By Bill Dickens
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (2-18-12) — Helix High coach JOHN SINGER is somewhat of a magician. Give him a handful of athletes – basketball skills not required – and he will manage to find a way to finish on top.

In a season-ending showdown against rival Grossmont Friday (Feb. 17) on the Foothillers’ floor, the Highlanders turned a 27-26 third-quarter edge into a 41-29 advantage on their way to a 54-43 Grossmont Hills League title-clinching victory.

This is the 15th Grossmont League championship in 31 years for Singer, who possesses an overall mark of 592-246 during his lengthy stint at Helix.

“It always feels great to be a champion,” said Helix junior point guard TITUS YOUNG, who was a member of last year’s title group and knocked down 11 points and grabbed 9 rebounds against the Hillers.

Senior BRIAN VALADEZ pulled up strong with a double-double of 17 points and 14 rebounds for the Highlanders (17-9 overall, 8-2 GHL).

“We knew we had to grind it out because we knew they would be aggressive and trying to play the foul game, but we felt like we had it under control,” Valadez said. “We thought we had them.”

Helix’s KAELAN MITCHELL erupted for 8 of his 11 points in the 3rd quarter helping Helix forge in front 35-26 with eight minutes remaining.

In the fourth quarter, Grossmont (14-12, 7-3 GHL) pressed to cut into Helix’s lead, and with 3:24 remaining the Foothillers pulled to within 41-36.

But that was as close as the Foothillers would get.

“I thought this was the best physical game we’ve played all year,” said Singer. “We stayed with the game plan and got great separation. Titus was outstanding at point guard and I thought our post guys did very well.”

Valadez netted 6 of 10 shots from the field and dished 5 assists while recording 3 steals.

“It’s like a story and a happy ending pretty much,” Valadez said. “It feels great, especially beating our rivals for the championship. It’s an amazing feeling and a great way to end my senior year.”

Grossmont senior ROBBY NESOVIC, apparently feeling that he needed to carry the bulk of the load, attempted to beat the Highlanders by himself. The obvious choice for MVP of the GHL, Nesovic finished with a game-high 23 points and 16 rebounds for the Foothillers.

“We played harder in this game than we did in our house (when Grossmont won 59-45 last month) because there was more on the line,” Young said. “We just came out and played harder.”

The Foothillers dedicated the game to the memory of football coach Ron Murphy, who died on Tuesday, ending a battle with cancer. A moment of silence was observed in Murphy’s honor – in a gym packed to the rafters you could have heard a pin drop.

A celebration of life will be held for Murphy on Saturday (Feb. 18) from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Grossmont High football field.

Helix: Brian Valadez 17 (14 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl, 2 blk), Titus Young 11 (9 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Kaelan Mitchell 11 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Kene Anigbogu 5 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Will Mildenhall 4 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Romario Wilson 3 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 5 blk), Derrick Chandler 2 (2 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk), Michael Todd 1 (4 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl).

Grossmont: Robby Nesovic 23 (16 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk, 2 stl), Derek Rustich 14 (12 reb1 blk, 3 stl), Bilal Rahim 2 (7 reb, 1 ast), J.T. Barnes (2 reb, 1 ast), Austin Swisher 4 (3 reb, 1 ast), Adam Robinson (1 reb).

“They hit three 3s in a row to take the lead,” said Mount Miguel coach JAY ROWLETT. “Lazoya made a difference. I didn’t even know he was playing until they came out to warm up. He played hard.”

Although Mount Miguel started an all 12th grade lineup on Senior Night, the Matadors (22-6, 6-2 GVL) took a 50-29 advantage.

“It was a good game. It’s fun to watch CORY LITTLETON play defense – rebounding and blocking. He defended Lazoya to try to get a bigger, more athletic body on him. Cory Littleton was the MVP of the game. We can’t win games like we do if we don’t have defense like Cory gives us., said Rowlett said.”

With 3 minutes remaining and Mount Miguel leading 56-53, A.J. BRATLIEN shot a 3-pointer that rimmed in and popped out.

“I didn’t start Landon but I told him ‘When they put IZZY (WAGNER) in, you’re going in.’ said Santana coach TIM BARRY. “Lozoya wore his football rib protector under his jersey, even though he’d been cleared by his doctor to play a couple of days earlier.”

“I really didn’t think that he would be physically prepared to play tonight. You can’t replicate conditioning in basketball. He played in and out of the game – when he gave me a fist I pulled him out.”

“I thought it was really fun to play with his buddies that he grew up with. I think he’s ready for the all-star game,” Barry added. “Jay put MARCUS BOOKER on him. We played with three players out – two were ill and one has a sprained ankle – but that allowed me to play my seniors.”

More Barry on Lozoya, “Landon does things from the perimeter that I couldn’t do, and I was a pretty damn good player.” Barry was the3 point guard for Santana’s 1988 SDCIF Division champions.

“I’m proud of the senior kids – to have as much adversity as we’ve been through I had no problem kids this year, nobody quitting, no infighting. We have a team motto: Always play together, always stay together.

Mount Miguel: Izzy Wagner 23 (8 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Cory Littleton 12 (14 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Thomas Butler 15 (8 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Marcus Booker 8 (4 reb, 5 ast, 1 stl), Tony Wills 5 (3 reb, 2 stl), Malcolm Jackson (2 reb), Marcellus Jones (1 ast, 1 stl), Jaz Woodard (1 stl).

Santana: Landon Lozoya 16 (3 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Dustin Murphy 15 (2 stl), Mike Rosolino 8 (1 reb, 1 ast), Daniel Levens-Lowery 7 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Christian Barry 2 (2 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), David Albright 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), James Doherty 2, A.J. Bratlien (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

Talk to the hand

Granite Hills center Scott Atkinson, East County's single-season record holder for blocked shots, with a putback basket. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

VALHALLA 54, GRANITE HILLS 50 – In a battle of two Grossmont Hills League borderline teams, host Valhalla pulled out a last-second victory in Friday’s (Feb. 17) league finale.

This was a typical showdown that was decided in the final 25 seconds.

Granite Hills, leading by one, watched as Valhalla’s A.J. ALLEN tipped a rebound to teammate CHRIS SHIELDS, who buried a 3-pointer with 7 seconds left to stake the Norsemen to a 52-50 lead. It was the second time in two years that Shields had beaten the Eagles with a last-second shot.

Faced with its back to the wall, Granite Hills made an inbound pass to 6-foot-9 center SCOTT ATKINSON at mid-court. The Eagles’ big man then dealt a super-assist to a teammate who blew the layup which cost the Eagles the victory.

MATT BUTCHER then buried two free throws to increase Valhalla ’s record to 8-19, 3-7 GHL.

KYLE PIERSON had probably one of his best games of the year with a game-high 20 points and 13 rebounds for the Eagles, while Atkinson finished with 18 points and 11 rebounds.

Shields recorded 15 points and 8 rebounds, while SPENCER HAVIRD and Allen registered 10 points apiece.

“This is a good way to finish up the season,” said Valhalla coach KEITH JACKSON. “It’s a great way for our seniors to go out.”

Valhalla: Chris Shields 15 (8 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Spencer Havird 10 (4 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), A.J. Allen 10 (4 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk), Matt Butcher 5 (3 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Andrew Lozoya 5 (2 ast, 2 stl), Kevin Mills 4 (1 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Taylor Hammet 2 (2 reb, 2 blk, 1 stl), David Gazelle 1 (1 reb), Amil Hermiz (1 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl).

Granite Hills: Kyle Pierson 20 (13 reb), Scott Atkinson 18 (11 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 4 blk), D.J. Palomera 6 (4 ast, 4 stl, 1 reb), Stephen Keppel 3 (8 reb), Koltin Higgins 2 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Danny Smith 1, Danny Densel (1 reb).

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
POINT LOMA (2-17-12) — Twenty-four years ago, a parent of a Christian High basketball player recalled a situation similar to her son's.

"When I was playing soccer for Valhalla , we played in the (1988 Division 3A) championship game against Bonita Vista, and it ended in a tie," said the mother, who is unidentified to protect her age. "We all said, 'What? We're not going to play overtime? We want to keep playing! Come on!'"

On the hardwood Thursday (Feb. 16), the Patriots felt correspondingly disappointed.

Despite a massive rally to move even with host Point Loma at 41-all with 2:44 remaining, the Pointers registered the game's final seven points to down Christian, 48-41. The Patriots' setback leaves them in a 3-way tie for the Central League championship with Kearny and Coronado as the regular season comes to a conclusion.

The official record book will list the Pats as 2011-12 champions, but...

"It's a disappointment," admitted Christian head coach KELVIN STARR. "We didn't show a lot of poise down the stretch with a couple of silly turnovers, two missed layups – that was the difference in the ballgame."

A mid-ranger jumper by Point Loma senior Daniel Enright gave the Pointers a 41-32 lead to equal their biggest advantage of the contest with 5:59 left before Christian answered.

A 9-0 run featured a 3-point basket by center JASON GAINES, who then stole the ball and fed TYLER BALLARD for a layin to trim the deficit to four points.

