA 46 — ADAM WALLACE and SHAI STEVENSON punched in 18 and 14 points respectively to prime Monte Vista’s playoff opportunities with a win in the Grossmont Valley League Tuesday (Feb. 17) in Santee.

Freshman DIONDRE McHAYLE, making his varsity debut, chipped in 10 points for the Monarchs, most of which came off the dealings of Wallace.

Monte Vista came out strong in the first quarter, leading 12-8. They maintained that advantage 20-7 in the second period and took a 32-15 lead into the break.

The Sultans tried to recover and put Santana back in front, to no avail.

RYAN BRATLIEN led the Sultans with 20 points, while FRANKIE GUTIERREZ chipped in with 10 points and five rebounds.

Monte Vista: Adam Wallace 18, Shai Stevenson 14, Diondre McHayle 10, Tre Owens 8, Devron Young 7, Saiyeed Mershon 4.

Santana: Ryan Bratlien 20 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk), Frankie Gutierrez 10 (5 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Nathan Ball 6 (1 reb, 2 ast), Mitchell Miller 4 (2 reb, 2 stl), Anthony Romero 4 (2 reb), Sage Hicks 2 (3 reb, 1 ast), Daulton Barry (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Trent Baugh (2 reb, 1 ast), Austin Miller (2 reb).

VALHALLA 60, EL CAPITAN 50 — Valhalla finished with a 5-3 Grossmont Valley League record and 18-6 overall as they conquered El Capitan on Tuesday (Feb. 17).

COLE HENDERSON paced the Norsemen with 14 points, 10 rebounds and 4 blocks, while JACOB HAMMETT pounded in 11 points and NATHAN YOUSIF scored 11.

Valhalla: Cole Henderson 14 (10 reb, 4 blk), Jacob Hammett 11 (3 reb, 5 ast, 2 blk, 3 stl), Nathan Yousif 11 (2 reb, 4 ast), Jordan Ellis 9 (4 reb, 1 stl), John Murad 6 (1 reb, 2 ast), Matthew Sako 5 (7 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Jake Bassette 2 (3 reb, 2 ast, 3 blk), Carson Baker 2 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl).

El Capitan: No report.

KEARNY 81, CHRISTIAN 53 — The Kearny Komets took a 27-5 lead over the Patriots in the first quarter, moving to 42-29 by halftime in Tuesday’s (Feb. 17) Central League encounter.

JOHNNY PAULSON led Christian with 14 points and 7 rebounds, including three 3s, while TRAVIS BALLARD scored 12 points and grabbed 5 rebounds and was 6-for-6 from the free throw line.

Christian: Johnny Paulson 14 (7 reb, 2 ast), Travis Ballard 12 (5 reb, 1 ast), Kyle Stowers 6 (4 reb, 2 ast), Nick Sexton 6 (4 reb), Trevor Howell 5 (1 reb, 1 ast), Grant Taylor 4, Layne Larson 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), JD Parker (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Ethan Contreras (1 reb, 1 stl).

Foothillers have no love for Conquistadors

©EastCountySports.com
EL CAJON (2-15-15) — It may have been officially Valentines Day according to the calendar but the Grossmont Foothillers had no love for the Serra Conquistadors as they came away with the 59-46 victory in the Saturday (Feb. 14) non-league matchup.

The Foothillers gave the crowd an entertaining date night delight as they were able to easily control the first quarter with a 15-9 scoring advantage which included a 7-0 run to lead 13-2 with 2:24 left in the first.

The second quarter was more of the same for the Foothillers as they started out on a 13-0 to stretch their lead to 28-9. However Serra was able to score at the end of the quarter on a buzzer beating jumper to make the score 28-15 in favor of Grossmont at the break.

The Conquistadors had no answer for the Foothillers big man in the middle TOMMY RUTHERFORD as he was able to able to put up 14 points, nine rebounds and include six blocks to his line for the half. Another contributor for Grossmont in the first half was JEREMIAH APPLETON who scored 6 points on two treys.

The second half pretty much started off for the Foothillers like the first half did on a streak of 8-0 to extend their lead to 36-15 with about 4:40 left in the third and to this point was their largest lead of the game. Serra was able to score a little bit but at the end of the period they still trailed 44-26.

The final period was made more interesting with the fact that Serra was able to somewhat cut into the Foothillers lead via their press defense and in fact at one point outscored Grossmont 16-9 with about 3:40 left to pull within 53-42. However Grossmont, thanks to crisp passing, was able to break the press and outlast them in the end despite Serra outscoring them 20-15 in the final period.

On the evening leading the Foothillers to victory was Rutherford who despite being double and triple teamed constantly the entire night put up a triple double consisting of 23 points on a perfect 11-11 from the field, 15 rebounds, and 10 blocks.

Helping Rutherford in the process was JEREMIAH APPLETON who put up 14 points including four treys, four rebounds, two assists and two steals and the other partner in crime was CAMERON HENDERSON who canned 12 points.

The Foothillers have been living up to the first place prediction and look to wrap up their side of the league hopefully Tuesday (Feb. 17) evening against Mount Miguel which would occur with the victory and a Steele Canyon loss.

Grossmont: Tommy Rutherford 23 (15 reb, 6 ast, 10 blk), Jeremiah Appleton 14 (4 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Cameron Henderson 12 (4 reb, 5 ast), Jacob Denson 4 (3 reb, 4 ast), Hunter Gaines 3 (4 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Branik Brown (1 stl), Deshawn Hillman (1 ast).
— Adam Paul

FOOTHILLS CHRISTIAN 79, HORIZON 58 – Foothills Christian spent a number of seasons in the Citrus and Sunset leagues against their own wishes. The desire to take on a tougher league schedule finally came to fruition this year when the Knights entered the Coastal League with multiple sport powerhouses La Jolla Country Day, Horizon, Army-Navy Academy, Santa Fe Christian, Francis Parker and The Bishop's School.

After Foothills showed no love to the visiting Horizon Panthers on Saturday evening (Feb. 14), the Knights are a win away from clinching their first Coastal League title and eighth league title overall. Foothills Christian won their first league title during the 2006-207 season (Citrus East) before spending a year as an Independent. The San Diego Section then enacted a rule requiring teams to be in a league during the regular season in order to qualify for post-season play. When the Knights returned to the Citrus League in 2008-2009 they set sail on six consecutive, undefeated, league championships before they entered the Coastal.

Junior Forward T.J. LEAF turned in a double-double with 34 points and 11 rebounds against Horizon. Leaf was 16-21 from the floor. Junior Guard NIKKO PARANADA rolled a double-double of his own with 17 points on six of nine shooting and 11 assist. Junior LUIS SALGADO drilled four more three pointers to bring his season total to 77 connections from above the arc and 238 for his career. Junior OMAJAE SMITH was the only other scorer for the Knights on this night, netting 16 points on five of 10 shooting and connecting on six of eight free throws.

Foothills faces Army-Navy Academy Wednesday February 18 at 7:30 p.m. at CuyamacaCollege. A win and the Knights clinch, an Army-Navy victory and then things get interesting.

The Warriors face Bishop's two nights later Friday (Feb. 20) and could then catch a share of the league title or hand a share to their La Jolla foes. That scenario would also depend on a Bishop's victory over Francis Parker on Tuesday (Feb. 17). All things settled, Foothills Christian and Army-Navy will know exactly what is on the line when they take the court next week.

