2014-15 EAST COUNTY PREP GIRLS BASKETBALL

Branch + Harrison + Pierce = Win for Matadors

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (12-31-14) — Mount Miguel came out in style against Great Oak of Temecula Tuesday (Dec. 30) in a So Cal Holiday Prep Classic Premier Division game, securing a 54-44 victory.

The Matadors outscored the Wolfpack across the board.

ZARIA BRANCH led the charge with 19 points, including hitting 6 of 7 free throws. KAMREE HARRISON hit three 3s.

ROZLYN PIERCE was a beast on the boards with 14 rebounds and three blocks to go along with eight points.

“We’re just starting to find our game,” said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. “We’re trying to be consistently consistent.”

Mount Miguel: Zaria Branch 19 (6 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Kamree Harrison 9 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Rozlyn Pierce 8 (14 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 3 blk), Laila Smith (7 (5 reb, 4 ast), Satera Bates 4 (4 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Brooklyn Miller (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

CHRISTIAN 45, GROSSMONT 44 — BROOKE OWENS led the Patriots in scoring in Tuesday’s (Dec. 30) Crawford Christmas Tournament, while KATE WNEK added 12 points to Christian’s totals.

MADDIE BAGDASARIAN and TAYLOR MILLER each grabbed 11 boards for the Patriots.

“We stopped the 3-point shooting game and got the win,” explained Christian coach TIFFANY GILES.

Christian: Brooke Owens 13 (2 reb, 3 ast), Kate Wnek 12 (1 reb, 1 stl, 1 ast), Maddie Bagdasarian 9 (11 reb), Taylor Miller 6 (11 reb, 1 blk), Sage Salacup 5 (4 reb), Alssa Rothrock (2 reb), Natalie Caddell (1 reb 1 stl).

Grossmont: No scoring or stats were reported for Grossmont.

SD-SOUTHWEST 35, EL CAJON VALLEY 34 — El Cajon Valley trailed SD-Southwest by just one point in the first quarter of Tuesday’s (Dec. 30) Crawford Christmas Tournament and rallied in the second period to lead 16-11.

They played even in the third quarter but lost steam in the fourth.

LEANNA WATSON led the Braves in scoring with NINWEY ESHO following with eight points, NASHEA LAMPKIN with seven and DANIELLE STOKES with six.

El Cajon Valley: Leanna Watson 9, Ninwey Esho 8, Nashea Lampkin 7, Danielle Stokes 6, Tatisha Clemons 2, Mary Grace Ronquillo 2.

POWAY 33, WEST HILLS 27 — West Hills came out on the bottom of Tuesday’s (Dec. 30) So Cal Holiday Prep Classic NCAA Division contest with Poway without a single person scoring in double digits. Even more amazing, only 2 assists were rendered all evening.

“We played great defense and very poor offense,” said Wolf Pack coach RYAN KINSER. “Overall it was a very good tournament but we need to fix some things moving forward.”

West Hills: Bailey Albers 6 (5 reb, 2 stl 1 blk), Megan Scott 5 (3 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Vivian Panella 4 (3 reb), Maya Clemons 3 (3 reb, 1 stl), Jessica Fondas 3 (1 stl), Carly Raley 2 (4 reb, 1 stl), Ali Lenhoff 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Tila Whitaker 2 (1 blk), Clarrisa Holder (1 reb), Kerrie Daniels (1 reb).

DEL NORTE 49, STEELE CANYON 27 — Steele Canyon led Del Norte 8-5 in the first quarter of Tuesday’s (Dec. 30) So Cal Holiday Prep Classic Prep Division contest, but the North County team pulled steadily ahead thereafter.

JULES LOIBL led the Cougars with 9 points and ASHLEY TAVIZON followed with six.

Steele Canyon: Jules Loibl 9, Ashley Tavizon 6, Nicki DePaola 4, Isabella Welch 4, Dai’re Watkins 2, Sabrina Dozier 2.

LINCOLN 47, CHRISTIAN 29 — The Christian Patriots stayed within one point of Lincoln in Tuesday’s (Dec. 30) Crawford Christmas Tournament, but the Colts pulled steadily ahead through the following three quarters.

BROOKE OWENS shared the team scoring lead of 12 points with MADDIE BAGDASARIAN. TAYLOR MILLER rolled a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds for the Patriots.

Christian: Brooke Owens 12 (3 stl, 1 ast), Maddie Bagdasarian 12 (3 stl, 1 ast), Taylor Miller 10 (10 reb, 1 stl), Kate Wnek 4 (3 reb, 3 stl), Hayley Robinson 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Natalie Caddell (4 reb, 1 ast), Alyssa Rothrock (1 reb, 1 stl).

CANYON CREST 53, VALHALLA 31 — No further information was provided for this So Cal Holiday Prep Classic Prep Division game.

HILLTOP 51, SANTANA 32 — No further information was provided for this Bonita Optimist Tournament game.

Wolf Pack shutout in first, still get the W

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (12-30-14) — It’s unlikely that West Hills has ever played a first quarter of basketball without scoring a point, but such was the case in Monday’s (Dec. 29) So Cal Holiday Prep Classic NCAA Division game.

One can only imagine the shock the fans as well as the team felt.

They picked it up and played even with nine points to match Sonora in the second quarter, then dropped the ball again in the third quarter. Fortunately it all came together for the Wolf Pack in the fourth quarter and they managed to squeak one by for the 34-33 win.

"We played a horrible first half offensively but played great defense which kept us in the game," said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. "The girls came out in the second half with a lot more energy and played a great third quarter."

"I’m proud of the girls for bouncing back after such a rough start!"

West Hills hosts Poway on Tuesday (Dec. 30) at 11 a.m. in the tournament semifinal.

West Hills: Bailey Albers 13 (5 reb, 5 stl), Maya Clemons 2 (2 reb, 2 stl), Jessica Fondas (1 reb, 2 stl), Vivian Panella 7 (1 reb, 1 stl), Tila Whittaker 2, Clarrisa Holder (1 reb, 1 ast), Carly Raley 2 (8 reb, 4 stl, 2 blk), Megan Scott 8 (3 reb, 2 ast, 7 stl), Kerrie Daniels 2 (2 reb, 1 ast).

VALLEY CENTER 43, VALHALLA 40 — Valhalla held their own against Valley Center in Monday’s (Dec. 29) So Cal Holiday Prep Classic Prep Division contest, playing with just enough pizzazz to make the Jaguars nervous, but not quite taking the trophy home.

"It was a close game – they hit two threes at the end of the game that made a difference," said Norsemen coach MARC CARTER. "With 1.9 seconds left we tried for a 3 and missed."

"I’m ecstatic that the girls played hard. (Valley Center) had two bigs and they were scoring inside. We need to work on boxing out better and have to execute a little better."

TIANA SILVER led the Norsemen with 23 points, including one three and 4-for-5 at the free throw line.

Valhalla: Tiana Silver 23, Kourtney Taylor 8, Lisa Damman 4, Bianca Gorges 2.

LJCD 62, MOUNT MIGUEL 43 — No matter where or when Mount Miguel plays La Jolla Country Day, the Matadors struggle against the Torreys. Such was the case in Monday’s (Dec. 29) So Cal Holiday Prep Classic Premier Division.

ZARIA BRANCH popped in 16 points to lead the Matadors but Mount Miguel could not catch up as the Torreys claimed a 19-3 fourth quarter advantage.

The Torreys pounded the offensive glass for 16 rebounds.

"We just flat gave up too many scoring chances," said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL.

LJCD put the game away with a 28-6 scoring run during the final 10 minutes.

