DeLeon arrives as star for Palomar

By Ramon Scott
Updated: January 18, 2024

Former Monte Vista High star Angelina De Leon is a do-it-all performer for the Palomar Comets. / P.J. Panebianco

2023-24 COMMUNITY COLLEGE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

By P.J. Panebianco
EastCountySports.com correspondent

FLETCHER HILLS — When the van carrying the Palomar College women’s basketball team arrived at Grossmont College Friday night, Angelina De Leon had returned to her roots. A 2023 Monte Vista graduate, the contest was her first collegiate game in the East County.

De Leon choose Palomar because of its intense style of play. Her fleet feet fit perfectly in the Comets’ full-court press and up-tempo offense.

No longer the focal point of the offense, De Leon emphasized the comfort her teammates gave her as she has transitioned to the next level.

“At Palomar, we have a lot of pieces and I work well with my teammates,” she said.

De Leon boxes out against Grossmont College. / P.J. Panebianco

On Friday, that chemistry was on full display. Her efforts helped Palomar to a resounding 83-34 victory.

De Leon scored the game’s first basket on a layup, igniting a 25-0 run to start the first quarter. She dished out a game high eight assists.

More than just a willing passer, she filled up the stat sheet with 11 points, five rebounds, and a pair of steals in just 29 minutes.

As loud as her game spoke, it paled in comparison to the large cheering section echoing throughout Grossmont’s gym.

The Comets led 49-11 at the half, primarily on the strength its pressure that forced 23 Griffin turnovers. As the game wore on and Palomar relaxed its defense, Grossmont picked up it scoring.

The Griffins outscored the Comets 14-13 in the fourth.