Make no mistake, both teams will bring plenty of motivation. Army-Navy is looking to boost their power ranking in the San Diego Section Open Division, while Foothills Christian is currently slated as the number two team in Southern California in the division two state rankings behind La Mirada.

Foothills Christain: T.J. Leaf 34 (11 reb, 6 ast, 1 stl) Nikko Paranada 17 (11 ast, 1 stl) Omajae Smith 16 (8 reb, 2 stl, 1 ast) Luis Salgado 12 (4 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl) Kale Baldado (3 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk) Jordan Starr (2 reb) Jordan VanOmmering (2 reb, 1 stl) Javier Guerrero (1 reb, 1 ast)
— JAMES McHUGH

BISHOP’S 60, MOUNT MIGUEL 54 — The Matadors came out strong with a 23-20 first quarter lead in Saturday’s and made it stand up until they let is slip away in the fourth quarter 60-44.

One of the missing links for MountMiguel was DONNELL PAYNE, who was out of town with a family commitment.

NATE GILBERT pumped in 21 points and seven rebounds, while TREVON ALLEN added a season high 12 points, six rebounds, an assist and a steal.

DARIAN NORWOOD chipped in with 10 points and five rebounds.

“We were playing hard but we were without our best player,” said Mount Miguel coach JAY ROWLETT.

Mount Miguel: Nate Gilbert 21 (7 reb, 1 ast), Trevon Allen 12 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Darian Norwood 10 (5 reb), Taj Tucker 8 (1 reb, 6 ast), Gary Haskins 2 (3 reb), Ricky Harvey 1 (1 stl), Trannell Hudson (2 reb).

Braves clinch Valley . . . Again

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (2-14-15) — “It feels real good to be league champs,” understated El Cajon Valley coach MARTY ELLIS after knocking off Grossmont Valley League rival Valhalla 82-73. “I don’t think people in East County were thinking we would be league champs. The gym was packed tonight.”

“This is something my guys will never duplicate again. My job was to give them something they can remember for the rest of their lives. For the school, it’s huge because we’ve started something new for the program. I’m thinking we’ve changed the culture of El Cajon Valley when it comes to basketball. We’re not a doormat anymore.”

“Abe (IBRAHIM ALI) played like a true MVP tonight,” Ellis noted. “And DRAKE (AFAISEN) hit 7 of 7 free throws down the stretch.

“This is something nobody can take away from us – two league championships in three years.”

El Cajon Valley held a 17-14 first quarter edge and maintained a 35-29 advantage by halftime. They led by three points in the third quarter scoring and played the Norsemen even at 25 apiece in the fourth. Each team had a starter foul out in the fourth quarter. Valhalla’s last two fouls were and-ones and the Braves converted them both.

Ali paced the Braves with a game high 33 points, SYON HICKS added 14, and RONNE READUS and Afaisen each chipped in with 10 apiece.

COLE HENDERSON led the Norsemen with 22 points and 10 rebounds, plus 4 blocks and 3 assists. MATTHEW SAKO chipped in with 15 points and JACOB HAMMETT added 12 points and eight rebounds. JAKE BASSETTE grabbed nine rebounds.

El Cajon Valley: Ibrahim Ali 33 (4 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Syon Hicks 14 (3 reb), Ronne Readus 10, Drake Afaisen 10 (3 reb), Brandon Rumley 9 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Ricky Garcia 3, Dion Dean 3.

Valhalla: Cole Henderson 22 (10 reb, 3 ast, 4 blk), Matthew Sako 15 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Jacob Hammett 12 (8 reb, 4 ast, 1 blk), Jordan Ellis 8 (1 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Jake Bassette 6 (9 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Nathan Yousif 6 (2 reb, 3 ast), John Murad 4 (2 reb), Carson Baker (1 reb).

STEELE CANYON 61, MOUNT MIGUEL 46 — Steele Canyon hit the scoreboard early, racking up a 22-7 first quarter lead in Friday’s (Feb. 13) Grossmont Hills League contest in Spring Valley.

Mount Miguel rallied in the second quarter to draw within 36-23 at halftime and led the Cougars by four points in the third quarter. Steele Canyon went on a run in the fourth to seal the victory.

DOMINICK WOOD-ANDERSON led Steele Canyon in scoring with 18 points and 10 rebounds, and AARON PISIONA punched in 13 points.

DONNELL PAYNE paced the Matadors with 14 points and seven rebounds, and RICKY HARVEY scored a career high 12 points for Mount Miguel.

Steele Canyon: Dominick Wood-Anderson 18, Aaron Pisiona 13, Marcus White 8, Dylan Hamlett 6, Nick Hodge 5, Emari Brooks 3, Tariq Tillman 3, Gage Sanders 3, Lyndon Newsom 2.

Mount Miguel: Donnell Payne 14 (7 reb, 2 ast, 1 stlL), Ricky Harvey 12 (2 reb, 1 ast), Trevon Allen 7 (4 reb, 2 stl), Darian Norwood 6 (6 reb, 2 stl), Nate Gilbert 5 (4 reb), Taj Tucker (2 ast, 1 stl), Trannell Hudson (1 reb), Gary Haskins (1 reb).

HELIX 39, WEST HILLS 38 — West Hills led in every quarter of Friday’s (Feb. 13) Grossmont Hills League encounter with Helix, but the Highlanders’ MARCUS NORRIS hit the front end of a one and one with :04 seconds left to steal the victory by a single point.

“It was a tough way to lose the game on Senior Night,” said Wolf Pack assistant coach LUCAS ARMSTRONG. “Referee made a bad call with three seconds to go and gave Helix two free throws. They hit one of two and won by one.

“Our kids battled and hung tough the entire game,” Armstrong added. “It was very unfortunate to lose the game like that.”

LUKE HOLLOWAY led Helix with 10 points, six rebounds and three blocks, while Norris grabbed 11 rebounds to go with seven points. The Highlanders had balanced scoring across the board.

West Hills was paced by THOMAS REANEY with 16 points and 10 rebounds.

Helix: Luke Holloway 10 (6 reb, 1 stl, 3 blk), Marcus Norris 7 (11 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl, 3 blk), Qrizjiah Mobley 7 (4 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Jordan Velasco 5 (3 reb, 7 ast, 3 stl), Henry Holtz 5 (5 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk), Justin Flisher 3 (3 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Jumar Wynn (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Eisaiah Blair (4 reb), Jaylin Arnold (1 stl).

West Hills: Thomas Reaney 16 (10 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Bryce Parsons 5 (5 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Kyle Ruiz 3 (2 reb, 1 ast), Sahil Alami 3, Issa Ghandour 2 (1 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Austin Alderson (7 reb, 1 ast, 3 blk, 1 stl), Chris Moyer (3 reb, 1 blk), Marco Ovies (2 reb, 4 ast), Cameron Barry (1 stl, 1 ast).

SANTANA 63, GRANITE HILLS 60 (2 OT) — The Grossmont Valley League got more interesting after Friday’s (Feb. 13) action as the Santana Sultans held home court advantage over the visiting Granite Hills Eagles 63-60 in double overtime.