Mount Miguel: Zaria Branch 16 (3 reb, 1 ast), Brooklyn Miller 9, Kamree Harrison 6 (2 reb, 4 ast), Satera Bates 6 (1 ast, 1 stl), Rozlyn Pierce 2 (5 reb, 1 stl, Camara Douglas 2 (3 reb), 2 blk), Laila Smith 2 (2 ast, 2 stl).

MIRA MESA 37, STEELE CANYON 36 — Another 1-point game … there were a lot of those today. Steele Canyon led 16-14 at the half and had a strong third quarter. But that fourth quarter saw the lead steadily dwindle.

"We were in the lead going into the fourth quarter," recalled Cougars coach PETER RUIZ. "We had a 1-point lead and fouled them, and they missed both free throws – we were sitting at 36-35. We got fouled on the inbound and missed both of our free throws."

Steele Canyon: Jules Loibl 12, Nicki DePaola 9, Ashley Tavizon 5, Isabella Welch 4, Victoria Bott 2, Shelby Johnson 2, Dai’re Watkins 2.

SAN YSIDRO 41, GROSSMONT 38 — The Foothillers went up 10-7 in the first quarter of Monday’s (Dec. 29) Crawford Christmas Tournament, faltering a little in the second quarter but regaining the lead in the third 25-22.

The fourth quarter, however, saw the lead slip away and with it the victory.

"It’s kind of frustrating . . . we have a team full of freshmen and sophomores so we make young mistakes," said Foothillers coach GRACE CAMPBELL. "We’re a great 3-point shooting team but today our shots just didn’t fall. I think we’ll be able to compete in league. I’m very optimistic about our chances."

SILAS connected on three treys, while HENDERSON and MARTINA TOMA scored two triples apiece.

Grossmont: Henderson 12 (2 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Silas 9 (1 reb), Martina Toma 7 (4 reb, 3 ast, 6 stl), Theresa Mapp 4 (5 reb, 3 stl), Halcott 2 (6 reb, 3 blk), Turner 2, Emily Barnes 2 (5 reb),

BISHOP GORMAN 77, HELIX 41, — Helix met a buzz saw Monday (Dec. 29) when they met Bishop Gorman in the So Cal Holiday Prep Classic Premier Division.

"They are a top team out of Vegas," noted Highlanders coach PATRICK TABOR. "We were pretty much outmatched but my girls actually played a good game. They played hard in the first half and then played even harder in the second."

"I’m proud of them. They fought and they did things that I asked the to do."

The Highlanders were held to single digits but they did manage three 3s – one by SHIRAH HANCOCK, one by CAMRYN OWENS and one by TALIAH HOOKER.

The team played without their scoring leader BRIAJUNAE SHEPARD who did not play for personal family reasons.

Helix: Camryn Owens 9, Danielle Simmons 7, Irma Ealy 7, Shirah Hancock 5, Taliah Hooker 5, Destini Anderson 3, Raeshondra Dike’ 2, Kaitlyn Keys 2, Deborah Worthey 1.

CRAWFORD 39, EL CAJON VALLEY 33 — Playing in the Crawford Christmas Tournament on Monday (Dec. 29) the El Cajon Valley Braves gave battle throughout the contest.

A slow start put the Braves back by four points and they never quite managed to take the lead until the fourth quarter when they outscored Crawford 16-11.

In that quarter LEANNA WATSON bagged 8 points and DANIELLE STOKES tossed in seven. Watson finished with 14 points.

POINT LOMA 46, CHRISTIAN 33 — Christian took the lead in the early quarters and led 22-19 by halftime of Monday’s (Dec. 29) Crawford Christmas Tournament.

Point Loma, however, crept forward in the third quarter and finished strong in the fourth.

MADDIE BAGDASARIAN led Christian with 10 points and five rebounds, while KATE WNEK tossed in nine.

TAYLOR MILLER cleared 12 boards to outrebound the rest of the players on both teams.

Christian: Maddie Bagdasarian 10 (5 reb, 1 stl), Kate Wnek 9 (3 reb, 2 ast), Taylor Miller 6 (12 reb, 1 ast), Brooke Owens 5 (2 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Sage Salacup 3 (1 ast, 2 stl), Alyssa Rothrock (4 reb), Natalie Caddell (2 reb, 1 stl), Hayley Robinson (1 stl).

Highlanders come out on top in see-saw affair

© East County Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (12-28-14) — The Oak Park Wolfpack from Temecula and the Helix Highlanders played a see-saw affair on Saturday (Dec. 27), with Helix coming out on top 47-42 in the So Cal Holiday Prep Classic Premier Division contest held at Francis Parker.

Helix got the early lead with a four point advantage in the first quarter and advanced it to 26-21 by halftime. The two teams played even through the rest of the game, scoring 11 points apiece in the third stanza and 10 each in the fourth.

BRIAJUNAE SHEPARD led the Highlanders with 20 points – nine of them coming on three 3s.

Helix: Briajunae Shepard 20, Shirah Hancock 7, Danielle Simmons 4, Camryn Owens 8, Irma Ealy 6, Kaitlyn Keys 2.

MANHATTAN BEACH MIRA COSTA 49, MOUNT MIGUEL 46 — The powerhouse Mustangs from Manhattan Beach met Mount Miguel Saturday (Dec. 27) in the So Cal Holiday Prep Classic Premier Division in Spring Valley and almost, but not quite lost to the Matadors.

The Mustangs led 27-21 at the half and had a four point advantage at the end of three quarters. Mount Miguel outscored them by one point but it wasn’t quite enough for a "W."

"We’re playing better," said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. "Mira Costa is a really good team. We had opportunities to beat them tonight. We’re playing better now. I thought this was the best defensive game we’ve played this year. I feel more confident how we’ll be like at the end of the year."

Mount Miguel: Kamree Harrison 22 (1 reb, 4 ast), Zaria Branch 11 (3 reb, 9 ast, 3 stl), Brooklyn Miller 9 (3 reb), Rozlyn Pierce 2 (17 reb, 6 blk, 1 stl), Satera Bates 2 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Laila Smith (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

WEST HILLS 35, LA SALLE 29 — The Wolf Pack of West Hills came out strong in Saturday’s (Dec. 27) So Cal Holiday Prep Classic NCAA Division contest, leading 13-5 in the first quarter.

That advantage stretched to 21-16 by halftime. West Hills maintained the lead by a slim margin at the end of the third quarter and finished strong down the stretch.

"We got a good defensive effort, did a nice job on their best player," observed West Hills coach RYAN KINSER.

"(BAILEY) ALBERS played well again and we got much needed balanced scoring."

Albers led all scorers with 17 points and six rebounds, while MEGAN SCOTT added nine points and MAYA CLEMONS chipped in with eight.

West Hills: Bailey Albers 17 (6 reb, 2 stl), Megan Scott 9 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Maya Clemons 8, Vivian Panella 6 (2 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Carly Raley 2 (4 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl, 1 blk), Kerrie Daniels 2 (2 reb), Jessica Fondas (4 reb), Ali Lenhoff (1 reb, 2 stl), Tila Whitaker (2 reb).

VENICE 62, STEELE CANYON 15 — This was a lopsided contest in Saturday’s (Dec. 27) So Cal Holiday Prep Classic Prep Division.

Venice was too powerful for the Cougars, scoring 10 treys en route to the victory.

Steele Canyon will play Mira Mesa on Monday (Dec. 29) at Bishop’s at 2 p.m.

Steele Canyon: Ashley Tavizon 4, Nicki DePaola 4, Isabella Welch 4, Sabrina Dozier 2, Jules Loibl 1.