Following another Point Loma turnover, STEPHEN JOHNSTON fired a 50-foot pass to Gaines for a basket, then the Patriots comeback reached another level when TRENTON SAULS held his ground on defense by taking a charge to again get the ball back.

"All-in-all, we did a pretty good job defensively all night," added Starr. "The kids played hard and defended real well."

And when Ballard followed with a drive to the basket for another layin, Christian was in position to ruin the Pointers' Senior Night.

However, Enright was able to dribble past his defender on three occasions and got fouled. He sank 5-of-6 from the foul line to key Point Loma's 7-0 run for the victory.

"We gambled a couple of times and they went backdoor on us," Starr mentioned on Enright's ability to penetrate in the final minutes.

Enright paced Point Loma with nine of his 12 points in the second half.

"It was a great win for us tonight," said Enright. "After they tied it, we were in the huddle (during a Point Loma timeout) and were told to keep our composure and we did."

Gaines led the Patriots with another double-double, collected game-highs of 18 points and 10 rebounds. Johnston added 11 points.

"Gaines had a great left hand," added Enright. "He was difficult to stop."

Christian: Jason Gaines 18 (10 reb, 2 blk, 2 ast, 1 stl), Stephen Johnston 11 (2 stl, 2 reb, 1 ast), Tyler Ballard 7 (3 reb, 2 stl, 1 ast), Phillip George 3 (2 reb, 1 ast), Jake Larsen 2 (3 ast, 3 reb, 2 stl), Trenton Sauls (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 charge), Michael LeTouzik (3 reb).

By Andrew Smith
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (2-16-12) — When Christian High abruptly received the news that their team captain and floor general SHANE DILLON's season was over due to shoulder surgery, everyone in the Ryan Athletic Center was baffled at what to expect on the court with only two games left and the playoffs looming.

They held a half-game lead over Kearny in the Central League and needed a win against Crawford Wednesday (Feb. 15) night for them to hold their destiny and become outright league champions.

Dillon accounted for 30 percent of the Patriots scoring offense on the season and his absence showed early when the team missed their first eight shots from the field. However, thanks to JASON GAINES, East County's third leading scorer, and a late defensive flurry, the Patriots survived to come away with a 62-58 victory.

“We definitely lost a big part of our team,” said Gaines, who finished with 32 points, just one shy of his career high. “I knew it was just time for me to step up.”

The Colts shot the lights out in the first half, connecting on six 3-pointers, but could they keep that up in the second half?

They came out and did just the opposite in the third quarter using their guards’ extreme quickness to get to the hoop and scored 22 points in the quarter and held a 52-44 advantage with 6:35 remaining in the game.

Keeping Christian in the game was the hot shooting from behind the arc by junior STEPHEN JOHNSTON as he netted 5 treys on the night.

“It was really a matter of Jason and JAKE LARSEN driving to the hole hard and kicking it out unselfishly to the open man,” Johnston explained. “I was just lucky enough to make some shots.”

With 4:40 left in the game the Patriots went on a furious 9-0 run over the next 93 seconds thanks to consecutive steals from Larsen and Johnston which led to 2 layups.

Gaines came up huge in the last quarter notching 15 of his 32 markers, but his late steal that led to an intentional foul proved to be crucial.

“He's come such a long way this year it's really great to see,” head coach KELVIN STARR said. “He's figuring it out all right now... how to be a leader and how to be a man.”

The game seemed to be in good hands until the Colts were rewarded two free throws with a questionable call and with 38 seconds left the game was all knotted up 58-58.

Queue the unsung hero.

“I saw Jake (Larsen) driving to the hole hard and I thought he was gonna dish it off,” TYLER BALLARD explained of his first career game-winning bucket. “He went up with it so I just followed the shot and tipped it in.”

In shock, the fact that he gave his entire team a shot at an outright championship hadn't kicked in yet.

“I didn't even realize what had happened until the timeout was called,” Ballard said. “I looked up at the scoreboard and I couldn't believe it.”

“Our entire team as a whole though fought through a lot of adversity to get this win tonight,” Starr said. “So I'm extremely pleased with that, we just need to play better defense from here on out.”

Christian: Jason Gaines 32 (4 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl), Stephen Johnston 15 (5 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Phillip George 6 (4 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Jake Larsen 4 (3 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl, 2 blk), Tyler Ballard 2 (4 reb, 2 ast), Trenton Sauls 2 (4 reb, 1 ast), Michael LeTouzic 1 (1 reb).

	Monte Vista center Devin Rendo slams, helping the Monarchs to their first league crown since 1996 after downing crosstown rival Mount Miguel. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS
	Cougars peaking as playoffs approach By Nick Pellegrino © East County Sports.com RANCHO SAN DIEGO (2-15-12) — It may not be an attractive style of basketball, yet it's one which is starting to add to the Steele Canyon High victory column. 'We're happy where we are right now – we're still improving and polishing everything," said Cougars power forward P.J. RUSSELL. "We fouled a lot, but everyone did their role and we made our free throws." The result was a physical, no-frills triumph over visiting Grossmont, 63-49, sending the Grossmont Hills League race into a final-night showdown to determine a champion. The Foothillers could've clinched a share of the crown Tuesday (Feb. 14), but the upset setback moved Helix and West Hills back into contention. Steele Canyon played itself out of league title consideration in January, but think they can keep playing into March with a nice postseason run. "We now have a 3-game win streak – about to make it four – and just getting ready for the playoffs," added Russell, a senior. While the Cougars defense bumped and grinded, the offense produced its best shooting of the season, nailing 24-of-45 shots (53.3 percent) from the floor, including 13-of-22 (59 percent) in the second half to finally break open the ballgame in the fourth quarter. CASEY BILIKIAN paced Steele Canyon (12-14 overall, 4-5 GHL) with 20 points, nailing six treys to go along with his eight assists. The effort reminds the junior guard of how his team was performing back in December. "At the beginning of the season, we were playing really well," Balikian recalled. "We beat San Marcos at their place; we beat Rancho Bernardo at their place. We've known the whole season that this is what we can do." Then league play started, but the ballclub was left in the starting gate. "Then we got into a slump," Balikian added. "No one was shooting well and our defense went to a bad place. But lately, after the Helix game, we got sick of it and turned it on. And we're playing good basketball at the right time." Conversely, the Foothillers (14-11 overall, 7-2 GHL) were frustrated by the contest's physical nature. Still, they hurt themselves with poor shooting (36 percent from the field, 53 percent from the line), matching the Cougars with 21 turnovers each. Said Russell, "We just try to deny the guards, and on the big guy, we front him." The turning point came early in the fourth quarter with Steele Canyon clinging to a 41-39 advantage. Cougars guard CODY WELLS accepted a Balikian pass for a driving layin while being fouled. Although he missed the foul shots, Wells grabbed the rebound and again converted a layin while being fouled. Moments later, a steal and breakaway basket by DYLAN KIRCHHOFER pushed the lead to 49-41. Balikian followed with an assist on a DANNY BWINIKA bucket, then Balikian nailed a trey to push the lead into double figures with 3:20 remaining to ice the triumph. "Grossmont is a big, half-court team with good big guys," added Balikian. "But their guards are inexperienced, so we wanted to take advantage of our athleticism and put pressure on them, which is where we were pretty successful. We out-ran them." The Foothillers also took slight advantage of Steele Canyon 's usual first-half woes of unforced errors, only leading 27-26 at the intermission. They also held tough defensively, taking a pair of charges and forging three other offensive fouls from the Cougars. ROBBY NESOVIC paced Grossmont with 11 points, while DEREK RUSTICH added 10. However, both were limited to just a single field goal each in the second half. Steele Canyon: Casey Balikian 20 (8 ast, 5 reb, 2 stl), Dylan Kirchhofer 15 (6 ast, 2 blk, 1 stl, 1 reb), Michael Jordan 10 (5 reb, 3 stl, 1 blk), Cody Wells 8 (3 ast, 1 stl, 1 reb), P.J. Russell 2 (5 blk, 1 ast, 1 reb), Danny Bwinika 2 (2 reb, 1 stl), Daniel King 2 (2 stl, 1 reb), Justin Norwood 2 (1 reb), Tyler Gulino-Jones 2 (2 ast, 1 reb), Kenneth Hamilton (1 reb). Grossmont: Robby Nesovic 11 (7 reb, 5 ast, 4 blk, 2 stl), Derek Rustich 10 (9 reb, 1 ast), Bilal Rahim 8 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), J.T. Barnes 6 (3 reb), Jake Herrod 6 (2 ast, 1 stl, 1 reb), Austin Swisher 4 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Christian Meno 2 (1 reb). Thomas Lore (1 ast).

By Bill Dickens
© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (2-15-12) — Monte Vista High seniors JAMES JACKSON and DEVIN RENDO chortled and executed three high-fives following the Monarchs second two-point victory over visiting Mount Miguel Tuesday (Feb. 14) that clinched the Grossmont Valley League crown for their side.