The Sultans looked to reverse the previous encounter between the two as it was 59-51 in favor of the Eagles. However the Sultans were able to jump out of the gate to a 20-9 lead after one period of play. The Eagles stormed their way back into the game outscoring the Sultans 16-10 to pull within 30-25 at the break.

In the second half it was the Sultans who were able to take the third period for a change as it is the quarter that usually gave them issues. They outscored the Eagles 13-4 to take the 43-29 lead going into the final stanza.

In the fourth period the Eagles decided to put their game into overdrive and by doing so were able to completely dominate 24-10 and knot the score at 53-53 to send the game into bonus play. However both teams couldn’t really buy a basket and the game was knotted again at 57-57 to send the game into a second overtime.

In the second overtime both teams couldn’t really muster any type of offense, however the Sultans were able to find enough to pull out the victory as they were able to outlast the Eagles 6-3 and come away with the victory.

Granite Hills was paced by the duo of ANTONIO READ who punched his way with 22 points, DAVID SETTERBERG who put up 15 points and MICHAEL LEDESMA with 10.

Santana was led by their trio of RYAN BRATLIEN who canned 20 points, MITCHELL MILLER who put up a season high of 13 points, and FRANKIE GUTIERREZ who scored 10 points.

Now back to the interesting aspect of the Valley League. With the victory the Sultans now find themselves out of the cellar and into fourth place all by themselves. Granite Hills with the loss now is tied at the bottom with Monte Vista.

Granite Hills: Antonio Read 22 (3 ast), David Setterberg 15 (1 reb, 3 stl, 2 blk), Michael Ledesma 10 (4 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk), Cameron Spitzer 6 (8 reb, 6 ast, 1 stl), Erin Swinson 5 (2 reb), Darien Cosio 2 (1 reb, 1 ast), Frankie Lucatuorto (2 reb).

Santana: Ryan Bratlien 20 (8 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Mitchell Miller 13 (6 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Frankie Gutierrez 10 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Anthony Romero 8 (3 reb), Nathan Ball 5 (2 reb, 1 ast), Sage Hicks 3 (2 reb), Daulton Barry 2 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk), Trent Baugh 2 (2 reb, 1 stl), Austin Miller (1 reb).
— Adam Paul

EL CAPITAN 56, MONTE VISTA 55 — El Capitan and Monte Vista played with identical scores of 17-14 in both the first and second quarters of Friday night’s (Feb. 13) Grossmont Valley League encounter, with the Vaqueros on the leading end of the scoring.

El Capitan maintained a 34-28 advantage at the half, and had that one point advantage at the end to take the victory. Monte Vista actually outscored the Vaqueros in the final two quarters, but the early lead held by the Vaqueros were enough to make the difference.

“I thought we played hard,” said Monarchs coach MIKE TULLY. “We shared the ball really well. We don’t have much of a bench – we only have six kids and four of them scored. I’ve lost three kids for one reason or another and it’s really hurt me. Of 17 games we’ve lost 10 by 5 points or less.

“We were down by two points at the very end of the game with 11 seconds left. We pressed them and stole the ball three times but the player couldn’t hold onto it.”

DEVRON YOUNG paced the Monarchs with 22 points, eight rebounds, six assists and two steals. SAIYEED MERSHON kick in with 18 points, six rebounds and a block, while SHAI STEVENSON grabbed nine rebounds to go with his eight points.

El Capitan: No report.

Monte Vista: Devron Young 22 (8 reb, 6 ast, 2 stl), Saiyeed Mershon 18 (6 reb, 1 blk), Shai Stevenson 8 (9 reb, 1 ast, 3 blk, 4 stl), Adam Wallace 7 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

SAN DIEGO 74, CHRISTIAN 68 (OT) — San Diego and Christian battled in the first two quarters, with each taking a turn at the lead in Friday’s (Feb. 13) Central League game at the Ryan Athletic Center in El Cajon.

The Cavers edged the Patriots 34-32 at the half but Christian took an 18-10 lead in the third quarter.

“We had a chance to win it in regulation but we missed the final two shots,” said Patriots assistant coach TIM BROWN.

San Diego outscored Christian 11-5 in the overtime period.

Christian was led by TRAVIS BALLARD with 25 points and nine rebounds, while JOHNNY PAULSON punched in 13 points and grabbed seven rebounds for the Patriots.

Christian: Travis Ballard 25 (9 reb), Johnny Paulson 13 (7 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Trevor Howell 9 (3 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl), Kyle Stowers 6 (4 reb, 7 ast, 1 stl), Layne Larson 6 (1 ast), David Jeremiah 3 (5 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), JD Parker 3 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Nick Sexton 2 (3 reb), Grant Taylor (2 ast).

Defense keys Christian's win

© East County Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (2-13-15) — A championship is out of reach of the Christian Patriots despite Thursday’s (Feb. 12) Central League 48-44 victory over Madison.

But the playoffs, of course, will be a different story down the road.

“It was a close game the entire game,” said Patriots assistant coach TIM BROWN. “Our defense played really well in the second half.”

TREVOR HOWELL paced the Patriots with 12 points and three steals, while TRAVIS BALLARD added 11 points, snared six rebounds and blocked two shots. JD PARKER knocked down 10 points, and JOHNNY PAULSOSN added nine markers as the Patriots improved to 15-8, 7-4 CL.

Howell punched in four treys to go along with his 12 points.

Christian: Trevor Howell 12 (1 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Travis Ballard 11 (6 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk), JD Parker 10 (1 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Johnny Paulson 9 (4 reb, 3 stl), David Jeremiah 4 (5 reb, 2 stl), Nick Sexton 2 (4 reb), Kyle Stowers (5 reb, 3 ast, 2 blk).

Rivalry game brings the best out of Rutherford and the Foothillers

By Bill Dickens
© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (2-12-15) — TOMMY RUTHERFORD ripped off 33 points and 22 rebounds as the Foothillers manhandled Helix Wednesday night (Feb. 11) in a Grossmont Hills League. The 6-foot-10 Rutherford nailed 19 of 22 free throws to pace Grossmont to a 64-49 victory.

CAMERON HENDERSON chipped in with 14 points, and JACOB DENSON knocked down 12 for Grossmont. Henderson whistled in 4 three-pointers and 2 of 2 free throws.

The pivotal period of the contest was Grossmont’s 20-9 run in the third quarter as the Foothillers improved to 18-4 overall and 5-1 in league.

The Highlanders put together four come from behind runs but could never catch the Foothillers.

Only one Helix player reached double digits and that would be QRIZJIAH MOBLEY who dropped in 17 points and dished four assists.

Grossmont: Tommy Rutherford 33 (22 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Cameron Henderson 14 (3 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Jacob Denson 12 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Hunter Gaines 3 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Jeremiah Appleton 2 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

Helix: Qrizjiah Mobley 17 (1 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Jordan Velasco 5 (2 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Gary Linson 4 (5 reb, 1 ast), Luke Holloway 4 (2 reb, 1 stl), Marvin Roberts 4 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Marcus Norris 3 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Eisaiah Blair 2 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 blk), Justin Flisher 2 (1 reb, 2 stl), Jaylin Arnold 1 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Jumar Wynn 1 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Alex Dumas 1 (2 reb), Henry Holtz (1 reb, 1 ast).