VALHALLA 42, PALMDALE 35 — The Valhalla Norsemen went toe-to-toe with the Knight Hawks from Palmdale in Saturday’s (Dec. 27) So Cal Holiday Prep Classic Prep Division, and wound up taking home the (mythical) trophy.

After a sparkling start in the first quarter where the Norsemen scored 19-10, they went in the tank in the second, scoring zero points to Palmdale’s nine.

But they regained their composure in the third quarter with an 11-2 scoring advantage and held on in the fourth for the victory, giving first year Norsemen girls’ basketball coach MARC CARTER his first win at Valhalla.

Valhalla: Tiana Silver 18, Alexandra Somo 4, Damman 4.

CHRISTIAN 49, SAN YSIDRO 22 — The Christian Patriots logged another one in the win column as they overcame San Ysidro in Saturday’s (Dec. 27) Crawford Christmas Tournament action.

Christian edged San Ysidro 11-10 in the first quarter and 7-6 in the second, then went on a 20-4 run in the third quarter to put the game out of reach of their opponents.

BROOKE OWENS led the Patriots with 17 points, while TAYLOR MILLER added 12 and MADDIE BAGDASARIAN chipped in with 10.

Christian: Brooke Owens 17, Taylor Miller 12, Maddie Bagdasarian 10, Kate Wnek 6, Natalie Caddell 2.

CLAIREMONT 37, EL CAJON VALLEY 27 — Clairemont got the early lead on the Braves in Saturday’s (Dec. 27) Crawford Christmas Tournament, and didn’t let up for the rest of the first half.

El Cajon Valley rallied in the fourth quarter, scoring basket for basket but it was too little too late.

DANIELLE STOKES led the Braves with 10 points, while NINWEY ESHO added six more.

El Cajon Valley: Danielle Stokes 10, Ninwey Esho 6, Leanna Watson 4, Mary Grace Ronquillo 3, Nashea Lampkin 2, Tatisha Clemons 2.

LINCOLN 39, GROSSMONT 36 — No report was received for this Crawford Christmas Tournament game.

Down a dozen, Matadors fight back to play double bonus basketball

By Bill Dickens
© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (12-27-14) — Mount Miguel registered a double overtime victory over visiting Valencia, 56-54 in Saturday’s (Dec. 26) So Cal Holiday Prep Classic Premier Division.

The 6-5 Matadors were down by 12 points in the fourth quarter, putting on a late surge in the final five minutes, scoring nine points to push the game into extra frames.

It was a scrap after that as each team scored four points in the first overtime.

The Matadors finally pushed in front on four points by SATERA BATES, who finished with 16 points.

ZARIA BRANCH led the Matadors with 20 points, the majority coming on four 3-pointers.

KAMREE HARRISON pumped in 15 points, including a pair of treys to help bolster the Matadors’ assault.

Mount Miguel: Zaria Branch 20 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Satera Bates 16 (7 reb, 3 stl, 4 blk), Kamree Harrison 15 (2 reb, 4 ast, 2 blk), Rozlyn Pierce 5 (8 reb, 1 st, 3 blk), Brooklyn Miller (4 reb, 1 stl), Laila Smith (4 ast), Camara Douglas (2 reb).

WEST HILLS 50, DOWNEY 37 — West Hills’ BAILEY ALBERS scored a team high 21 points and VIVIAN PANELLA added 16 in Saturday’s (Dec. 26) opening round of the So Cal Holiday Prep Classic NCAA Division contest.

The Wolf Pack jumped out early in the first quarter but faltered a bit in the second. They led 19-15 at the half and dominated the third and fourth quarters.

"BAILEY ALBERS and VIVIAN PANELLA both played well today," noted West Hills coach RYAN KINSER.

"It was a good defensive effort but we need to be better on the boards if we plan on advancing."

West Hills: Bailey Albers 21 (6 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Vivian Panella 16 (3 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Jessica Fondas 5 (3 reb), Megan Scott 2 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl 1 blk), Tiffany Nugyen 2 (3 reb), Clarrisa Holder 2 (1 ast), Tila Whitaker 1 (3 reb, 2 stl), Carly Raley 1 (1 reb, 1 stl), Kerrie Daniels (3 reb), Ali Lenhoff (1 reb, 1 ast), Maya Clemons (1 reb).

HORIZON 68, HELIX 63 — DESTINI ANDERSON led Helix with 13 points in Saturday’s (Dec. 26) opening round of the So Cal Holiday Prep Classic Premier Division contest, but the Highlanders came up short in the fourth quarter.

DANIELLE SIMMONS scored 11 points for Helix, while SHIRAH HANCOCK AND BRIAJUNAE SHEPARD added nine points apiece.

"It was a really close game between two good teams,’ observed Helix coach PATRICK TABOR. "We just couldn’t finish. Our team has a problem getting 50-50 balls."

Helix: Destini Anderson 13 Danielle Simmons 11, Shirah Hancock 9, Briajunae Shepard 9, Camryn Owens 8, Irma Ealy 6, Raeshondra Dike’ 5, Deborah Worthey 2.

RANCHO BUENA VISTA 52, STEELE CANYON 42 — Steele Canyon met Rancho Buena Vista in Saturday’s (Dec. 26) opening round of the So Cal Holiday Prep Classic FIBA Division. The Longhorns led the first quarter 14-9 but the Cougars closed it to 21-20, trailing by one point at the half.

The third quarter it was all RBV as the Longhorns led by 20-4. Steele Canyon clawed its way back with an 18-11 fourth quarter but it wasn’t enough.

"It was close up to the half then the wheels came off a little bit," said Cougars coach PETER RUIZ. "We had mental breakdowns in the third quarter."

"ASHLEY TAVIZON came alive in the fourth quarter – she scored three 3-pointers and a bucket for 11 points in that quarter."

Steele Canyon: Ashley Tavizon 16 (6 ast, 2 stl), Sabrina Dozier 7 (2 reb), Victoria Bott 4 (1 blk), Nicki DePaola 3 (2 reb), Dei’re Watkins 2 (1 stl), Shelby Johnson 2 (1 ast, 1 blk), Isabella Welch 1 (2 reb, 1 stl), Victoria Ethridge (4 stl), Marie Estavillo (1 reb).

LAGUNA BEACH 49, VALHALLA 24 — No further information was provided for this So Cal Holiday Prep Classic Prep Division game.

West Hills get the Crown in Coronado tournament

© East County Sports.com
CORONADO (12-24-14) — West Hills met Hilltop in the championship game of the Coronado Holiday Invitational and came away with the 51-31 victory.

West Hills: Bailey Albers 12, Kerrie Daniels 12, Vivian Panella 10. (No further information was provided.)

CANYON CREST ACADEMY 53, Santana 38 — No information was reported for this non-league game.

Wolf Pack in the championship on the Island.

© East County Sports.com
CORONADO (12-23-14) — West Hills met Imperial on the peninsula in Monday’s (Dec. 22) Coronado Holiday Invitational and came away with a 43-37 victory, vaulting them into the championship game tomorrow Tuesday (Dec. 23) at 4:45 in Coronado.

The game was close until the Wolf Pack edged Imperial 24-19 at halftime. Imperial rallied in the fourth quarter but was never able to overtake the Pack.

MEGAN SCOTT led West Hills with 13 points and VIVIAN PANELLA added 12.

"The girls played much better tonight, the shooting is slowly coming around," said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. "We had a very good defensive effort, little sloppy late in the fourth but overall pretty good."