“See that ‘96’ on the banner up there (on the gymnasium wall) that says the last time we won a league title, heck, I was 2 years old,” said the 6-foot-8 Jackson, who directed Monte Vista (20-6, 7-0 GVL) to a 54-52 victory. The Monarchs also won the first-round meeting, 48-46.

Jackson registered a game high 19 points, while pulling down 9 rebounds. Rendo collected 14 points and 7 rebounds, while jumping jack REUBEN NWANDO pitched in 10 points and snagged 7 rebounds.

“We’ve beaten Mount Miguel the last three times (including last year’s finale),” Rendo noted. “I think this is the best game we’ve played this year and that is a great feeling.”

After a jaw-to-jaw joust for three quarters, the Monarch bolted to a 54-44 advantage with 37 seconds left.

“I was so fired up it was like I had little James in my body jumping inside of me up and down,” Jackson said.

Credit Mount Miguel (21-6, 5-2 GVL) for a belated comeback that featured back-to-back three-pointers by MARCUS BOOKER.

“I don’t know how those guys like (Grossmont’s FRANK) FOGGIANO, and (Helix’s JOHN) SINGER hold up knowing they have a championship at hand,” Monte Vista coach JAMES CARROLL. “I know the job at hand, but I couldn’t get it out of my mind – I had trouble sleeping.”

The Monarchs have finished in a rush with 10 straight wins.

“One of our goals was to go undefeated in the Grossmont Conference and we should end up 11-0,” Carroll said.

Jackson scored 7 points in the final quarter and Rendo hammered down three buckets in the knockout of Mount Miguel (21-6, 5-2).

The defensive key was Monte Vista’s job on Mount Miguel’s IZZY WAGNER.

“We locked Izzy up and that was huge,” said Rendo, noting that the Monarchs’ zone defense rationed the Matadors junior guard to 2 points in the second half after pouring in 11 markers in the first two quarters.

Mount Miguel: Thomas Butler 18 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Izzy Wagner 13 (5 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Cory Littleton 11 (10 reb, 1 stl), Marcus Booker 7 (1 reb, 5 ast, 1 stl), Tony Wills 3 (3 reb), Malcolm Jackson (1 reb, 1 blk).

Monte Vista: James Jackson 19 (9 reb, 1 ast 2 blks, 1 stl), Devin Rendo 14 (7 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Reuben Nwando 10 (7 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Kylie Luster 4 (2 reb, 2 ast), Xavier Daniels 4 (1 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), K.J. Houston 3 (4 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), D’ondre Coleman (2 reb, 1 ast), Jahzdion Taylor (1 reb, 1 ast).

A.J. 'Baby Shaq' Allen (00) of Valhalla beats a trio of Helix defenders for the layin, including the block attempt from Kaelan Mitchell (23). The Scotties won Tuesday's GHL game to move back into title consideration, 63-43.. (Photo by Don DeMars)

WEST HILLS 59, GRANITE HILLS 50 – The Wolf Pack used a 22-9 fourth quarter spread to pull out Tuesday’s (Feb. 14) Grossmont Hills League victory over visiting Granite Hills.

It was Senior Night for the Wolf Pack and coaches JEFF ARMSTRONG and his son, assistant coach LUCAS ARMSTRONG started five seniors, although that didn’t work out real well in terms of producing a victory.

However, stable junior JONNY PRESTON took command of the floor upon coming off the bench, scoring a game-high 16 points go along with 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals for West Hills (14-11, 6-3 GHL).

Said Lucas Armstrong of Preston , “He’s the leader of our team.”

Probably the pinnacle of the game matched the Packs’ 6-foot-2 ALEX PARSONS and the Eagles’ 6-foot-9 SCOTT ATKINSON.

“He didn’t even make a single field goal against us,” said Lucas Armstrong, noting that Atkinson finished with only 2 points, both of which were free throws. “Even though Alex gave away seven inches, he used his body strength to jostle Atkinson all night.”

Granite Hills coach RANDY ANDERSON had his own opinions.

“Scott played about half of the game,” Anderson said. “He was in foul trouble pretty much from the start. They were collapsing on him and we didn’t hit the perimeter shots consistently enough (5-for-20).

“We battled hard, it was a nip-and-tuck game until the end. We just had too many turnovers and it kind of caught up to us at the end.”

In the fourth quarter West Hills’ JOEY CLARK hit two 3-pointers to help the Pack lock up the win.

STEPHEN KEPPEL hit 6 of 11 shots from the field to finish with 15 points and 11 rebounds for Granite Hills.

KYLE PIERSON popped in 11 points and snagged a team-high 13 rebounds for the Eagles (10-16, 1-8 GHL).

West Hills: Jonny Preston 16 (6 reb, 5 ast, 4 stl), Jeron Satterfield 9 (2 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Kevin Straub 9 (5 reb, 2 stl), Alex Parsons 9 (2 reb, 1 ast), Will Llamas 3 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Nick Findley 3 (1 reb, 1 ast), Ryan Williams 2 (7 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Justin Sun 2, Kevin McLaughlin (4 reb, 1 ast), D.J. Lewis (1 blk), Eric Fox (1 reb).

Granite Hills: Stephen Keppel 15 (11 reb), Kyle Pierson 11 (13 reb, 1 blk), D.J. Palomera 9 (1 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Koltin Higgins 6 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Danny Smith 4 (1 asst, 1 blk), Danny Densel 3 (1 reb), Scott Atkinson 2 (8 reb, 6 blk), Chris Meredith (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk).

HELIX 63, VALHALLA 43 – The Highlanders put the squeeze on Valhalla to create a tie with Grossmont High for the Grossmont Hills League championship Tuesday (Feb. 14) night.

The issue will be decided on Friday (Feb. 17) when these teams meet again at Grossmont High at 7 p.m.

Playing in championship games is nothing new to Helix (16-9, 7-2 GHL), which has won double digit crowns over the years. Thus the pressure of playing for a league title does not guarantee the Highlanders a championship over the Foothillers (14-11, 7-2 GHL). Rather it makes their egos even more eager to take the honors.

“This is one of the weirdest teams I’ve ever coached,” said Helix coach JOHN SINGER. “You never know where we’re going to come from.”

Helix will make its annual appearance in the playoffs but none of that concerns Singer.

“The problem with this team is they get a lead but they don’t know how they got it,” he said.

ROMARIO WILSON led the Highlanders with 17 points, while TITUS YOUNG contributed 14. BRIAN VALADEZ pitched in 10 markers. He also grabbed 10 rebounds, as did KENE ANIGBOGU.

“They shot really well – 51 percent from the field to our 26 percent,” said Valhalla coach KEITH JACKSON of the Highlanders. “We actually shot better from 3s than 2s. Give them credit – they were hitting their shots early. We fell behind and never could close it up down the stretch.”

A.J. ALLEN and DAVID GAZELLE shared top scoring honors for Valhalla with 13 apiece.

Helix: Romario Wilson 17 (8 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Titus Young 14 (5 reb, 2 stl), Brian Valadez 10 (10 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk), Kaelan Mitchell 9 (6 reb), Kene Anigbogu 6 (10 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Michael Todd 5 (2 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Vann Sabin 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Derrick Chandler (5 reb, 2 stl), Isaac Randall (1 reb), Will Mildenhall (1 reb), Christian Bell (1 stl), Ernesto Martinez (1 ast).

Valhalla: A.J. Allen 13 (6 reb, 2 stl), David Gazelle 13 (1 stl), Chris Shields 5 (4 reb), Spencer Havird 4 (4 reb, 2 ast, 2 blk), Matt Butcher 4 (4 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl),

Kevin Mills 2 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Josh McLenachen 2, Amil Hermiz (4 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Andrew Lozoya (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Nick Shamasha (1 reb), Ryan Ernsbarger (1 reb), Taylor Hammet (1 reb).

SANTANA 62, EL CAJON VALLEY 49 – The visiting Sultans snapped a 12-game losing streak in Tuesday’s (Feb. 14) Grossmont Valley League contest.

“The thing I liked most about this game is when I looked on the floor I saw four sophomores and one senior,” Santana coach TIM BARRY said. “That bodes well for our future.”

DANIEL LEVENS-LOWERY paced the Sultans with 13 points, while A.J. BRATLIEN grabbed a game-high 10 rebounds.

Santana: Daniel Levens-Lowery 13 (2 reb, 1 stl, 1 ast), Dustin Murphy 9 (6 reb, 2 ast), A.J. Bratlien 8 (10 reb, 3 stl, 3 ast), Jordan Vargas 8 (2 reb, 1 ast), Andy Miller 9 (2 reb, 1 stl, 1 ast), Christian Barry 4 (3 reb, 1 ast), David Albright 4 (2 reb, 1 ast), Mike Rosolino 3 (4 reb, 2 stl, 2 ast), Ryan Bratlien 3 (1 reb, 1 stl), James Doherty (1 ast).

El Cajon Valley: No report of stats or scoring from ECV.

FOOTHILLS CHRISTIAN 49, CV-CALVARY CHRISTIAN 37 – The course to winning the Sunset League championship Tuesday (Feb. 14) took a strange twist as the Knights wrapped up the crown with their 51st straight league victory – the third longest streak in San Diego CIF history.