FOOTHILLS CHRISTIAN 75, LA JOLLA COUNTRY DAY 34 — NIKKO PARANADA had a nearly perfect night for the Knights Wednesday (Feb. 11) at Cuyamaca College. One missed free throw was all that separated the junior guard from a flawless night of shooting. Paranada connected on 10 of 10 shots from the field, including five of five from three point range. Paranada accounted for six assists on the night as well, playing a part in nearly everything Foothills did on offense. The Knights’ 75-34 victory over La Jolla Country Day moves Foothills to 9-1 in their inaugural season of Coastal League play.

Sharpshooter LUIS SALGADO was missing from the lineup for Foothills Christian while battling the flu. Junior T.J. LEAF turned in a solid double-double of 21 points and 15 rebounds. The 21 points temporarily move Leaf into 17th all time on the San Diego Section CIF leader board for career points at 1,969, eight points in front of senior San Ysidro guard Lynard Steward who has tallied 1,961.

Foothills faces Horizon this Saturday night (Feb. 14) at Cuyamaca College. A win for Foothills and a win by Army-Navy Academy in their next two league games would set up a February 18th game with league title implications for both top five clubs. A win for the Knights in that game would seal a Coastal League championship. A win by Army-Navy would complicate things and could create a co- or tri-champion depending on the result of their game against Bishop's on Friday (Feb. 20).

Foothills would like to avoid all the math and simplify things by completing a perfect run through the second round of Coastal action. Foothills has a firm grasp on the number one seed in the division two playoffs currently. La Jolla Country Day is now hanging onto the number 16 seed in the division with games against Santa Fe Christian and Francis Parker remaining on their schedule.

Foothills Christian: Nikko Paranada 26 (1 reb, 6 ast, 1 stl), T.J. Leaf 21 (15 reb, 5 ast, 4 blk, 2 stl), Omajae Smith 7 (3 reb, 1 ast), Kale Baldado 6 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Jordan Starr 6 (2 reb, 3 ast, 3 blk, 2 stl), Jordan VanOmmering 6 (1 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Javier Guerrero 3 (3 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl).
— James McHugh

Ellis perfect and Henderson with a double double for Valhalla

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (2-11-15) — The Valhalla Norsemen put on the pressure in Tuesday’s (Feb. 10) Grossmont Valley League encounter by pouring on the coal against Granite Hills 28-11 in the third quarter, and that all but decided the issue.

The Norsemen continued on to dribble past the Eagles 71-49 in what turned out to be a lop-sided victory.

JORDAN ELLIS, who shared the scoring lead with COLE HENDERSON with 20 points apiece, was 11-for-11 from the free throw line. Henderson also chalked up 10 rebounds for the Norsemen (18-5, 5-2 GVL).

NATHAN YOUSIF chipped in with 16 points for Valhalla.

DAVID SETTERBERG led Granite Hills with 20 points and four blocks, and ANTONIO READ added 17.

Valhalla used various weapons to land the Eagles, including netting 18 of 20 free throws and dishing 13 assists, including 32 rebounds.

Valhalla: Jordan Elllis 20 (2 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Cole Henderson 20 (10 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk, 4 stl), Nathan Yousif 16 (6 reb, 1 ast), Jacob Hammett 8 (2 reb, 5 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Matthew Sako 2 (4 ast), Christian White 2 (1 stl, 1 blk), Jake Bassette 2 (5 reb, 1 ast), Carson Baker 1 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Chris Attiq (1 reb), Austin Gatus (1 reb).

Granite Hills: David Setterberg 20 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl, 4 blk), Antonio Read 17 (2 reb, 2 ast), Cameron Spitzer 7 (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Erin Swinson 3, Noor Noory 2, Michael Ledesma (4 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Darien Cosio (2 reb, 1 stl), Blake Branvall (2 reb), Frankie Lucatuorto (1 reb, 1 ast), Dominic Sudo-Hooper (1 reb).

EL CAJON VALLEY 85, MONTE VISTA 42 — The streaking El Cajon Valley Braves, who have won 11 in a row, mowed down Monte Vista in all four quarters of Tuesday’s (Feb. 10) Grossmont Valley League contest in the Cajon Zone.

SYON HICKS led the Braves in scoring with 27 points, while IBRAHIM ALI tossed in 17 and RONNE READUS rolled a double-double of 16 points and 17 rebounds. He also had three blocks.

The Braves need one win in their final four starts to lock up their second league championship in the last three years.

El Cajon Valley: Syon Hicks 27 (3 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Ibrahim Ali 17 (2 ast, 4 stl), Ronne Readus 16 (17 reb, 3 blk), Dion Dean 9 (2 reb, 4 stl), Brandon Rumley 5 (9 reb), Ricky Garcia 9 (1 reb), Drake Afaisen 2 (3 stl).

Monte Vista: No report.

WEST HILLS 73, MOUNT MIGUEL 45 — Consistency has managed to avoid the Matadors’ game plan this season, and their record, which indicates the Matadors have lost 6 of their last 10, reflects Mount Miguel’s struggles.

Mount Miguel trailed 16-11 out of the gate Tuesday night (Feb. 10) in the Grossmont Hills League opposite West Hills.

“It was a good game for us from start to finish,” said Wolf Pack assistant coach LUCAS ARMSTRONG. “We were up 11 at half and increased it to 28 by the end of the game. We applied pressure and forced a lot turnovers.”

“THOMAS REANEY had a great game for us tonight. He threw in 22 points, grabbed 13 rebounds as well as had four assists and three steals.”

“MARCO OVIES had a nice game passing the ball with eight assists.”

“We protected the rim very well resulting in 12 blocks. Defensively we did a good job holding (DONNELL) PAYNE to six points.”

NATE GILBERT shared the lead with DARIAN NORWOOD with 10 points apiece for Mount Miguel.

West Hills: Thomas Reaney 22 (13 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Bryce Parsons 9 (4 reb, 2 stl), Chris Moyer 8 (7 reb, 3 blk), Ricardo Barajas 8 (4 reb, 2 stl), Austin Alderson 6 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 3 blk), Kyle Ruiz 5 (3 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Marco Ovies 4 (8 ast, 2 stl), Marquell Cool 4 (6 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Sahil Alami 3 (2 reb),Issa Ghandour 2 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Miguel Nava 2 (5 reb, 3 blk) Cameron Barry (1 reb).

Mount Miguel: Nate Gilbert 10 (1 reb), Darian Norwood 10 (6 reb), Taj Tucker 7 (4 reb, 4 ast), Trevon Allen 6 (4 reb, 1 stl), Donnell Payne 6 (1 reb), Ricky Harvey 2 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Trannell Hudson 2 (2 ast), Jay-Von Jones 2 (1 ast), Gary Haskins (3 reb).

CORONADO 57, CHRISTIAN 53 — The Patriots of Christian High buried 11 three-pointers but still came up on the short end of Tuesday’s (Feb. 10) Central League game at Coronado.

JOHNNY PAULSON paced the Patriots with 15 points and 6 rebounds, and JD PARKER netted 14 points while TRAVIS BALLARD punched in 11 points and cleared the glass 12 times.

“We played them close the whole game but could never get the lead,” said Patriots assistant coach TIM BROWN. “If we get a couple of stops, we win the game.”