West Hills: Kerrie Daniels 12 (7 reb, 1 stl), Bailey Albers 12 (5 reb, 2 stl), Vivian Panella 10 (6 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Maya Clemons 5 (2 reb), Megan Scott 4 (7 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl), ), Jessica Fondas 4 (2 ast), Ali Lenhoff 2 (3 reb), Aylssa Garcia 2 (3 reb), Carly Raley (1 reb, 2 blk), Clarrisa Holder (2 reb), Tiffany Nugyen (1 reb), Tila Whitacre (1 ast, 5 stl).

GROSSMONT 47, CHRISTIAN 22 — The visiting Foothillers jumped out to a 21-8 lead over the Patriots in Monday’s (Dec. 22) non-league contest.

They maintained a 13-8 lead over Christian in the middle two quarters and followed through to the end.

TISHA SILAS paced Grossmont with 18 points, while EMILY BARNES grabbed seven rebounds.

BROOKE OWENS led Christian with 11 points and six rebounds, while TAYLOR MILLER was big on the boards with 12 rebounds.

Grossmont: Tisha Silas 18 (2 stl), Theresa Mapp 7 (4 reb, 3 stl), Candace Henderson 7 (2 reb, 2 stl), Martina Toma 4 (5 stl), Roberts 2 (8 reb), Emily Barnes 2 (7 reb, 1 blk), Halcott 2 (2 blk), Regis Turner 2 (3 stl).

Christian: Brooke Owens 11 (6 reb, 1 stl), Taylor Miller 7 (12 reb, 2 stl), Maddie Bagdasarian 3 (2 reb, 1 stl), Kate Wnek 2 (4 reb, 1 stl), Sage Salacup 2 (1 reb), Rose (3 reb).

MARLBOROUGH 46, MOUNT MIGUEL 43 (OT) — Mount Miguel never quite hit their stride in Monday’s (Dec. 22) Nike Tournament of Champions in Phoenix, AZ, although they did manage to force overtime.

The Matadors trailed 25-17 at the half and rallied some in the third and fourth quarters, but it wasn’t enough.

ZARIA BRANCH led the Matadors with 16 points and five rebounds, while BROOKLYN MILLER popped in 12.

ROZLYN PIERCE grabbed 13 rebounds.

Mount Miguel: Zaria Branch 16 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Brooklyn Miller 12 (2 reb, 1 ast), Satera Bates 8 (1 stl), Rozlyn Pierce 5 (13 reb, 1 stl, 2 blk), Laila Smith 2 (5 reb, 6 ast, 1 blk) Kamree Harrison (3 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl).

Matadors rolling along in Phoenix

© East County Sports.com
PHOENIX, AZ (12-21-14) — Mount Miguel finally came uncocked in the Nike Tournament of Champions in Phoenix, AZ, rolling over St. Mary’s (AZ) 88-34 in Saturday’s (Dec. 20) encounter.

ZARIA BRANCH hit a game high 31 points for the Matadors to go with five rebounds and nine steals. KAMREE HARRISON scored 18 points, SATERA BATES scored 16 and ROZLYN PIERCE added 11 with eight rebounds.

Mount Miguel: Zaria Branch 31 (5 reb, 3 ast, 2 blk, 9 stl), Kamree Harrison 18 (1 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Satera Bates 16 (5 reb, 4 ast, 5 stl), Rozlyn Pierce 11 (8 reb, 3 stl), Camara Douglas 4 (2 reb, 6 ast), Amber Hard 4 (2 reb, 1 ast), Brooklyn Miller 4 (4 reb, 1 ast), Laila Smith (6 ast, 5 stl), Zaria Arline (1 stl).

WEST HILLS 35, CHULA VISTA 22 — The West Hills Wolf Pack played Chula Vista even in the first quarter of Saturday’s (Dec. 20) Coronado Holiday Invitational at 6-apiece, then held the Spartans scoreless through the middle two quarters.

Chula Vista caught their second wind in the last quarter and if the Wolf Pack had not padded their score in the second and third quarters the outcome of this game might have been very different.

"Once again we started very slow," noted Wolf Pack coach RYAN KINSER. "We played very poor basketball tonight."

KERRIE DANIELS paced the Pack with 11 points and six rebounds.

West Hills will play Imperial on Monday (Dec. 22) at 1:30 at Coronado.

West Hills: Kerrie Daniels 11 (6 reb, 2 stl), Bailey Albers 9 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Maya Clemons 8 (2 reb, 1 stl), Carly Raley 3 (7 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Tila Whitaker 3 reb, 1 stl), Vivian Panella 2 (4 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Clarrisa Holder 2 (4 reb), Megan Scott (6 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Tiffany Nugyen (2 reb).

DEL NORTE 39, EL CAPITAN 29 — El Capitan traveled to North County to play Del Norte in Saturday’s (Dec. 20) Maverick Round-Up at La Costa Canyon High.

"We played pretty well defensively in the last quarter," noted El Capitan assistant coach RICK WILKERSON. "We didn’t do so well offensively, but the kids played hard."

El Capitan: Grace Burkett 10 (1 reb, 1 stl), Valerie Renfrow 8 (3 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Kassidy Kygar 5 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Carol Martin 4 (3 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Mackenzie Mead 2 (4 reb, 1 ast).

MT. CARMEL 65, HELIX 53 — No information was provided by this Kiwanis Tournament championship game.

Highlanders into the finals of Kiwanis

© East County Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (12-20-14) — The Helix Highlanders faced the Torrey Pines Falcons on Friday (Dec. 19) in the prestigious Kiwanis Tournament semifinals and came away the winner, 69-55.

The two teams played it even at 14-all at the end of the first quarter, then Helix started pulling ahead and would not lose the lead.

"My girls did a good job tonight," said Highlanders coach PATRICK TABOR. "We’re in a tough tournament. We’re starting to be a family. My girls are starting to buy into my system."

DESTINI ANDERSON paced the Highlanders with 15 points, while SHIRAH HANCOCK and TALIAH HOOKER chipped in 11 points apiece – including three 3-pointers for Hooker – and DANIELLE SIMMONS added 10.

The Highlanders will meet Mt. Carmel at Serra High School for the Kiwanis Tournament Championship at 7:30 Saturday night (Dec. 20).

Helix: Destini Anderson 15, Shirah Hancock 11, Taliah Hooker 11, Danielle Simmons 10, Irma Ealy 6, Briajunae Shepard 6, Camryn Owens 6, Kaitlyn Keys 4.

WEST HILLS 42, EASTLAKE 32 — The West Hills Wolf Pack came out ready to play against the Eastlake Titans in Friday’s (Dec. 19) Coronado Holiday Invitational action.

The Pack took the lead and never looked back, although the Titans came within one point of winning the second quarter.

The Wolf Pack played with balanced scoring as well as rebounding, as senior BAILEY ALBERS was the only one to hit double digits with 11 points and five rebounds.

West Hills will meet Clairemont on Saturday (Dec. 20) in the Coronado Holiday Invitational at 3:20.

West Hills: Bailey Albers 11 (5 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Vivian Panella 8 (6 reb, 4 ast), Jessica Fondas 6 (5 reb, 1 stl), Kerrie Daniels 5 (8 reb), Carly Raley 5 (5 reb, 1 stl, 2 blk), Megan Scott 3 (7 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Maya Clemons 2 (3 reb), Tila Whitaker 2 (1 reb, 2 stl), Clarrisa Holder (1 reb, 1 stl), Tiffany Nugyen (1 reb).

WEST CAMPUS 40, MOUNT MIGUEL 28 — The Mount Miguel Matadors met the West Campus Warriors of Sacramento in the prestigious Nike Tournament of Champions in Phoenix (AZ) Friday (Dec. 19), and unfortunately came out on the short end.