The Knights (16-11, 10-0 SL), playing without hotshot guard DALTON MOSSER (broken wrist), set some sort of record when they won a game with their lowest total since defeating Ocean View Christian (then Midway Baptist) 46-33 on Valentine’s Day 2006.

CALEB HOFFMAN led the Knights with 15 points, while ANDRE JOHNSON and AUSTIN MOSTRONG contributed 13 and 12 points respectively. Johnson also had 7 rebounds.

Foothills Christian: Caleb Hoffman 15 (4 reb, 4 ast, 1 blk, 3 stl), Andre Johnson 13 (7 reb, 3 ast, 2 blk, 3 stl), Austin Mostrong 12 (4 reb), Joe Buenrestro 4 (2 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Nick Loudon 3 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), A.J. Hoffman 2 (3 reb, 1 stl).

By Bill Dickens
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (2-12-12) — When Foothills Christian High senior guard DALTON MOSSER arrived at Saturday’s (Feb. 11) non-league game against Christian High his right arm was in a sling.

That eye-catching stance posed a bevy of questions prior to tipoff.

To make a long story short, Mosser suffered a broken right wrist in a bicycle mishap Friday night which curtailed his high school career.

Mosser, who is averaging an East County best 29.3 points, had to watch from the bench as Christian claimed a 58-49 victory at the Ryan Athletic Center .

“Not having him out there playing for them took a lot of fire out of the game,” admitted Christian junior STEPHEN JOHNSTON said. “I thought we were awfully cautious and tentative in the first half. We picked up our defensive intensity in the second half and that made the difference.”

Playing without Mosser and three-point shooter RICKY ADAMS (out of town on a religious retreat), the Knights (15-11) managed a 13-10 first quarter lead and trailed only 24-23 at the break.

Christian (15-7) put more teeth in its trapping defense in the 3rd quarter and eventually opened up a 10-point lead. The Patriots, led by JASON GAINES (21 points, 15 rebounds) and SHANE DILLON (16 points, 10 rebounds), pushed their advantage to as many as 12 points before accepting the victory.

“Playing these guys is always fun,” said Johnson, who nailed a trio of 3-pointers. “I just wish they had been at full strength.”

Credit NICK LOUDON, who rang up a career high 19 points – the majority coming on 5-of-7 three-point shooting – to help keep the Knights in contention. He also led the team with 9 rebounds.

“I thought our kids played awfully hard,” said Knights coach BRAD LEAF. “For playing short-handed, I was pleased we were able to make a game of it.”

Christian: Jason Gaines 21 (15 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Shane Dillon 16 (10 reb, 3 ast, 2 blk, 1 stl), Stephen Johnston 9 (6 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Tyler Ballard 8 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Jake Larsen 2 (3 reb, 4 ast), Trenton Sauls 2 (4 reb), Phillip George (1 reb),

Foothills Christian: Nick Loudon 19 (9 reb, 1 stl), Caleb Hoffman 10 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Andre Johnson 8 (6 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl), Austin Mostrong 6 (3 reb, 1 stl), A.J. Hoffman 4 (1 reb, 2 ast), Joe Buenrestro 2 (6 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl).

OLYMPIAN 44, SANTANA 41 – The Sultans’ 4-18 record is somewhat misleading in that 10 of the Santee crew’s losses have come by five points or less. Furthermore, seven setbacks have been by three points or fewer, including Saturday’s (Feb. 11) Coaches vs. Cancer Tournament loss to Olympian at San Ysidro High.

“About half of our games have come down to one possession,” said Santana coach TIM BARRY. “We are that close . . . it’s frustrating with all the adversity we’ve had. But the kids haven’t given up. They play hard every time no matter what team we’re facing.”

A pair of free throws by senior DAVID ALBRIGHT pulled the Sultans even with the 17-8 Eagles at 41-all with 11 seconds remaining.

“We cut off penetration twice in those final seconds,” Barry said. “But then they got inside and made a kick out pass to some guy (Andre Vargas) who hadn’t scored all night, and he drills a three.”

Santana, which suffered its 12th straight loss, has not won a game since Dec. 21, 2011.

Santana: A.J. Bratlien 9 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Dustin Murphy 8 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Daniel Levens-Lowery 7 (3 reb), David Albright 5 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Mike Rosolino 4 (4 reb, 1 stl), Jason Corbisez 4 (1 reb), Christian Barry 2 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), James Doherty 2.

Wolf Pack shock Helix in overtime
Grossmont stands alone on top of GHL table
enteriing final week of the regular season

By Bill Dickens
© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (2-11-12) — When these two Grossmont Hills League rivals met for the first time on Jan. 20th, Helix hammered the Wolf Pack with an array of 3-point buckets leading up to a season high 85-57 score.

So the rematch Friday (Feb. 10) night in Santee figured to be no contest.

Wrong.

Credit the Wolf Pack for keeping control of the game this time around.

A 3-pointer by JONNY PRESTON proved to be the difference in overtime as the Pack sacked Helix 56-55 to create the potential for a tie in the Grossmont Hills League between Helix and Grossmont. With two games to play, West Hills (12-11, 4-3 GHL) is two games back.

Another key basket earlier in regulation by Preston was a steal and layup.

“He’s been making big plays for us on a regular basis,” said West Hills assistant coach LUCAS ARMSTRONG.

One of the unsung heroes for the Wolf Pack was rangy 6-foot-5 KEVIN McLAUGHLIN who – during regulation – denied the inbound pass by the Highlanders two or three times. That caused the Highlanders eventually to force up a weak shot at the end of regulation.

Both teams agreed that this game could have been decided earlier as Helix led by 8 with 2 minutes to play.

“Give West Hills credit,” said Helix coach JOHN SINGER. “We had them beat with 2 minutes to play and we let up and they didn’t.”

“Probably the key point of the game was that we were able to limit (Helix scoring leaders) BRIAN VALADEZ and TITUS YOUNG to a single field goal over the final three quarters and in overtime,” said Armstrong. “Yeah, they made some free throws but I thought our free throws held them in check.”

West Hills: Kevin Straub 14 (3 reb, 3 ast), Nick Findley 11 (1 reb, 1 ast), Jonny Preston 9 (4 eb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Alex Parsons 7 (4 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Ryan Williams 3 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Jeron Satterfield 3 (7 reb, 3 ast), D.J. Lewis 4 (3 reb), Joey Clark 3 (1 reb), Will Llamas 2 (1 reb), Kevin McLaughlin (2 reb, 1 blk), Chase Parsons (1 reb).

Helix: Brian Valadez 13 (12 reb, 1 ast, 8 stl), Titus Young 11 (4 reb, 6 ast, 4 stl), Michael Todd 9 (2 reb, 5 ast, 1 stl), Romario Wilson 8 (5 reb, 3 stl, 1 blk), Kene Anigbogu 5 (9 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Derrick Chandler 4 (4 reb), Kaelan Mitchell 3 (2 ast), Isaac Randall 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Will Mildenhall (4 reb, 1 stl).

El Capitan's Kameron Brown (21) releases a baseline shot over the extended arms of Mount Miguel forward Malcolm Jackson. (Photo by Leslie Autry)

MOUNT MIGUEL 62, EL CAPITAN 47 – IZZY WAGNER knocked down 15 of 16 free throws to blunt an aggressive El Capitan defense in the Matador’s Grossmont Valley League victory over the Lakesiders Friday (Feb. 10) night.

It was a key victory for Mount Miguel (21-5, 5-1 GVL) as it allowed the Matadors to remain one game behind Spring Valley rival Monte Vista heading into Tuesday’s (Feb. 14) Valentine Day showdown.

“We knew we needed to win this game to set up the Monte Vista game,” said Wagner, who finished with a game-high 22 points against the Vaqueros.

While Wagner’s offensive production was impressive, his defense was probably even better as he hassled El Capitan scoring machine TYSON KYGAR, holding him to 13 points – more than 10 below his season average.

“He’s supposed to be the East County scoring leader, so I locked down on him,” Wagner said. “I wasn’t gonna let him beat us.”

CORY LITTLETON added 12 points and 9 rebounds for the Matadors, while MARCUS BOOKER, who has been hampered with a high ankle sprain, looked pretty solid with 11 points and 5 rebounds.

THOMAS BUTLER grabbed 10 boards for the Matadors, while TONY WILLS hit a pair of key 3-pointers.

“Kygar is a good player and we know that,” said Mount Miguel coach JAY ROWLETT. “Our goal against him is to keep the ball out of his hands.

“I think overall the first three quarter of this game we played as good a defense as we have all season.”

Mount Miguel led 44-23 after three periods against the Vaqueros.

A standout performance for El Capitan was registered by 6-foot-6 senior KAMERON BROWN, who led the Vaqueros (18-9, 4-3 GVL) with 16 points, 5 rebounds and 7 blocks.