Christian: Johnny Paulson 15 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), JD Parker 14 (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Travis Ballard 11 (12 reb, 3 stl), Trevor Howell 9 (3 ast, 1 blk), David Jeremiah 2 (2 reb, 2 ast), Kyle Stowers (1 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk).

SANTANA 48, EL CAPITAN 39 — Who says revenge isn’t sweet? Well whoever says this is pretty smart. This was the case Tuesday (Feb 10) as the Santana Sultans took on the El Capitan Vaqueros in a Grossmont Valley League tilt. The Sultans had revenge on their minds as it was in the last meeting between these two teams that the Vaqueros were able to nip the Sultans in overtime 50-47. This time it wouldn’t take any bonus ball to decide the contest as Santana was able to come away with the 48-39 victory.

It was a pretty even first quarter between the two as Santana only led 11-10 after the first. The second period belonged to the Sultans as they raced to a 27-19 halftime lead via a 16-9 scoring advantage.

In the third the Vaqueros were able to outscore the Sultans but still trailed by seven on the scoreboard 37-30. The fourth and final stanza was like the rest as both teams did their best to put up offense but in the end it was the Sultans taking it with an 11-9 advantage.

Leading the way for the Sultans in the win was FRANKIE GUTIERREZ who tallied 13 points.

Despite the setback the Vaqueros remain in third place while the Sultans move out of the cellar and join the logjam at fourth place along with Granite Hills and Monte Vista.

Santana: Frankie Gutierrez 13 (6 reb, 3 ast, 5 stl), Anthony Romero 8 (4 reb, 1 stl), Ryan Bratlien 7 (6 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk), Mitchell Miller 7 (1 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Sage Hicks 5 (2 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Daulton Barry 4 (1 reb), Trent Baugh 2 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Nathan Ball 2.

El Capitan: No report.
— Adam Paul

Three East County teams take on Cancer in Coaches Vs. Cancer games

© East County Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (2-8-15) — In a battle of two of the San Diego Section’s Division 2 heavyweights, Steele Canyon registered a 62-52 knockout over Sweetwater in Saturday’s (Feb. 7) Coaches vs. Cancer Classic at Montgomery High.

The Cougars (16-6) put the game away when they scored nearly half of their points over the Red Devils (14-9) in the third quarter.

Steele Canyon basketball is all about the inside game. DYLAN HAMLETT scored 16 points and grabbed 14 rebounds to lead the Cougars, while DOMINICK WOOD-ANDERSON muscled in 12 points and pulled down 14 rebounds.

AARON PISIONA pitched in 6-for-6 free throws and two threes for 12 points. EMARI BROOKS scored 12 points, all from 3-point distance.

Steele Canyon: Dylan Hamlett 16 (14 reb), Dominick Wood-Anderson 12 (14 reb), Aaron Pisiona 12, Emari Brooks 12, Marcus White 7, Lyndon Newsom 2, Nick Hodge 1.

EL CAJON VALLEY 67, MONTGOMERY 64 — The visiting El Cajon Valley Braves, who are in line for their second Grossmont Valley League championship in three years, held off a late charge by host Montgomery and left town with a key victory in Saturday’s (Feb. 7) Coaches vs. Cancer Classic.

In another close call El Cajon Valley pulled out its ninth straight victory with Saturday’s win over host Montgomery.

The main man for the Braves was RONNE READUS who muscled in 15 points, pounded 16 off the glass and blocked four shots. Four-year starter IBRAHIM ALI tossed in 17 points to pace the Braves, who also got 14 points from SYON HICKS. DRAKE AFAISEN hauled down 9 rebounds to go with five points.

El Cajon Valley: Ibrahim Ali 17 (1 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Ronne Readus 15 (16 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 4 blk), Syon Hicks 14 (4 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Ricky Garcia 9 (1 stl), Drake Afaisen 5 (9 reb, 2 stl), Brandon Rumley 4 (2 reb, 1 stl), Dion Dean 3 (2 reb, 5 stl).

MOUNT MIGUEL 75, OLYMPIAN 56 — DONNELL PAYNE pumped in a season-high 32 points as the Matadors rolled to victory in a key Division 2 contest when they faced Olympian on Saturday (Feb. 7) in the annual Coaches vs. Cancer Classic held at Montgomery High.

As a team Mount Miguel netted 25 of 31 free throws. Payne was 15-for-15. NATE GILBERT scored 22 points and made a pair of treys and 7 of 10 free throws.

“Our game was more than just defense this time,” said Matadors coach JAY ROWLETT. “We were flying around. We took away second chances. If we can play like this all the time, things should really pan out for us.”

Mount Miguel: Donnell Payne 32 (8 reb, 6 ast, 2 stl), Nate Gilbert 22 (7 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Ricky Harvey 7 (5 stl), Taj Tucker 5 (5 ast, 2 stl), Jay-Von Jones 4 (3 reb, 1 stl), Trannell Hudson 3 (1 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Gary Haskins 2 (2 reb), Trevon Allen (3 reb, 1 ast).

Steele Eyes Top of the Hills

By James McHugh
© East County Sports.com
RANCHO SAN DIEGO (2-7-15) — Head coach DEREK STEPHENS has his team focused on the Grossmont Hills League race where Steele Canyon entered the night two games behind Grossmont for the lead.

"We believe we're still in it, it would be nice to keep that number two seed in division two, but we believe we're still in it in the league." Steele Canyon is more "In it" than they could have imagined after a 62-55 victory over Helix on Friday night (Feb. 6) was coupled with a Grossmont loss to West Hills.

The victory, and the Foothillers defeat, place Steele Canyon just a game out of first in the Grossmont Hills League. "We had a good week in practice and I thought all our guys played pretty well tonight. I was pleased with our defense, except maybe that last few minutes there." That last few minutes coach Stephens referred to was a comeback effort by MALIK TAMBWE and the Helix Highlanders, who refused to go away quietly in this one.

At the half Steele Canyon held a steady 36-24 advantage, and was never really challenged with a large scoring run from the Scotties. A one point advantage in the third quarter still saw Helix trailing 38-49. In the fourth quarter Helix looked as though they weren't quite ready to relinquish their number two standing in the Grossmont Hills League so easily.

Three times in the fourth, Helix cut the Steele Canyon lead to five points. With 2:49 to play, a layup by GARY LINSON off a feed from LUKE HOLLOWAY seemed to have Helix on a roll. Steele Canyon missed the front end of a one and one free throw, but a Helix lane violation allowed the Cougars to boost their lead back to six on the following possession.

With 2:12 to play a QRIZJIAH MOBLEY free throw had Helix within five once again. Just 1:46 remained when AARON PISIONA broke the hearts of every Green clad fan in attendance. A shaky pass made its way to EMARI BROOKS who found Pisiona wide open on the left wing for a three point attempt that found the bottom of the net flawlessly and put the Cougars up by eight. JORDAN VELASCO's layup with 49 seconds to play put Helix within five points for the last time and Helix wouldn't get that close again.

Steele Canyon will now turn right around and face a game with enormous playoff implications on Saturday (Feb. 7) at Montgomery High School against Sweetwater. Sweetwater currently holds the fourth seed in the division two power rankings, while Steele Canyon is clutching the number two seed. "The three seed can be tough because in that semi final game, you have to go on the road," Coach Stephens remarked when asked about the playoffs ahead.