"It was pretty bad," said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. "We missed 15 layups. We had to play without ROZLYN PIERCE, who sprained her ankle yesterday. We’re hoping she will be able to go tomorrow.

"We had a hard time stopping the other team’s best two players. It happened to us several times before – their two best two players are beating us and our best two players are no showing up."

Senior BROOKLYN MILLER was the only Matador to hit double digits.

Mount Miguel will fact St. Mary’s of Arizona on Saturday (Dec. 20) at 12:40.

Mount Miguel: Brooklyn Miller 12 (7 reb, 1 blk, 2 stl), Zaria Branch 6 (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Kamree Harrison 5 (1 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Satera Bates 4 (5 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Laila Smith 1 (2 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Camara Douglas (4 reb, 2 blk, 1 stl).

RANCHO BUENA VISTA 58, EL CAPITAN 26 — The El Capitan Vaqueros were outmanned from the start of North County’s Maverick Roundup but that didn’t stop them from scoring in double digits as a team in the fourth quarter.

The tournament continues tomorrow as the Vaqueros will face Del Norte at La Costa Canyon at 4 p.m.

El Capitan: Kassidy Kygar 8, Cierra Cutler 6, Grace Burkett 5, Valerie Renfrow 5, Marie Cook 2.

SD-SOUTHWEST 37, GROSSMONT 28 — No further information was provided for this non-league game.

Braves take down Patriots

By Chris Davis
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (12-18-14) — The El Cajon Valley lady Braves defended their home court against Christian Patriots 35-31 in Wednesday’s (Dec. 17) non-league game.

El Cajon Valley was led by freshman LEANNA WATSON who scored eight points for a very balanced Brave team (six players scored, three had six points).

"Turnovers killed us tonight," Christian head coach TIFFANY GILES said after the contest. Indeed, the Patriots did commit plenty of them, 22 to be exact. MADDIE BAGDASARIAN had a game-high 14 points and was the only player that scored double figures in the game.

"It was the best basketball that we have played so far this season in the first half," Giles said. "I’m still proud of them. We knew tonight was going to be a tough night, since we scrimmaged against them."

Christian: Maddie Bagdasarian 14 (9 reb, 1 stl), Brooke Owens (2 reb, 2 ast), Kate Wnek 4 (1 ast, 2 stls), Sage Salacup 5 (5 reb, 3 stls), Hayley Robinson (1reb, 1 stl), Taylor Miller 6 (14 reb, 2 stls, 1 blk).

El Cajon Valley: Ninwey Esho 6 (4 reb, 3 asts, 5 stls), Nashea Lampkin 6 (8 reb, 4 stls), Tatisha Clemens 2 (5 stls), Watson 8 (7 reb,1 stl, 1 ast), Rabab Issa-Taha (1 reb, 1 stl), Mary Grace Ronquillo 6 (4 reb, 5 asts), Danielle Stokes 7 (5 reb, 1 stl, 1 ast).

HELIX 77, SAN DIEGO 43 — No report for this Kiwanis Tournament game.

Matadors extinguished the Firebirds in Arizona

© East County Sports.com
PHOENIX (12-19-14) — The Mount Miguel Matadors faced Chaparral, AZ in Thursday’s (Dec. 18) Nike Tournament of Champions in Phoenix (AZ) and came up with the 44-41 victory at the last second.

"We were up 13 points in the third quarter and they took the lead 41-40 with 38 seconds remaining," said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. "Then ZARIA BRANCH had the game winning basket."

KAMREE HARRISON paced the Matadors with 10 points, while BROOKLYN MILLER added 10 points as did ROZLYN PIERCE.

The Matadors will meet West Campus at 3:20 on Friday (Dec. 19).

Mount Miguel: Kamree Harrison 10 (3 reb, 4 ast, 4 stl), Brooklyn Miller 10 (9 (3 reb, 1 stl), Rozlyn Pierce 10 (4 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Zaria Branch 9 (4 reb, 3 ast, 2 blk, 2 stl), Laila Smith 4 (2 reb, 2 stl), Satera Bates 2 (10 reb), Camara Douglas (1 stl), Amber Hard (1 stl).

EL CAJON VALLEY 48, LIBERTY CHARTER 14 – El Cajon Valley is off to a stellar start, standing at 5-0 to begin the season. On Thursday (Dec. 18) the Braves hosted the Liberty Charter Lions in a non-league game and came away winners.

The Braves led 17-7 at the half and finished the fourth quarter with a strong 25 points.

Three Braves scored in double digits. DANIELLE STOKES led the scoring with 18 points, while LEANNA WATSON chipped in with 12 and NINWEY ESCHO added 11.

El Cajon Valley: Danielle Stokes 18, Leanna Watson 12, Ninway Escho 11, Nashea Lampkin 7.

HELIX 49, SCRIPPS RANCH 39 — No report was received for this Kiwanis Tournament game.

BONITA VISTA 72, SANTANA 40 — No report was received for this non-League game.

Call the cops, Christian steals a 20

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (12-17-14) — Maranatha Christian traveled to Christian High on Tuesday (Dec. 16) for a non-league contest at the Ryan Athletic Center.

The Patriots were too much for the Eagles as they took the lead in the first quarter 12-6 and led 25-0 by halftime, finishing with a 57-19 win over Maranatha.

MADDIE BAGDASARIAN let the Patriots with 14 points and six rebounds, while BROOKE OWENS added 14 points and nine steals.

"Everybody got to play a lot of minutes tonight," said Patriots coach TIFFANY GILES. "In the second quarter we held them to 23-0."

Christian: Maddie Bagdasarian 14 (6 reb, 2 stl), Brooke Owens 14 (2 ast, 9 stl), Kate Wnek 10 (1 reb, 3 ast, 6 stl), Taylor Miller 8 (13 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl), Sage Salacup 8 (2 reb), Hayley Robinson 3.

El Cap climbs the mountain, but loses

© East County Sports.com
RAMONA (12-16-14) — The El Capitan Vaqueros traveled to the mountains to face Ramona Monday night (Dec. 15) in the Maverick Round-Up.

The Bulldogs took the early lead 21-12 but the Vaqueros rallied in the second quarter to draw within two points of Ramona for the quarter. That would be it for the Vaqueros however, as Ramona finished with a 70-52 victory.

" Ramona is a well-coached team and they made good shots," said El Capitan assistant coach RICK WILKERSON. “But we’re getting better.”

VALERIE RENFROW led the Vaqueros CIERRA CUTLER added 11 points and five steals.

El Capitan: Valerie Renfrow 14 (5 reb, 2 ast, Cierra Cutler 11 (3 reb, 5 stl), Grace Burkett 7 (5 reb, 1 ast), Kassidy Kygar 6 (3 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Mackenzie Mead 6 (1 reb), Carol Martin 5 (1 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), 1 stl), Marie Cook 3 (3 reb, 2 ast).

PACIFIC RIDGE AT EL CAJON VALLEY — The scoring was relatively even between the teams in the first half of this non-league encounter on Monday night (Dec. 15), with host El Cajon Valley taking a 3 point lead at the end of the first quarter.

Halftime saw the Braves draw ahead 26-21, and then go on a scoring outburst to lead in the final two quarters for the victory.

NINWEY ESCHO led the Braves in scoring with 14 points, while LEANNA WATSON added 13 and NASCEA LAMPKIN chipped in with 12 points.

The Braves were pleased to have a local celebrity attend the game. National golf champion Phil Mickelsen was in attendance, watching his daughter Amanda and the rest of the Firebirds race up and down the floor.