Mount Miguel: Izzy Wagner 22 (4 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Cory Littleton 12 (9 reb), Marcus Booker 11 (5 reb, 2 ast), Thomas Butler 6 (10 reb, 2 ast), Tony Wills 6 (7 reb, 1 stl), Malcolm Jackson 3 (2 reb), Marcellus Jones 2 (2 reb, 1 ast), Jaz Woodard (4 reb).

El Capitan: Kameron Brown 16 (5 reb, 3 ast, 7 blk, 2 stl), Tyson Kygar 13 (2 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Nestor Ramirez 11 (5 reb, 5 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Austin Betts 7 (5 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Scott Root (2 reb), Scott Ross (1 stl).

Bottom line, though, is the Foothillers (14-10, 7-1 GHL) nailed 8 three-pointers to send the Norsemen packing.

A major impact for Grossmont was the shooting of JAKE HERROD, who registered a career high 16 points, which included 4 treys.

Nesovic did a brilliant job of driving and dishing to his teammates.

“That is why Robby is the most complete player in our league,” Grossmont coach FRANK FOGGIANO said.

Most notable about Grossmont’s win over Valhalla was the Foothillers did so without the services of junior pivot DEREK RUSTICH, who missed the game due to illness.

Overall the Foothillers were 8-for-16 from 3-point land. J.T. BARNES was 3-for-3 from long distance as he finished with 9 points.

BILAL RAHIM crashed the boards for a game-best 13 rebounds for Grossmont.

Valhalla struggled from all distances, hitting just 16 of 54 from the floor.

In one of the most physical games of the season, Grossmont took the lead for good in the third quarter 31-29.

The Norsemen received a team-best 13 points from SPENCER HAVIRD, 11 from KEVIN MILLS and 10 from ANDREW LOZOYA.

It’s not surprising that Valhalla scores from the outside. The outcome for the Norsemen is usually decided by how well they play in the paint, which was mediocre at best against the Foothillers (14-10, 7-1 GHL).

“We did a good job of controlling Nesovic but they the same token he did a good job of distributing the ball to their perimeter shooters,” Norsemen coach KEITH JACKSON said. “It’s been tough for us all season because we play positive for the majority of the game only to lose at the end. Playing without reward really makes it tough.”

Grossmont: Robby Nesovic 16 (7 reb, 4 ast, 6 stl, 2 blk), Jake Herrod 16 (2 reb, 3 ast), J.T. Barnes 9 (8 reb, 2 ast), Bilal Rahim 8 (13 reb, 3 ast, 2 blk), Austin Swisher 7 (5 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Anthony Lawrence (1 reb).

Valhalla: Spencer Havird 13 (5 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Kevin Mills 11 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Andrew Lozoya 10 (2 reb, 2 blk, 1 stl), Chris Shields 9 (5 reb, 1 blk, 2 stl),

A.J. Allen 4 (11 reb, 6 blk), Matt Butcher 1 (2 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Amil Hermiz (2 reb), Taylor Hammet (1 ast).

MONTE VISTA 72, EL CAJON VALLEY 44 – Looking ahead was not a problem for the Monte Vista Monarchs, who cut down host El Cajon Valley in Friday’s (Feb. 10) Grossmont Valley League contest.

The Monarchs (19-6, 6-0 GVL), who have won 13 of their last 14 games, burst to a 42-22 halftime edge and then cruised to the finish line, setting the stage for Tuesday’s (Feb. 14) GVL championship bout against Mount Miguel.

“We jumped out to a 12-point lead right away,” Monte Vista coach JAMES CARROLL said. “We held a double-digit lead most of the game. We were a little rusty at the start because we had not played a game for seven days.”

Monte Vista’s JAMES JACKSON reeled off a double-double of 22 points and 10 rebounds, while DEVIN RENDO turned in similar numbers with 12 points and 10 rebounds.

“Rendo made an ESPN type dunk off a fastbreak as he slammed the ball over his defender,” Carroll said. “He was called for a charge, but I still have to applaud his effort since it put a charge in our play.”

K.J. HOUSTON added 10 points, 7 rebounds and 5 steals for Monte Vista.

The Monarchs also held the Braves’ sharp-hooter ANDRE NIKITA to 9 points

Monte Vista: James Jackson 22 (10 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 3 stl), Reuben Nwando 15 (4 reb, 1 ast), Devin Rendo 12 (10 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), K.J. Houston 10 (7 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 5 stl), Kylie Luster 6 (3 reb), D’ondre Coleman 4 (1 ast, 2 stl), Justin Brandy 2 (1 reb), Brendan Harris 1, Xavier Daniels (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Hasani Jarvis (2 reb, 1 blk, 2 stl), Jahzdion Taylor (1 ast).

El Cajon Valley: Andre Nikita 9, Laqman Sulyman 9, Deshe Tibbs 6, Brenden Brocious 6, Deon Kelly 4, Edon Lushi 3, Alex Jacinto 4, Johnta 2, Jeremiah Patton 1.

CHRISTIAN 57, CLAIREMONT 46 – The Central League championship is well within reach of the Christian Patriots (14-7, 8-2 CLT).

SHANE DILLON led the Patriots with 28 points and 14 rebounds in the conquest of the Chieftains.

“Our destiny is in our hands,” Christian coach KELVIN STARR. “If we win out (league games against Crawford and Pt. Loma) we will be league champions.

“This is the position where want to be. It is ours for the taking.”

Christian: Shane Dillon 28 (1 reb, 3 ast, 4 blk, 1 stl), Jason Gaines 12 (8 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Stephen Johnston 5 (6 reb, 2 stl), Jake Larsen 4 (1 reb, 4 ast, 3 blk, 6 stl), Phillip George 3 (4 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Tyler Ballard 2 (2 reb), Trenton Sauls 1 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl).

© East County Sports.com
NATIONAL CITY (2-10-12) — The streaks continue for the Foothills Christian Knights, who slugged San Diego Academy, 68-41, in Thursday’s (Feb. 9) Sunset League activity.

It was the 50th consecutive league win for the Knights (15-10, 9-0 SL), who clinched their fifth straight circuit championship. They have not lost a league encounter since 2005-06 when they were known as Venture Christian. The Knights played as an independent entry in 2007-08 and finished 23-10.

The following year, the San Diego CIF mandated the school to play in a league and thus the Knights played in the weak Citrus South League.

The 50 wins ties Foothills Christian with Sweetwater (1981-85) for the fourth-longest league unbeaten streak in San Diego CIF history. Only Lincoln (54, in 1985-93), Horizon (52, 1995-2001), and Carlsbad (51, 1962-66) own a longer skein.

Meanwhile, in the first half at San Diego Academy, the Knights did not look or play like a championship team as they shot 27 percent yet led the Cavaliers (14-5, 7-2 SL) by a 24-14 count.

RICKY ADAMS was 4-for-4 from three-point range to ring up 12 points for the Knights.

Foothills Christian: Dalton Mosser 28 (11 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl, 1 blk), Caleb Hoffman 15 (7 reb, 1 ast), Ricky Adams 12 (3 stl, 1 blk), Andre Johnson 9 (8 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk, 6 stl), A.J. Hoffman 2 (4 reb), Joe Buenrestro 2 (1 ast), Nick Loudon (1 reb, 3 stl, 1 blk), Austin Mostrong (1 reb).

Santana's Daniel Levens-Lowery scoops home the layin during Tuesday's game vs El Capitan. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Patriots retain focus for non-league win By Nick Pellegrino © East County Sports.com LA JOLLA (2-8-12) — It's a wonder why coaches continue to schedule non-league ballgames in any sport so late in the season. And with predictable results. Lack of focus. Lack of intensity. And often, a lack of victories at a time when vallclubs strive to gain momentum for the playoffs. "We gave up a lot of penetration and a ton of shots," Christian High senior JAKE LARSEN said. "But we locked down their point guard, which is what we've worked on at practice." Despite allowing an unsightly 28 points in the first quarter Tuesday (Feb. 7), the Patriots finally overcame an array of obstacles to eventually slip past The Bishop's School in the final minute, 76-73, at Fleet Center. The Bishop's guard Dominique Watkins tallied 18 first-half points, but when he was limited to a single free throw following the intermission, Christian finally found a seam to move in front. "We let them drive -- we couldn't stop them -- so in the second half, we attacked them in the paint," noted Patriots center JASON GAINES. "We kept pushing it." Christian finally grabbed the lead as the third-quarter buzzer sounded on a 3-point goal by Gaines, which came moments after a drive for a slam dunk by SHANE DILLON on a nice feed from STEPHEN JOHNSTON. The rally to take a 55-54 advantage was keyed on the defensive end, featuring solid rebounding while PHILLIP GEORGE took a charge to force a turnover. The fourth period featured 11 of Dillon's game-high 27 points, but it was Larsen who poured home the key scoring to help Christian finally snap a 66-all logjam over the final two minutes. Larsen drove the lane for a left-handed layin and added three straight free throws, starting a game-winning 8-0 run. Dillon added a deep 4-point goal during the run, then capped the victory with another dunk while being fouled in the final second. The Bishop's received a thrill when Peter Alexander rebounded Dillon's missed meaningless foul shot, draining a 75-foot bomb to halve the deficit at the buzzer. For Dillon, it was a strong homecoming effort in returning to The Bishop's, where he played as a freshman, including late-season time on the varsity when the Knights captured the SDCIF Division IV championship. Meanwhile, the Central League leading Patriots (13-7) found out why head coach KELVIN STARR placed The Bishop's on their schedule. "Bishop's plays a similar style to Point Loma, so this should help us get ready – it was huge," added Larsen. Christian's remaining Central League contests feature both last-place teams and Point Loma, thus, a 3-0 sweep would give them the league crown. "Point Loma will be a big game," Gaines noted. "We're not expecting them to hand the game over to us, so we're going to need to fight in order to win." For Bishop's, Dominique Love posted 18 points, Jamere Jones added 15, while Alexander reached double figures on his length-of-the-court shot with 11. Christian: Shane Dillon 27 (12 reb, 4 ast, 2 blk, 2 stl), Jason Gaines (22 (8 reb, 4 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Jake Larsen 15 (4 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Stephen Johnston 5 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Tyler Ballard 4 (2 reb, 1 blk), Phillip George 3 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (2-8-12) — It wasn’t the shot that the Vaqueros planned but it proved to be the difference in El Capitan’s 46-44 Grossmont Valley League victory on Tuesday (Feb. 7) at Santana.