Steele Canyon: Dominick Wood-Anderson 19, Dylan Hamlett 13, Marcus White 8, Aaron Pisiona 8, Emari Brooks 6, Tariq Tillman 6, Jordan Johnson 2

Helix: Malik Tambwe 16 (5 reb, 2 ast), Jordan Velasco 13 (4 reb, 6 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Qrizjiah Mobley 11 (4 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Luke Holloway 5 (6 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk), Jaylin Arnold 2 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Gary Linson 8 (7 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Marcus North (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Eisaiah Blair (1 ast), Jumar Wynn (1 blk).

WEST HILLS 55, GROSSMONT 52 — West Hills used a 21-10 second quarter scoring burst Friday night (Feb. 6) on its way to an upset of Grossmont Hills League-leading Grossmont Foothillers.

Led by RICARDO BARAJAS’ game-high 18 points, the Wolf Pack (14-8, 2-3 GHL) remains in the GHL race.

“I was feeling it today,” said Barajas, a 6-foot-2, 180 pound senior. “We needed this game to improve our power ratings standing.”

Barajas hit 7-of-18 shots from the field, including four threes.

It was a slow start to the season for Barajas, who suffered a deep bone bruise when someone landed on his thigh in West Hill’s preseason Alumni Game. It caused the Wolf Pack’s leading scorer to miss four games.

“I got clobbered going for a rebound,” recalled Barajas.

In his first official appearance on the floor this season he scored a season-best 25 points against Patrick Henry.

ISSA GHANDOUR contributed 10 points and one rebound to the Pack’s ledger.

One of the pivotal points of West Hill’s victory over the Foothillers was at the free throw line where the Pack connected on 9-of-10 charity shots.

For Grossmont, TOMMY RUTHERFORD poured in 29 points and yanked down 21 rebounds against the smaller Pack.

Grossmont was tagged with a forfeit due to a clerical error in the first game of the season to Castle Park, which they won 69-36. According to Foothillers coach, FRANK FOGGIANO, the forfeit was self-reported.

West Hills: Ricardo Barajas 18 (1 reb, 1 stl), Issa Ghandour 10 (1 reb), Marco Ovies 7 (1 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Bryce Parsons 6 (3 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Thomas Reaney 6 (7 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Austin Alderson 3 (5 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Kyle Ruiz 3, Chris Moyer 2 (2 reb, 1 blk)

Grossmont: Tommy Rutherford 29 (21 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Jacob Denson 7 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Hunter Gaines 7 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Jacob Niskey 5 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Cameron Henderson 4 (1 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Jeremiah Appleton (1 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl).

GRANITE HILLS 41, EL CAPITAN 35 — It’s been a long, dry spell for the Granite Hills Eagles, but you couldn’t tell it after Friday night’s (Feb. 6) Grossmont Valley League victory over host El Capitan. It was their second win in the last 11 starts.

DAVID SETTERBERG scored a season-high 18 points to pace the Eagles (9-12, 2-5 GVL). He nailed 8 of 14 shots from the floor, including a pair of threes.

ANTONIO READ finished with 11 points, the majority coming on 7-of-8 free throw shooting.

As a team Granite Hills recorded a dozen steals led by Setterberg’s four thefts.

“We played tough tonight,” said Granite Hills coach RANDY ANDERSON, sounding definitely upbeat. “Played good defense and took care of the ball. We only had six turnovers the entire game. I was proud of the kids tonight.”

Granite Hills: David Setterberg 18 (2 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl, 1 blk), Antonio Read 11 (5 reb, 2 stl), Daren Cosio 6 (2 reb, 1 blk, 2 stl), Frankie Lucatuorto 3 (4 reb), Cameron Spitzer (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl).

El Capitan: No report.

VALHALLA 62, MONTE VISTA 58 — Valhalla held off Monte Vista to remain on the heels of front-running El Cajon Valley in the Grossmont Valley League in Friday night’s (Feb. 6) encounter.

The Norsemen trail the Braves by two games with three to play.

JAKE BASSETTE led the Norsemen with 18 points, while COLE HENDERSON chipped in with 12.

Monte Vista opened the third quarter with a 7-0 run to shave Valhalla’s lead to one point. The fourth quarter was a scramble, but a much different game than the last time the teams met. In that game Valhalla knocked down nine three-pointers compared to just two in the rematch.

“There are no easy wins the rest of the way, so we can’t let up,” said Monte Vista coach MIKE TULLY.

SHAI STEVENSON rang up a career-best 18 points – half of them coming on treys. Stevenson also grabbed six rebounds and blocked four shots. DEVRON YOUNG added 13 points and made four rebounds, while SAIYEED MERSHON scored 12 points, five rebounds and three blocks. Guard ADAM WALLACE netted 11 points and snared five rebounds.

Valhalla: Jake Bassette 18, Cole Henderson 12, Jordan Ellis 9, Matthew Sako 8, Jacob Hammett 6, Nathan Yousif 5, Jared Sullivan 2, John Murad 2.

Monte Vista: Shai Stevenson 18 (6 reb, 1 ast, 4 blk, 2 stl), Devron Young 13 (4 reb, 3 stl, 3 ast, 1 blk), Saiyeed Mershon 12 (5 reb, 2 stl, 3 blk), Adam Wallace 11 (5 reb, 2 stl, 2 ast), Terry Bone 4 (5 reb, 1 stl, 2 ast), Tre Owens (4 reb, 2 stl, 3 ast).

EL CAJON VALLEY 58, SANTANA 53 — The El Cajon Valley Braves went to Santee Friday (Feb. 6) hoping to take a step closer to winning the Grossmont Valley league title against the Santana Sultans, and were able to complete the task with a 58-53 victory.

It was a little shaky in the first period as the Sultans who were coming off the upset of Monte Vista in their previous game gave the Braves a scare by knotting the score at 12-12.

The Braves, however, had other ideas as they jumped all over Santana in the second period, outscoring the Sultans 22-6 and taking a 34-18 advantage at the break. The second half started with the Braves extending their lead to 47-26 after three periods of play.

Santana despite being down by such a large lead had other ideas for the final stanza and tried one last time to make the comeback. However they ran out of gas as the Braves were able to hold off the furious Sultan comeback, despite being outscored 27-11 in the final period.

“It is hard to keep guys focused and on task when we get such a big lead,” said El Cajon Valley coach MARTY ELLIS.

Helping the Braves keep their pace for first place was the trio of SYON HICKS who led in scoring with 20 points, RICKY GARCIA had 12 points all on four treys and IBRAHIM ALI with 10 points. The big man in the middle, RONNE READUS, did his thing leading the way with 16 rebounds.

Pacing the Sultans scoring wise was the duo of FRANKIE GUTIERREZ who led the way with 15 points and DAULTON BARRY who finished with 13 points.

El Cajon Valley: Syon Hicks 20 (5 reb, 4 stl, 1 ast), Ricky Garcia 12 (2 reb, 2 stl), Ibrahim Ali 10 (7 reb, 3 stl, 2 ast), Dion Dean 6 (5 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Ronne Readus 6 (16 reb, 5 stl, 3 blk), Drake Afaisen 4 (5 reb, 4 stl), Brandon Rumley (4 reb).