El Cajon Valley: Ninwey Escho 14, Leanna Watson 13, Nascea Lampkin 12, Titisha Clemons 2, Mary Ronquillo 4, Danielle Stokes 4.

Battle of top teams goes to Poway

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (12-14-14) — In a battle of two of the top basketball programs over the last few years the Titans of Poway High took on the West Hills Wolf Pack in the North County Tipoff on Saturday (Dec. 13) in Santee.

The Titans who would eventually come out on top 48-47 jumped out on the Wolf Pack 14-0 to start the game and it wasn’t until 1:53 left in the first quarter that West Hills scored their first basket of the game on a jumper by VIVIAN PANELA.

It could have been a lot worse for the Wolf Pack as they recovered slightly to score a couple more points and only trail 18-5 after the first period. The Wolf Pack shot a dismal 2 of 12 from the floor for the quarter.

The Titans looked to put the game away in the first half and actually led by 17 points with a little over two minutes to go in the half but the Wolf Pack was able to cut a little chunk of the lead and only trail 31-20 at the half which saw them shoot 6 of 22 for the first half.

Despite the slow start, which has been typical of West Hills this year, and trailing by 11 they went into the locker room with hope.

West Hills came out of the half with a bang by scoring the first two baskets to pull within seven, 31-24, which prompted Poway coach Jay Trousdale to call timeout with seven minutes to go in the quarter.

The Wolf Pack after the timeout scored a couple more baskets to go on an 8-0 run to pull within three at 31-28, which prompted another timeout with four and a half minutes left.

The scoring wasn’t finished for the third period as both teams traded baskets but the Wolf Pack who would finish the 3rd quarter on a 10-2 run would only trail 33-30 and outscore the Titans 10-2 for the period.

The pivotal fourth period saw much craziness with the first tie of the ballgame coming with 5:30 left, all knotted up at 34-34. Back and forth both teams went, with West Hills taking their first lead of the game 38-37 with 3:45 remaining, but that would only last a few seconds as Poway retook the lead and then again, with 2:30 remaining, the Wolf Pack retook the lead 40-39.

The fourth period was like a heavyweight title fight as there were six ties and five lead changes. However it was Poway who would score what ended up being the knockout blow going up 48-44 with a go ahead shot with only 25 seconds remaining in the game.

Despite being down by four West Hills had one last chance as Panela came down the court and drilled a three with no time left on the clock to make the game a one point decision.

The Wolf Pack was led by their top player BAILEY ALBERS who chipped in 19 points as well as Panela who scored 13 points. West Hills outscored POWAY 27-17 in the second half but again it was the slow start in the first half that the Wolf Pack couldn’t overcome.

West Hills: Bailey Albers 19, Vivian Panela 13 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Megan Scott 7 (4 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Kerrie Daniels 4 (2 reb, 1 ast), Tila Whitaker 2 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Carly Raley 2, Clarrisa Holder (2 reb, 2 stl), Jessica Fondes-Ryan (1 reb, 1 stl), Maya Clemons (1 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl).

MISSION HILLS 54, MOUNT MIGUEL 49 — Mount Miguel came close to winning the championship of the Grey Division of the Matador Classic on Saturday (Dec. 13), coming out strong in the first quarter.

However, the Grizzlies gradually crept ahead in the remaining three quarters and ended up taking the championship.

"We actually dominated the whole game," lamented Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. "We let one girl (Kayla Rooks) score 11 of her 23 points in the fourth quarter. It was very disappointing. We played good defense throught the game but didn’t execute down the stretch."

Mount Miguel: Kamree Harrison 20 (1 reb, 7 ast, 2 stl), Zaria Branch 8 (5 ast), Rozlyn Pierce 6 (16 reb, 5 blk), Satera Bates 5 (2 reb), Laila Smith 4 (5 reb, 1 ast, 6 stl), Brooklyn Miller 4 (2 reb), Camera Douglas (5 reb, 1 stl).

STEELE CANYON 52, LUTHERAN 8 — Steele Canyon traveled to South Bay for a non-league game against Lutheran on Saturday (Dec. 13) and came away with a lop-sided victory.

JULES LOIBL led the Cougars in scoring with 12 points, while the rest of the Cougars turned in a balanced effort on the scoreboard.

"In the 3rd quarter we were able to play more of a ball control offense before we tried to score," said Cougars coach PETER RUIZ.

Steele Canyon: Jules Loibl 12 (1 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Ashley Tavizon 8 (2 reb, 5 ast, 6 stl), Isabella Welch 6 (2 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Dai’re Watkins 6 (2 reb, 2 ast), Sabrina Dozier 6 (1 reb, 3 stl), Nicki DePaola 4 (3 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Marianna Martinez 4 (2 ast, 2 stl), Courtney Fahie 2 (3 ast, 4 stl), Marie Estavillo 2 (2 ast, 2 stl).

Rock defeats the Foothillers

© East County Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (12-13-14) — The Rock Academy overcame the efforts of the Grossmont Foothillers in a Matador Classic contest on Friday (Dec. 12) by a score of 34-28.

No further information was provided.

PATRICK HENRY at SANTANA — No report was received for this non-league game.

Foothillers ride hot start by JV callup

By Chris Davis
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (12-12-14) — The Grossmont Foothillers sprinted out to a quick start and then held on for dear life in a 32-29 victory in a Matador Classic game at Christian High on Thursday (Dec. 11).

In a season that has been marred by injuries for the Foothillers, it was a junior varsity call-up that provided the initial spark. TAISHA SALAS hit her first three straight 3-pointers to start her varsity career.

After the run by Salas, first year Christian head coach TIFFANY GILES decided to change up her defense. "We shut her down and took her out of the equation. My guards did a real good job on her."

"It was a great win for us tonight," Foothillers head coach GRACE CAMPBELL said after the victory. "Considering we have three starters out with injuries."

Christian was trailing 17-7 at the end of the first quarter, but then the hot shooting of Grossmont came to a screeching halt. During the second and third quarters the Patriots went on a 15-8 run, to make it 25-22 in favor of the Foothillers. "We got complacent and ended up taking some bad shot selections because of that," Campbell stated.

"We lost the game at the line tonight," Giles said. The Patriots had a less than stellar 2-for-12 from the free throw line.

Of course, Grossmont had a chance to give themselves a little more breathing room if they would’ve made their chances from the charity strip. The Foothillers went 1-for-7 for the game.

"Were a young team, we only have one senior. The next few years are going to be really great around here," said Coach Giles.

One of the five freshmen on the Patriots roster, MADDIE BAGDASARIAN had a double-double including career-highs of 12 points and 17 rebounds.

Grossmont: Taisha Salas 12, Emily 8, Corinne Selander 8, Lauren Cheeseman 4.

Christian: Maddie Bagdasarian 12 points (17 reb, 1 stl), Brooke Owens 2 (7 stls, 1 ast), Kate Wnek 6 (3 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Sage Salacup 2 (3 reb, 2 stls), Alyssa Rothrock (2 reb), Haley Robinson (1 reb), Taylor Miller 7 (20 reb, 2 ast).

MOUNT MIGUEL 75, OUR LADY OF PEACE 53 — Mount Miguel hosted OLP Thursday (Dec. 11) in a Matador Classic encounter in Normal Heights.

KAMREE HARRISON scored a game high 21 points for the Matadors, while ZARIA BRANCH added 12 points as did ROZLYN PIERCE. SATERA BATES contributed 11 points and seven steals.

The score was 33-25 at halftime and the Matadors lead the entire game.

"We’re just trying to get better every game," said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL.