With score tied 44-all and 15 seconds remaining, the Vaqueros executed a game plan that would make sharpshooter TYSON KYGAR the hero.

Santana was determined not to let Kygar beat them, and they were successful. However, for some reason they forgot about 6-foot-6 senior KAMERON BROWN.

“They all jumped on Tyson,” said El Capitan coach JASON CAVAZOS. “He set a screen and Brown slipped the screen, got the pass and went in for the layup with 6 seconds left.”

Some might say that was great coaching but Cavazos did not take a bow.

Brown finished with 10 points and 11 rebounds for the Vaqueros (18-8, 4-2 GVL).

“I don’t know what it is about this team but we always seem to find a way to win,” Cavazos said. “They had a box-and-1 on Tyson the whole game but he came away with 13 points and kept them busy all night.”

AUSTIN BETTS added 11 points for the Vaqueros.

“We accomplished what we wanted to do on Kygar,” said Santana coach TIM BARRY. “We ran a box-and-1. We missed a lot of free throws and they made theirs. The tempo of the game went our way – when you’re short-handed you have to devise strategy.”

El Capitan: Tyson Kygar 13 (8 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl), Austin Betts 11 (2 reb, 2 ast), Kameron Brown 10 (17 reb, 2 ast, 3 blk), Nestor Ramirez 7 (2 reb, 5 ast, 4 stl), Scott Ross 3 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Travis Hulsey 2 (5 reb, 1 ast), Scott Root (4 reb).

Santana: Dustin Murphy 11 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), A.J. Bratlien 10 (2 reb, 2 ast), Daniel Levens-Lowery 8 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Jason Corbisez 7 (5 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Mike Rosolino 6 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), David Albright 2 (2 reb), Christian Barry (4 ast, 1 reb, 2 stl), James Doherty (1 ast).

Valhalla's Matt Butcher (3) releases a shot over Donovan Habib of Steele Canyon. (Photo by Don DeMars)

STEELE CANYON 57, VALHALLA 41 – MICHAEL JORDAN celebrated his 18th birthday Tuesday (Feb. 7) as the Cougars downed visiting Valhalla in a Grossmont Hills League game.

The 6-foot Jordan punched in a season best 21 points, including 10 field goals.

“Without doubt this was one of MJ’s most dominating performances,” said Steele Canyon coach DEREK STEPHENS.

Stephens saw his Cougars end a four-game losing slide and win for only the second time in their last nine starts.

Steele Canyon (10-14, 2-5 GHL) sprinted out to leads of 7-0, 18-9 and 31-21 by intermission.

Turnovers handcuffed the Norsemen (7-17, 2-5 GHL)

“We threw it away 14 times in the first half and 19 for the game,” Valhalla coach KEITH JACKSON said.

Steele Canyon: Michael Jordan 21, Cody Wells 10, Casey Balikian 9, Daniel King 6, Dylan Kirchhofer 4, Justin Norwood 4, Danny Bwinika 3.

Valhalla: Matt Butcher 12 (6 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Spencer Havird 7 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), A.J. Allen 7 (4 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Andrew Lozoya 6 (4 reb, 3 ast), Kevin Mills 3 (1 blk, 3 stl), Amil Hermiz 2 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), David Gazelle 2 (2 reb, 1 stl), Chris Shields 2 (1 reb), Taylor Hammet (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Josh McLenachen (1 stl),

HELIX 65, GRANITE HILLS 50 – Six-foot-9 Granite Hills senior SCOTT ATKINSON painted one of East County’s most brilliant triple doubles in Tuesday’s (Feb. 7) Grossmont Valley League game against Helix cranking out 18 points, 12 rebounds and 11 blocks.

Spectacular for sure, but it was not nearly enough as the Highlanders (14-8, 5-1 GHL) prevailed to maintain their share of the circuit lead with perennial power Grossmont. Three games remain on all GHL schedules before the playoffs begin.

“We did a decent job of taking away the perimeter,” Helix coach JOHN SINGER said. “But it seems like every time we attempted to seal off the paint Granite Hills found a way to the basket.”

Decent?” How about a 23-point lead at one stretch of the 3rd quarter.

BRIAN VALADEZ 22 (6 reb, 3 ast, 7 stl, 2 blk) and TITUS YOUNG 16 (7 ast, 4 stl), carried the torch for Helix.

Granite Hills: Scott Atkinson 18 (12 reb, 11 blk, 1 ast, 1 stl,), Koltin Higgins 9 (3 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk), Kyle Pierson 9 (5 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Stephen Keppel 8 (5 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk), D.J. Palomera 2 (1 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Danny Smith 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Alonzo Beepath 2 (3 reb), Wes Wehrman (1 ast), Danny Densel (1 blk).

Mount Miguel center Thomas Butler posts up against El Cajon Valley. Butler posted in a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds in the 53-36 triumph. (Photo by Daniel Salinas,MMHS student) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

The Matadors (20-5, 4-1 GVL) limited the Braves (8-13, 1-5 GVL) to five points in the first half but did not turn the game into a rout before erupting for a 24-9 scoring advantage in the 3rd period, providing Mount Miguel a 42-14 spread.

THOMAS BUTLER and IZZY WAGNER dropped in 13 points apiece to pace Mount Miguel ’s balanced attack. Butler hauled down 10 rebounds.

Yet it was Mount Miguel ’s defense that excited Matadors coach JAY ROWLETT. The focus to Mount Miguel ’s stoppage was Wagner’s slapping the clamps on El Cajon Valley ’s ANDRE NIKITA, who settled for 12 points – six below his season average.

“Izzy did a good job on Nikita,” said Rowlett, who is eying his third straight GHL crown. “When we play the kind of defense we did tonight, we are a pretty good basketball team.”

Mount Miguel: Thomas Butler 13 (10 reb, 3 stl), Izzy Wagner 13 (6 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl), Tony Wills 9 (1 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Cory Littleton 6 (11 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Marcellus Jones 6 (2 ast, 2 stl), Jaz Woodard 6 (3 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Malcolm Jackson (2 reb, 1 stl).

El Cajon Valley: Brenden Brocious 12, Andre Nikita 12, Alex Jacinto 7, Jeremiah Patton 3, Deshe Tibbs 2, Ibraham Ali 2.

GROSSMONT 56, WEST HILLS 44 – When the Foothillers have their perimeter shooters locked in, the inside trio of DEREK RUSTICH, ROBBY NESOVIC and BILAL RAHIM is usually able to cover the spread as they did in Tuesday’s (Feb. 7) Grossmont Hills League showdown against West Hills.

Rustich rolled a double-double of 18 points and 16 rebounds while Nesovic followed suit with a double-double of his own, scoring 11 points and grabbing 11 rebounds.

“We burned them in the first and third quarters (28-16),” said Grossmont coach FRANK FOGGIANO. “Not many teams think of us as a 3-point shooting team even though we made 7 long rangers against West Hills.”

On the flip side West Hills made only one trey.

Grossmont: Derek Rustich 18 (16 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Robby Nesovic 11 (11 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Austin Swisher 10 (8 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), J.T. Barnes 7 (6 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Jake Herrod 6 (3 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Bilal Rahim 4 (5 reb, 1 stl).

West Hills: Jonny Preston 17 (2 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Jeron Satterfield 13 (7 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk), Kevin Straub 5 (4 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Chase Parsons 3, Joey Clark 2 (1 reb), Nick Findley 2 (1 reb, 1 ast), Alex Parsons 2 (4 reb, 2 blk), Kevin McLaughlin (1 reb).

The 6-foot Mosser has scored 224 points in his last six games for an average of 37.3 ppg. He landed 12 of 23 from the field in Tuesday’s (Feb. 7) romp over Kuyper Prep's Admirals, held at San Diego Academy in National City.