Santana: Frankie Gutierrez 15 (6 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Daulton Barry 13 (5 reb, 1 stl), Ryan Bratlien 8 (7 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk), Sage Hicks 8 (3 reb), Anthony Romero 6 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Trent Baugh 4 (1 ast, 1 stl), Mitchell Miller 3 (8 reb, 1 stl).

CHRISTIAN 61, CRAWFORD 46 — Christian crashed past Crawford in a Central League game Friday (Feb. 6) as four Patriots scored in double figures.

TREVOR HOWELL ended with a game high 16 points including two 3-pointers and four rebounds. TRAVIS BALLARD scored 14 points, hauled down 6 rebounds and blocked three shots. He was 8-for-12 from the free throw line.

DAVID JEREMIAH finished with 13 points, six rebounds and a steal.

The Patriots put the game away with a 24-18 run in the fourth quarter.

Christian: Trevor Howell 16 (4 reb, 1 ast), Travis Ballard 14 (6 reb, 3 blk), David Jeremiah 13 (6 reb, 1 stl)), Kyle Stowers 11 (5 ast),Grant Taylor 3, Johnny Paulson 1 (6 reb, 1 blk).

FOOTHILLS CHRISTIAN 75, BISHOP’S 39 — Order Restored.

Things were laid out so nicely in the Coastal League. Foothills Christian and Army-Navy entered league play as two of the top 10 teams in San Diego County. Foothills Christian had not lost a game on the court to a team ranked outside of the top 10 in any of the states they resided in. Then Bishop's came along to spoil the party.

The La Jolla based Knights knocked off a Foothills squad missing its most potent weapon in junior T.J. LEAF. A week later Bishop's struck gold again when Richard Polanco went down for Army-Navy with a 104 degree fever and a Bishop's win saw them atop the Coastal instead of the two top five teams that resided in their league.

Friday night (Feb. 6) Foothills Christian put an end to any rumblings about who the favorite is in the Coastal League with a 75-39 thumping on Bishop's home court. The 36 point drubbing was the worst Bishop's loss since a 39 point loss to El Camino (49-88) in November of 2012. Two nights ago (Wed., Feb. 4) Foothills handed Francis Parker its worst loss in more than 10 years (77-44).

Foothills was led by Leaf who scored 29 points to go along with 13 rebounds and six blocks. LUIS SALGADO continued his ascent up the CIF chart for career three pointers by landing 4 of 5 from above the arc and hauled in 8 rebounds and five steals for good measure. JORDAN STARR also put in a solid effort for the Knights, dropping eight points on 4-of-4 shooting.

Foothills was able to contain Eric Yu who was on fire from deep last time the two teams met. Yu was limited to six points, including two late free throws and no points in the first half. Justin Woodley was also rendered ineffective on the offense end for Bishop's, hitting just one shot from the field on the night and missing both free throw attempts.

While the absence of Leaf hurt the Foothills offense in recent weeks, his presence on defense was almost more noticeable. Bishop's regularly saw open looks from outside the last time the Knights and Knights met, but were looking for desperation shots with regularity on this night. Foothills will be tough to stop moving forward if Leaf is healthy, and right now he is looking healthier than at any stretch in the past several weeks.

Foothills Christian: T.J. Leaf 29 (13 reb, 5 ast, 6 blk, 1 stl) Luis Salgado 13 (8 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl, 2 blk) Nikko Paranada 10 (5 ast, 1 stl) Javier Guerrero 9 (1 ast) Jordan Starr 8 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk) Omajae Smith 4 (7 reb, 2 ast, 3 blk) Jordan VanOmmering 2 (1 ast, 1 stl)
— James McHugh

Gilbert and the Matadors get the horses back in the barn

© East County Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (2-6-15) — NATE GILBERT scored 18 points – the majority coming on five 3-pointers – all coming in the second quarter to guide Mount Miguel to a 62-51 non-league victory over Crawford Thursday night (Feb. 5) in the Colts’ Corral.

The Matadors (10-11) tallied 27 points in that period alone to take a 42-28 halftime lead and then cruised to the finish line.

DONNELL PAYNE added a game high 27 points, including a pair of treys, and 7 of 17 free throw shooting. He also led the Matadors on the boards by collecting 11 caroms and also posted two steals.

“This was a good win for us coming off that tough loss (to Grossmont),” said Mount Miguel coach JAY ROWLETT.

The Matadors, who have won only two of their last seven starts, will play at Montgomery vs. Olympian at 1:20 Saturday (Feb. 7) in the Coaches vs. Cancer tournament on the Aztecs’ court.

Other games in that tournament include El Cajon Valley against host Montgomery at 11 a.m., and Steele Canyon vs. Sweetwater at 3 p.m., also at Montgomery.

Mount Miguel: Donnell Payne 27 (11 reb, 2 stl), Nate Gilbert 21 (4 reb, 3 stl), Trannell Hudson 4 (1 reb), Taj Tucker 3 (2 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Ricky Harvey 3 (2 reb, 1 ast), Trevon Allen 2 (2 reb, 1 ast), Gary Haskins 2 (1 reb).

Sultans escape with first league victory

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (2-4-15) — In one of the more exciting games of Tuesday evening’s (Feb. 3) Grossmont Valley League play and one of the bigger upsets, the Santana Sultans were able to escape from the lions’ den at the buzzer with the victory over Monte Vista 55-53 and claim their first league win, pulling out a barn burner of a game.

The first quarter belonged to the Sultans as they were able to jump out to a 23-12 advantage. The second quarter was a different story as Monte Vista outrebounded and outscored the Sultans 19-14 to pull within 37-31 at the break. The second half started out with a very close scoring as Monte Vista edged the Sultans 11-10 but still trailed 47-42 at the end of the third quarter.

The final period was also close as it was in favor of the Monarchs 11-8 but the game itself came down to the final seconds as the Monarchs’ ADAM WALLACE made both ends of a one-and-one with a few seconds remaining. Santana had one final chance to win the game or the game would go into overtime.

Monte Vista decided to full court press the Sultans hoping that they wouldn’t be able to do anything but Santana had other ideas. The Sultans were able to inbound the ball and break the full court press due to the quickness of FRANKIE GUTIERREZ, who was able to use his court prowess to get the ball into the hands of RYAN BRATLIEN who laid it in at the buzzer to send the Sultan fans into a frenzy and home happy.

DAULTON BARRY led the Sultans in scoring with 13 points while SAGE HICKS chipped in 11 points.

Santana: Daulton Barry 13 (2 reb, 1 ast), Sage Hicks 11 (5 reb, 1 stl), Mitchell Miller 9 (6 reb, 1 stl), Ryan Bratlien 8 (5 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Frankie Gutierrez 4 (5 reb, 8 ast), Austin Miller 4 (2 reb), Trent Baugh 4 (1 reb, 4 ast), Anthony Romero 2 (3 reb).

Monte Vista: No report.

EL CAJON VALLEY 54, GRANITE HILLS 44 — El Cajon Valley rolled its record to 5-0 and 15-5 overall in the Grossmont Valley League race by knocking off Granite Hills in Tuesday’s (Feb. 3) Grossmont Valley League game.

Following Tuesday contests, Valhalla and El Capitan have put the squeeze on El Cajon Valley, heading into the second round of GVL play.