Mount Miguel: Kamree Harrison 21 (3 reb, 4 ast, 5 stl), Zaria Branch 12 (2 reb, 4 ast, 5 stl), Rozlyn Pierce 12 (5 reb, 3 blk), Satera Bates 11 (4 reb, 1 ast, 7 st), Brooklyn Miller 8 (5 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Camara Douglas 6 (6 reb, 1 ast, 3 blk, 1 stl).

GRANITE HILLS at SERRA — game cancelled

Braves get a come from behind victory over Health Sciences

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (12-11-14) — Host El Cajon Valley fell behind in the opening two quarters to Health Sciences in Wednesday’s (Dec. 10) non-league encounter, but the Braves came back strong in the final two quarters to take the ball game 40-31.

The game was tied at 14-all at the half and the Braves pulled away by five points at the end of the third quarter and by eight at the end of the game.

STOKES was the high point person for the Braves, with ESHO, CLEMONS and WATSON close behind with 8 points apiece.

El Cajon Valley: Stokes 9, Ninwey Esho 8, Clemons 8, Watson 8, Grace Ronquillo 4, Lampkin 3.

WEST HILLS 48, SCRIPPS RANCH 29 — West Hills jumped out fast on the Falcons in the first quarter, leading 14-4 in Wednesday’s (Dec. 10) non-league contest. Scripps Ranch recovered slightly to lead by one point in the second quarter scoring.

The Wolf Pack got their second wind in the third quarter, however, leading 18-7 in that period and finished strong to take the victory.

BAILEY ALBERS led the Pack in scoring with 14 points and five rebounds.

"The girls played well tonight," said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. "We came out in both the first and third quarters with a lot of energy and built a nice lead. We also had a much better defensive effort tonight."

West Hills: Bailey Albers 14 (5 reb, 2 stl), Vivian Panella 8 (1 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Jessica Fondas 8 (2 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Carly Raley 6 (1 reb, 1 ast), Maya Clemons 4 (4 reb, 3 stl), Kerrie Daniels 3 (4 reb, 1 stl), Clarrisa Holder 3 (1 reb), Tila Whitaker 2 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Megan Scott (4 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl).

EL CAPITAN 67, PACIFIC RIDGE 12 — The El Capitan Vaqueros travelled to North County for a non-league encounter with the Pacific Ridge Firebirds on Wednesday (Dec. 10) and came away with the victory.

The Vaqueros led 29-8 at the half and held the Firebirds to zero in the fourth quarter, which was played with a running clock.

MARIE COOK led El Capitan in scoring with 16 points, while CIERRA CUTLER was close behind with 15 as was KASSIDY KYGAR, also with 15. KASSIDY KYGAR was outstanding with 12 steals for the Vaqueros.

El Capitan: Marie Cook 16 (2 reb, 2 ast), Cierra Cutler 15 (4 reb, 7 ast, 4 stl), Kassidy Kygar 15 (12 stl, 1 reb), MacKenzie Mead 8 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk), Valerie Renfrow 7 (1 reb, 4 ast, 2 blk, 3 stl), Grace Burkett 3 (2 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Carol Martin 2 (2 ast, 3 stl).

HOOVER 51, SANTANA 40 — The Santana Sultans took on the visiting Cardinals of Hoover High in non-league action Wednesday (Dec. 10) and unfortunately the Sultans came up short.

The Cardinals raced out to a 10-1 led to start the game and pretty much never looked back from start to finish. The Sultans couldn’t recover, only shooting 2-14 in the first quarter and trailed 17-7 after one period of play.

Santana had their opportunities in the first half but didn’t help their cause by missing six layups. Hoover took advantage of the Sultans’ shooting woes and built their largest lead of the game at 17 with a minute left in the first half, ultimately leading 31-16 at the half.

The second half was a different ballgame for Santana as they tried to claw into the Hoover lead. The Sultans cut the lead to single digits in the third period but as soon as they accomplished this, the Cardinals came back to extend their lead to 41-29.

In the fourth quarter the teams went back and forth but the Sultans, who were led in scoring by both TAYLOR ESTES and MORGAN TURNER, who each had 13 points apiece, could never get closer than seven points. SIERRA SIMANEK weighed in for Santana with 10 rebounds.

Despite the loss the Sultans outscored the Cardinals 24-20 in the second half and played very well, but unfortunately basketball is a tale of two halves.

Santana: Taylor Estes 13 (6 reb, 5 stl), Morgan Turner 13 (6 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Gretchen Hudson 7 (4 reb, 1 ast), Sierra Simanek 5 (10 reb), Kelsey Wilson 2 (4 reb, 1 stl, 1 ast), Khadizhat Dakeva (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Tika Taylor (1 reb), Kobie Holland (1 reb).

CANYON CREST 38, STEELE CANYON 30 — Host Steele Canyon battled valiantly but the Ravens of Canyon Crest were just too much for the Cougars in Wednesday’s (Dec. 12) non-league contest.

Steele Canyon trailed by only three points at the half but lost steam in the final two quarters.

JULES LOIBL led the Cougars with 13 points, five rebounds and an assist, while NICKI DePAOLA grabbed seven rebounds.

"We played them tough but no cigar," said Cougars coach PETER RUIZ. "In the second half we didn’t do that well at the free throw line (3-for-16 in the fourth quarter)."

"Canyon Crest fouled out four players in the fourth quarter, but the nail in the coffin for us was poor free throw shooting, especially in the fourth."

Steele Canyon: Jules Loibl 13 (5 reb, 1 ast), Ashley Tavizon 8 (2 reb, 1 ast), Victoria Etheridge 6 (1 stl, 1 blk), Isabella Welch 2 (3 reb, 2 stl), Dai’re Watkins 1 (2 reb, 2 ast), Nicki DePaola (7 reb, 1 stl).

Crusaders give Matadors a good fight, but end up falling

By Adam Paul
© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (12-10-14) — In a battle between two Top 10 teams in San Diego the Mount Miguel Matadors defeated the Mater Dei Crusaders 58-50 Monday’s (Dec. 9) Matador Classic action.

It wasn’t an easy victory as the Crusaders wouldn’t give in to the pressure of the Matadors defense.

Mount Miguel led 17-9 after the first period but that lead would dwindle down to two points as the Crusaders started the second period on a 6-9 run to pull within 17-15 at the 6:35 mark.

Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL called timeout to try to stop the momentum of the Crusaders. It seemed to slow the Crusaders some, as both teams went back and forth in the second quarter but when it was all said and done for the first half the Crusaders outscored Mount Miguel 19-18, with the Matadors rallying to lead 35-28 at the half.

The second half was more of the same with the physical play between the two teams. The Matadors led by as many as 13 points in the second half and as little as five. They were able to push their lead to nine going into the final stanza after outscoring the Crusaders 11-9 to lead 46-37.

Taking the lead into the fourth quarter and finishing the job was a concern for Coach Sandoval.

"We blew a couple of opportunities last week as we had the lead in the fourth, but couldn’t finish," Sandoval said.

Despite this concern he was happy at the end of the night as his Matadors were able to finish but not without a fight by the Crusaders.

"It was a good win against a quality team," Sandoval said.

The Matadors were led by KAMREE HARRISON with 18 points, while ZARIA BRANCH added 14. Branch was 7-of-8 on free throws.

ROZLYN PIERCE rolled a double-double of 10 points and 14 rebounds.

Mount Miguel: Kamree Harrison 18 (3 reb, 2 stl), Zaria Branch 14 (2 reb, 5 stl), Rozlyn Pierce 10 (14 reb, 3 blk, 2 stl),Satera Bates 6 (4 reb, 1 stl), Camara Douglas 3 (5 reb, 1 stl, 2 blk), Laila Smith 3 (2 reb, 1 stl), Brooklyn Miller 2 (6 reb, 3 stl).