Foothills Christian: Dalton Mosser 35 (7 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Andre Johnson 19 (7 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 4 stl), Joe Buenrestro 9 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Caleb Hoffman 6 (2 reb, 4 ast, 4 stl), Nick Loudon 6 (1 ast, 4 stl), Austin Mostrong 6 (4 reb), Ricky Adams 2 (3 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), A.J. Hoffman 2 (2 reb, 1 stl).

Foothills Christian's Andre Johnson (left) rejects the shot by Santana's Jason Corbisez in a 71-66 win. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

View Our Updated PHOTO GALLERY

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (2-5-12) — Seems there is no stopping East County scoring leader DALTON MOSSER of Foothills Christian High.

For the second time in 24 hours, the Knights senior guard hammered down 38 points as the Knights claimed a 71-66 non-league victory over Santana, Saturday (Feb. 4) at Granite Hills High.

Santana (4-16) trailed 63-61 when the Sultans CHRISTIAN BARRY missed a free throw. The ball was rebounded by Santana and kicked out to BARRY for an 8-foot jumper to tie the game with 1:04 remaining in regulation.

With 58 seconds left Mosser drained a 3-pointer giving Foothills a 66-63 lead. JOE BUENTROSRO then played pressure defense knocking the ball away in the back court and forcing a Santana turnover with 38.7 to play. CALEB HOFFMAN was fouled with 29.2 to play and made one free throw leaving the game at 67-63.

Foothills Christian's Dalton Mosser (left). (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com)

Santana then turned the ball over for a third consecutive time with 23.6 to play and Mosser sank both free throws to give FCHS a 70-63 lead.

The Sultans’ MIKE ROSOLINO then hit the last of his 5 threes to make the game 70-66 with about 5.0 to play and Mosser sank the first of two free throws to complete the final margin.

Rosolino led Santana with 20 points, one shy of his season high. A.J. BRATLEIN coined a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds.

“It was a big crowd and a fun atmosphere,” Santana coach TIM BARRY.

The game was tied at 51 all after three periods.

In the first quarter, Santana out-rebounded Foothills, 13-7, which helped the score stay tied at 16 through the opening eight minutes. Mosser’s scores by quarter were 8 (2 threes), 8 (4-6 Free Throws), 10 (two threes) and 12.

With the game tied at 57 all and 4:30 to play ANDRE JOHNSON missed the second of two free throws to leave the game tied. FCHS missed several FT on the night.

With 2:12 to play DUSTIN MURPHY for Santana hit a jumper to give Santana a 61-59 lead and Mosser answered at the other end to tie the game again.

Santana hit 10 threes in the game. In addition to Rosolino, ANDY MILLER hit 2 triples, A.J. BRATLIEN logged 1, and his freshman bother RYAN BRATLIEN made 2.

Looks like FCHS was 19-35 on FT for 54 percent. This has actually been the best free throw shooting FCHS team has had for the last 6 years prior to tonight.

The keys to the game were Santana settling for three pointers, although they hit 10, they failed to drive to the basket and attempt to draw fouls which would have put FCHS in a much deeper trouble with a limited roster.

Foothills also turned the ball over just 10 times to about 20 for Santana. FCHS drove to the basket and hit the three but they did not limit their game to outside shooting and probably didn't draw nearly the amount of calls they could have.

Foothills Christian: Dalton Mosser 38 (14 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 4 stl), Caleb Hoffman 17 (5 reb, 6 ast, 3 stl), Andre Johnson 12 (8 reb, 2 ast, 3 blk), Joe Buenrestro 2 (2 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), A.J. Hoffman 2 (4 reb), Ricky Adams (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Austin Mostrong (1 reb, 1 stl), Nick Loudon (1 blk).

Santana: Mike Rosolino 20 (3 reb, 1 ast), A.J. Bratlien 10 (9 reb, 4 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Jason Corbisez 8 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Dustin Murphy 8 (4 reb, 1 ast), Andy Miller 8 (2 reb), Ryan Bratlien 6 (1 reb), Christian Barry 2 (3 ast, 3 reb), James Doherty (2 reb, 2 ast), David Albright 2 (1 reb, 1 ast), Jordan Vargas 2 (2 reb), Daniel Levens-Lowery (2 ast).

HOOVER 73, MOUNT MIGUEL 38 – This battle of Top 10 teams did not provide the suspense that was expected in Saturday’s (Feb. 4) non-league joust at Hoover.

The visiting Matadors were virtually without slick-handing point guard MARCUS BOOKER, who was hobbled by an ankle injury and participated only for a handful of minutes. That left Mount Miguel (19-5) basically defenseless against No. 2-ranked Hoover ’s relentless pressure defense.

“They pressed us out of the gym because we cannot handle pressure without Marcus in there,” Matadors coach JAY ROWLETT said. “Injuries are just part of the game. It is a matter of how you deal with them. Nobody feels sorry for us. Our job is to get ready for this last (four-game) league push. That why we took Marcus out early in this game.”

THOMAS BUTLER rolled a double-double of 11 points and 11 rebounds in defeat. IZZY WAGNER paced the Matadors with 14 points, the majority coming on 10-for-10 free throw shooting. CORY LITTLETON banked the boars for a dozen rebounds.

Mount Miguel: Izzy Wagner 14 (2 reb), Thomas Butler 11 (11 reb), James Jackson 4 (4 reb), Marcellus Jones 3 (1 ast), Cory Littleton 2 (12 reb, Marcus Booker 2 (4 ast), Jaz Woodard 2, Tony Wills (1 stl), 1 stl).

	Mission: Improbable Shutout in the second quarter, last-place Eagles rally to shock front-running Hillers By Bill Dickens © East County Sports.com EL CAJON (2-4-12) — When the Granite Hills Eagles were shut out 11-0 in the second quarter of Friday’s (Feb. 3) encounter by the Grossmont Hills League-leading Foothillers of Grossmont, another victory seemed within the grasp of coach FRANK FOGGIANO’s front-runners. “I wasn’t overly concerned at that point since we were behind only 17-16 at halftime,” said Granite Hills coach RANDY ANDERSON. Oh, but the fun was just beginning in front of a boisterous full house at Granite Hills. The Eagles (10-13, 1-5 GHL), who once led by 10 points, appeared to have the game won when 6-foot-9 senior center SCOTT ATKINSON knocked down a pair of free throws between a bevy of Grossmont timeouts called by Foggiano. Foggiano’s first time out call came with 7.4 seconds remaining in regulation and the Hillers clinging to a 41-40 lead. After Atkinson stepped to the stripe to swish the tying marker, Foggiano called three consecutive time outs. “I’ve never seen that many time outs called in a row,” Atkinson said. “I kept telling myself as I was standing around that I couldn’t miss – that it was just like practice.” Even after that delay of the game, Atkinson dropped in a foul shot that gave Granite Hills a 42-41 edge. The officials, however, claimed the man with the size 15 shoe had created a lane violation, erasing the game-winning free throw and leaving the game tied 41-all. The crowd screamed in pandemonium. Didn’t matter. Call stood. “I knew I didn’t move my feet at the line,” Atkinson said. “It wasn’t like I was taking a jump shot.” Instead of suffering an emotional fold due to the unusual call, Granite Hills outscored Grossmont (11-10, 5-1 GHL) by a 14-5 count in overtime for a 55-46 victory. Spark plug guard D.J. PALOMERA, who paced the Eagles with 15 points, tallied 5 points in the 4th quarter and 5 more in OT. “This is the most exciting game of our season so far,” said Palomera, who added 5 rebounds, 4 steals and 3 assists to his totals. “These guys (Grossmont) killed us the first time we played them (59-45).” KOLTIN HIGGINS landed four 3-pointers, all but one coming in the 4th quarter and OT for Granite Hills. “I think the biggest difference this time is we did a better job of denying the ball to the post,” Palomera said. Palomera and Higgins shared their defensive efforts in harassing Grossmont’s post men ROBBY NESOVIC (16 points on 5-for-20 shooting) and DEREK RUSTICH (4 points). “I think both of their bigs were more interested in trying to foul me out than scoring,” Atkinson said. “They kept dropping their shoulders and banging into me, hoping to get a call. I guess that strategy backfired on them.” Uncharacteristically, both Nesovic and Rustich fouled out – Rustich in the fourth quarter and Nesovic in the overtime. Granite Hills’ Anderson would not come right out and say it but indicated this was probably the Eagles’ biggest win of the season. “With all of the adversity we’ve had in terms of lost players and injuries, I cannot say I’m more proud of my team than I am tonight,” Anderson said. “Our defensive tenacity was as good as it has been in any game this season.” Granite Hills: D.J. Palomera 15 (5 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Koltin Higgins 12 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Scott Atkinson 11 (8 reb, 1 ast, 4 blk), Stephen Keppel 11 (8 reb, 1 ast), Kyle Pierson 6 (8 reb), Danny Densel (2 ast), Danny Smith (1 reb), Alonzo Beepath (1 reb, 1 ast). Grossmont: Robby Nesovic 16 (9 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), Austin Swisher 11 (8 reb, 1 stl), Bilal Rahim 9 (11 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), J.T. Barnes 6 (7 reb, 1 stl), Derek Rustich 4 (3 reb, 1 ast), Jake Herrod (2 reb, 2 ast), Christian Meno (3 reb), Ryan Cooksey (1 reb).
	West Hills' Jonny Preston (right) rejects the shot by Amil Hermiz of Valhalla. The Wolf Pack survived to win in overtime. (Frank Price photo, youatplay.com) ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE MORE PHOTOS HERE, By Ruth Mims
	For Wolf Pack, Norsemen, close is just another day at the office By Andrew Smith © East County Sports.com EL CAJON (2-4-12) — Close calls are routine in the Grossmont Hills League this season. But none of the teams in that circuit can play it any tighter than West Hills and Valhalla. In two league engagements, these teams have played three overtimes with the Wolf Park garnering a pair of two-point victories over the Norsemen. Coming down to the wire it looked like a second overtime was going to be needed to determine a winner in the rematch. But with 2.2 seconds left on the clock senior KEVIN STRAUB was fouled on a three-point attempt that sent him to the line. After missing his first attempt the crowd decibel level reached dangerous levels. “I definitely felt the pressure when the entire gym was screaming at me,” Straub said. “After I missed the first I knew I had two more chances so I just kept saying swish to myself in my head over and over.” Straub was on the mark in his next two tosses giving West Hills (12-10 overall, 4-2 GHL) a 58-56 overtime victory. “We play a free-throw game in practice,” West Hills assistant coach LUCAS ARMSTRONG noted. “The kids get pretty crazy trying to distract each other so I wasn't too worried about Kevin. He's a four-year varsity starter so he's seen it all before.” West Hills' JERON SATTERFIELD led the Wolf Pack by posting a double-double of 10 points and 11 boards but didn't want to see it come down to a judge’s decision for the victory. “We've been in a lot of close games lately,” he said. “It's a really good feeling to come out on top this time. This was a great win for us.” “That's 3-0 for us in overtime,” Armstrong said. “But none of us as coaches want to be put in that situation. We still haven't seen our kids play their best game yet so that's exciting.” ANDREW LOZOYA hoisted in 18 points for the Norsemen on 7-of-10 shooting and A.J. ALLEN was a beast inside all night as he proved big men can show touch around the basket and know how to tango in the lane adding 14 points and 10 rebounds to go along with 5 blocks. “It was definitely the best game of the year for AJ,” Norsemen coach KEITH JACKSON said. “He was a major factor down low and he stayed out of foul trouble all night long, which is huge for us.” West Hills edged Valhalla 67-65 in double overtime last month. West Hills: Kevin Straub 12 (4 reb, 3 ast), Nick Findley 12 (1 reb, 2 stl), Jeron Satterfield 10 (11 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Jonny Preston 9 (6 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Alex Parsons 8 (3 reb, 2 ast), Ryan Williams 4 (7 reb), Martin Panayotov 3 (1 reb, 1 ast), Joey Clark (2 reb, 1 ast), D.J. Lewis (1 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk). Valhalla: Andrew Lozoya 18 (3 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), A.J. Allen 14 (10 reb, 5 blk), Matt Butcher 9 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Spencer Havird 7 (5 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Kevin Mills 6 (4 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Amil Hermiz 2 (2 ast, 1 stl), Chris Shields (2 reb, 2 blk), Taylor Hammett (2 reb).