IBRAHIM ALI provided the spark for the Braves by hitting 10 field goals and 7 of 11 free throws to total 27 points. The Braves’ playmaker grabbed nine rebounds, dished four assists and notched two steals.

RONNE READUS rolled a double-double of 10 points and 14 rebounds plus four blocks and two steals for El Cajon Valley, which won eight games in a row.

For Granite Hills ANTONIO READ led the way with 18 points, including four 3-pointers and five rebounds, while FRANKIE LUCATUORTO added 10 points and five rebounds.

MICHAEL LEDESMA led the Eagles on the boards with 14 rebounds.

“We hung close, just shot poorly in the second half,” said Eagles coach RANDY ANDERSON. “It was a 3-point game at halftime. I thought we played hard on the road against a team with a good record. I liked our effort.”

“We have the toughest part of the schedule ahead of us,” said Braves coach MARTY ELLIS. “We go as far as Ali takes us.”

El Cajon Valley: Ibrahim Ali 27 (9 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Ronne Readus 10 (14 reb, 2 stl, 4 blk), Syon Hicks 4 (4 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Brandon Rumley 3 (8 reb, 2 stl), Dion Dean (4 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Drake Afaisen (5 reb, 2 stl), Damaje Hodges (3 reb, 2 stl).

Granite Hills: Antonio Read 18 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Frankie Lucatuorto 10 (5 reb), Michael Ledesma 4 (14 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), David Setterberg 4 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Cameron Spitzer 3 (7 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Darien Cosio 3 (2 reb, 2 stl), Erin Swinson 2 (2 reb), Noor Noory (1 reb, 2 ast), Wyatt Mason (1 reb).

STEELE CANYON 63, WEST HILLS 58 — DOMINICK WOOD-ANDERSON pumped in 20 points and corralled 14 rebounds as the Cougars clipped the Wolf Pack in a battle for the Grossmont Hills League third place slot.

JACOB HAMMETT added 10 points and 11 rebounds for the Cougars (2-2, 14-6).

Steele Canyon will try to spring an upset over Helix on Friday (Feb. 6) to create a tie in the GHL.

“Another tough loss for the Wolf Pack. All three of our losses have been very close,” said West Hills assistant coach LUCAS ARMSTRONG. “The game was back and forth all night.

“We held a four point lead at the half, tied after three quarters and lost the fourth by four. We got hurt on the boards, giving up 25 offensive rebounds.

“Our kids battled all night though and never gave up,” Armstrong noted.

“MARCO OVIES had a great night scoring 16 points. BRYCE PARSONS threw in 13 points. We shot 50 percent from the field, just got out rebounded and turned the ball over too much. We’ll look to bounce back Friday at Grossmont.”

THOMAS REANEY led the Wolf Pack on the boards with nine rebounds.

Steele Canyon: Dominick Wood-Anderson 20 (14 reb), Dylan Hammett 10 (11 reb), Emari Brooks 9, Robert Teo 8, Aaron Pisiona 7, Marcus White 7, Jordan Johnson 2.

West Hills: Marco Ovies 16 (1 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Bryce Parsons 13 (4 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Cameron Barry 7 (1 reb, 1 ast), Marquell Cool 5 (1 reb), Thomas Reaney 4 (9 reb, 4 stl, 2 blk), Austin Alderson 4 (7 reb, 2 ast), Issa Ghandour 4 (1 stl), Chris Moyer 2 (4 reb, 1 blk), Miguel Nava 2, Ricardo Barajas 1 (2 reb), Kyle Ruiz (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk).

GROSSMONT 70, MOUNT MIGUEL 55 — The Foothillers dribbled past visiting Mount Miguel in Tuesday’s (Feb. 3) Grossmont Hills League contest that permitted Grossmont to maintain the GHL lead with a 4-0 record.

“It was close almost the whole time,” said Foothillers coach FRANK FOGGIANO. “It wasn’t like we ran way from them. We didn’t. It was pretty much balanced throughout the game.

“It was only a five point game at halftime,” Foggiano continued. “In the 4th quarter we slowed down and were a little patient. Then we got the ball inside to TOMMY (RUTHERFORD) in the 4th quarter.

“JEREMIAH APPLETON (12 points five assists), CAMERON HENDERSON (12 points, including four 3-pointers) and JACOB DENSON (career high 21 points, including a trey) all scored in double figures. That’s pretty good when I have four of my five starters score in double figures.”

Rutherford was in foul trouble the first two periods, and Denson picked up the pace. Rutherford recovered in the fourth quarter to contribute 17 points, 17 rebounds and three assists.

“We were up two points with two minutes left in the third quarter and then they went on a monster run,” said Mount Miguel coach JAY ROWLETT. “It’s a slow, quick game playing Grossmont.”

The Matadors were led by DONNELL PAYNE’s 24 points and NATE GILBERT’s 17 points and six rebounds.

Grossmont: Jacob Denson 21 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Tommy Rutherford 17 (17 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Jeremiah Appleton 12 (3 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), Cameron Henderson 12 (4 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Jacob Niskey 5 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Hunter Gaines 3 (1 reb).

Mount Miguel: Donnell Payne 24 (4 reb), Nate Gilbert 17 (6 reb), Ricky Harvey 6 (1 stl), Taj Tucker 4 (3 ast, 2 stl), Trevon Allen 4 (1 reb), Gary Haskins 1 (reb), Jay-Von Jones (4 reb).

VALHALLA 61, EL CAPITAN 56 — The Norsemen knocked off El Capitan Tuesday (Feb. 3) to tighten the race in the Grossmont Valley League, leaving both teams only one game behind front-running El Cajon Valley.

COLE HENDERSON, who stands third in East County scoring, averaging 17.6 ppg, led the Norsemen with 26 points, followed by JORDAN ELLIS and JOHN MURAD with 11 points apiece.

“El Cap came out and jumped on us 16-7 to start the game,” said Norsemen coach KEITH JACKSON. “We played much better as a team the next three quarters. Our guys shared the ball on offense and did a better job guarding. I was proud of their effort.”

Valhalla: Cole Henderson 26, Jordan Ellis 11, John Murad 11, Jacob Hammett 9, Jake Bassette 2, Matthew Sako 2.

El Capitan: No report.

CHRISTIAN 80, CLAIREMONT 52 — Five Patriots scored in double figures to lead Christian to victory in Tuesday’s (Feb. 3) Central League contest with Clairemont.

JOHNNY PAULSON led the Patriots with 18 points on six 3-pointers as Christian crushed the Chieftains.

TRAVIS BALLARD added 17 points and nine rebounds, while GRANT TAYLOR added 13, DAVID JEREMIAH contributed 10 points, seven rebounds and five assists and NICK SEXTON scored 10 points as Christian scrambled to remain in Central League contention.

TREVOR HOWELL dished eight assists for the Patriots.

Christian: Johnny Paulson 18 (1 ast, 1 stl), Travis Ballard 17 (9 reb, 2 ast), Grant Taylor 13 (1 reb, 2 ast), David Jeremiah 10 (7 reb, 5 ast), Nick Sexton 10 (3 reb, 1 stl), Layne Larson 6, Dominic Bristol 4 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Kyle Stowers (3 reb, 5 ast, 3 blk), Trevor Howell 2 (8 ast), JD Parker (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).