CHRISTIAN 44, ROCK ACADEMY 42 — The Christian Patriots met the Rock Academy Warriors in Monday’s (Dec. 9) Matador Classic encounter and came away with a victory that KATE WNEK shouldered with her first 3-pointer – ever – in the fourth quarter to seal the deal.

"Kate was so surprised," laughed Patriots coach TIFFANY GILES. "It was a nail-biter all the way, and she was the one who put us up by 2 points to win it."

"They had some girls who could shoot the 3-pointers, but they got in foul trouble and we were in the one-and-one the whole quarter. We were 8-for-14 in the fourth quarter. We missed a lot of free throws in the first, second, and third quarters but we made up for it in the fourth."

TAYLOR MILLER paced the Patriots with 17 points while BROOK OWENS chipped in with 15 points.

Christian: Taylor Miller 17, Brooke Owens 15, Kate Wnek 5, Sage Salacup 4, Maddie Bagdasarian 3.

TORREY PINES 85, GRANITE HILLS 63 — Granite Hills ran up against a buzzsaw Monday (Dec. 9) in a Matador Classic encounter with powerhouse Torrey Pines. The Eagles held their own in the first quarter, edging the Falcons 21-20 at the end of the quarter.

The Falcons got the wind under their wings in the remaining quarters, however, and finished strong, taking the victory away from the Eagles.

"We were hanging with them in the first half," noted Granite Hills coach CURTIS NORWOOD. "I’m excited about this group of girls. They have character. It’s tough losing your coach and here I come speaking another language."

"But we’ll get there, the girls hustle and I know we’ll be alright."

Granite Hills was led in scoring by RAELLEAH MOORE with a double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds, while MICAYELA HERNANDEZ added 17 points and DEAJANAE HARVEY popped in 12.

Granite Hills: Raelleah Moore 18 (12 reb), Micayela Hernandez 17 (3 reb), Deajanae Harvey 12 (5 reb), Emma Kubari 7 (1 reb), Justine Garde 6, Delaney Casey 3 (3 reb), Anyang Anoth (1 reb), Kani Kubari (1 reb), Chase Robles (1 reb).

MAR VISTA at EL CAJON VALLEY — No report was received for this non-league game.

Wolf Pack doubles up Ramona early, holds on late

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (12-9-14) — West Hills rode a 16-8 lead in the first quarter and held a slim advantage through the rest of the game to capture the victory 50-47 over Ramona in the North County Tipoff Monday (Dec. 8).

"We started off real well, something we failed to do in the first two games," said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. "Our offense stalled in the 2nd quarter but defensively we did well."

"We came out in the 3rd and played good offense but had way too many breakdowns defensively. In the 4th we struggled on both sides of the ball but pulled it out in the end."

"I’m proud of the girls for the way they battled back the last 2 minutes after losing the lead we had all game," said Kinser.

BAILEY ALBERS led the Wolf Pack with 17 poionts, while VIVIAN PANELLA added 11.

MEGAN SCOTT was a beast on the boards with 11 rebounds.

West Hills: Bailey Albers 17 (4 reb), Vivian Panella 11 (7 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Megan Scott 5 (11 reb, 3 ast, 5 stl), Jessica Fondas 5 (4 reb, 1 ast), Carly Raley 4 (7 reb, 3 stl), Tila Whitaker 4 (1 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Maya Clemons 2 (3 reb), Kerrie Daniels 2 (2 reb), Ali Lenhoff (3 reb, 2 stl), Clarrisa Holder (1 reb).

EL CAPITAN 41, CENTRAL UNION 36 — The El Capitan Vaqueros traveled a long way to come away with a victory in the desert as they defeated Central Union in a non-league game on Monday (Dec. 8).

KASSIDY KYGAR and VALERIE RENFROW led the Vaqueros in scoring with nine points and six rebounds apiece.

El Capitan: Kassidy Kygar 9 (6 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl, Valerie Renfrow 9 (6 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Carol Martin 7 (6 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Cierra Cutler 6 (8 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl), Grace Burkette 5 (4 reb), Mackenzie Mead 5 (1 reb).

Matadors first in Hills to get a "W"

SPRING VALLEY (12-7-14) — Mount Miguel hosted Olympian in Saturday’s (Dec. 6) Matador Classic game and mounted a sizable lead to seal the 68-28 victory.

KAMREE HARRISON led the Matadors in scoring with 23 points, ZARIA BRANCH chipped in 12 points, and CAMARA DOUGLAS contributed 10.

ROZLYN PIERCE paced Mount Miguel in rebounds by grabbing 15 boards, recording 5 blocks and making 5 steals.

It was undoubtedly a welcome relief for the Matadors to see a "W" on their ledger, even though the previous two losses were to stronger opponents.

Mount Miguel: Kamree Harrison 23 (3 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Zaria Branch 12 (3 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Camara Douglas 10 (2 reb, 2 blk, 4 stl), Rozlyn Pierce 7 (15 reb, 5 blk, 5 stl), Brooklyn Miller 7 (3 reb, 1 stl), Laila Smith 6 (2 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl), Satera Bates 4 (4 reb, 1 ast), Amber Hard 2 (2 reb, 1 ast).

GRANITE HILLS at OUR LADY OF PEACE — (Late) Matador Classic encounter of Saturday (Dec. 6).

Granite Hills: Deajanae Harvey 17 (3 reb), Emma Kubari 12 (3 reb), Micayela Hernandez 10 (2 reb), Justine Garde 5, Delaney Casey 4 (3 reb), Raelleah Moore (8 reb), Chase Robles (1 reb).

El Capitan says ‘Hola’ to second win

© East County Sports.com
SAN MARCOS (12-4-14) — The El Capitan Vaqueros met the San Pasqual Eagles Wednesday (Dec. 3) in the Excalibur Classic in North County, coming away with a 46-39 victory. CIERRA CUTLER shared the scoring lead with VALERIE RENFROW with 13 points apiece.

The Vaqueros welcomed to the team exchange student CAROL CRISTOBAL, who hails from Spain.

"We have almost our whole team back," said El Capitan assistant coach RICK WILKERSON. "We have a great group of kids. We’ve had most of them for several years."

El Capitan: Cierra Cutler 13 (5 reb, 2 ast), Valerie Renfrow 13 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Mackenzie Mead 9 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Kassidy Kygar 5 (3 reb, 5 ast, 5 stl), Marie Cook 4 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Carol Cristobal 2 (3 reb, 2 stl), Grace Burkett (3 reb).

ST. IGNATIUS 78, HELIX 46 — The Helix Highlanders ran into a buzz saw in Wednesday’s (Dec. 3) La Jolla Country Day Sweet 16 tournament action. The Wildcats from San Francisco, last year’s Open Division CIF champions, were too much for Helix.

"We have a tougher schedule this year," noted Highlanders coach PATRICK TABOR. "Winning CIF last year made us realize that we have to work harder this year. I’m not upset with my girls. They just have life lessons to learn."

BRIAJUNAE SHEPARD led the Highlanders in scoring with 19 points.

Helix: Briajunae Shepard 19, Camryn Owens 8, Irma Ealy 5, Shirah Hancock 4, Destini Anderson 3, Danielle Simmons 3, Taliah Hooker 2, Raeshondra Dike’ 2.

GROSSMONT defeated AUSTRALIA — No report for this Matador Classic game.

KEARNY at SANTANA — No report for this non-league game.