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
LINDA VISTA (2-4-12) — The only good news for the Christian Patriots came upon their arrival home from a difficult 58-55 setback at Kearny on Friday (Feb. 3) night.

The Patriots, the season-long leader of the Central League, believed they dropped from the top spot after failing to score late, suffering their second recent league setback following a perfect 6-0 slate through the first round of the Central schedule.

However, when it was learned that Point Loma also fell – another nailbiter in a 42-39 defeat to Coronado – it meant Christian maintained a narrow lead of the league in what is now a wide-open race in the tightest pennant chase in the CIF San Diego Section.

Christian and Point Loma remain in a virtual tie on top with two league losses each, but now are challenged by Kearny and Coronado, both solid defensive units which now rest behind the leaders at 6-3.

"We’ve got to win out," Patriots coach KELVIN STARR said (in order to capture the league title). "But give credit to Kearny, they were really good defensively, too."

Still, the Patriots allowed their own solid defensive effort in the second half go to waste when the team failed to convert on the other end of the court.

Included was forcing a turnover on a 10-second violation in the backcourt thanks to the hustle by JAKE LARSEN, with the assistance of JASON GAINES on the final trap to prevent a pass over the centerline with 21 seconds left in a 56-55 contest.

However, the momentum swing failed to materialize when Christian twice turned the ball over in an attempt to release a game-winning shot in the closing seconds.

"Whenever you force a 10-second call, it's all about heart," Christian senior SHANE DILLON explained. "It's a shame we couldn't get a score or a basket off it. Sometimes, the ball doesn't go in the hoop."

Gaines poured in 11 of his 16 points in the first half, as Christian overcame a slow start to score 24 second-quarter points to secure a 31-25 halftime lead. However, balanced scoring by the Komets in the second half, finally allowed the hosts to grab a 54-52 lead on a putback bucket by Ben Moa with 2:36 remaining.

Christian then had four opportunities to get even or more ahead, but 1-for-4 shooting from the field, 1-for-3 on free throws and a pair of turnovers stalled the offense down the stretch.

"The 10-second call could've been a heartbreaker," said Kearny senior Richie Knight. "We kept working hard because we were mad about our last game with them -- we worked hard to get here and get a win."

The revitalized Komets feel they earned a shot to gain a share of the league title by avenging a first-round loss at Christian in double overtime.

"Last time, we weren't clutch in the third quarter, the fourth quarter, or the overtimes," added Kearny guard Cameron Denton. "This win is a good motivational booster for us."

Meanwhile, Christian owns just a few days to find answers.

"We had some plays drawn up, but they didn't go the way we planned," added Dillon. "So we had to improvise – it's a tough loss."

"Our defense was great with lots of intensity and a lot of people going at it, but suddenly we have issues on offense. We just need to get back to basics, especially moving the ball."

Starr issued similar sentiments.

"It was really good defense in the second half – as good as we can be," he added. "We just need to make free throws and get the ball inside – we didn't finish."

Denton paced the Komets with 19 points. Jonier Alaby added 13 points, while Noa added 11.

Christian: Shane Dillon 21 (9 reb, 2 stl, 1 charge), Jason Gaines 16 (6 reb, 4 ast), Jake Larsen 7 (7 reb, 6 ast, 2stl), Phillip George 6 (2 reb, 1 stl), Trenton Sauls 2 (1 reb), Stephen Johnston 2 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Tyler Ballard 1.

MONTE VISTA 66, SANTANA 53 – REUBEN NWANDO punched in 18 points and grabbed 8 rebounds as the Monarchs held off Santana in Friday’s (Feb. 3) Grossmont Valley League victory.

Nwando netted 9 of 12 shots from the field, while collecting 8 rebounds for the Monarchs.
“KYLIE LUSTER played well off the bench and DEVIN RENDO (12 points, 7 rebs) was strong on the boards for us.”

Santana made a game of it by landing 8 three-pointers.

I can’t believe all the three pointers Santana hit against us,” Carroll said.

In contrast was unable to land any shots beyond the arc.

One thing Monte Vista had going is shooting 65 percent (30 of 46) from the field.

Monte Vista: Reuben Nwando 18 (8 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), James Jackson 16 (7 reb, 7 ast, 1 stl), Devin Rendo 12 (7 reb), K.J. Houston 8 (5 reb, 4 ast, 5 stl, 1 blk), D’ondre Coleman 6 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Kylie Luster 4 (3 reb, 1 stl), Xavier Daniels 2 (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Justin Brandy (4 reb, 2 blk), Jahzdion Taylor (3 reb, 1 ast), Hasani Jarvis (2 ast, 1 stl),

Santana: A.J. Bratlien 15 (2 reb, 1 stl), Daniel Levens-Lowery 11 (5 reb, 1 stl), Andy Miller 8 (3 reb, 1 blk), Mike Rosolino 7 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Ryan Bratlien 6 (2 reb, 1 stl), Jordan Vargas 3 (1 stl), David Albright 2 (5 reb, 1 stl), Christian Barry 1 (1 reb, 4 stl, 1 ast), Dustin Murphy (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk).

El Capitan's Nestor Ramirez dribbles through the defense of El Cajon Valley. (Photo by Leslie Autry)

EL CAPITAN 63, EL CAJON VALLEY 55 – Behind the 17 points and 4 rebounds of KAMERON BROWN, the El Capitan Vaqueros defeated El Cajon Valley in a Grossmont Valley League Friday (Feb. 3) in Lakeside.

“The more and more Kameron Brown gets to play the more it opens things for our other guys,” El Capitan coach JASON CAVAZOS said. “This is his second year playing basketball. If there’s a kid I have that could play at the next level it’s Kameron Brown. He has so much room for potential. He gets better and better every game.”

El Capitan (14-8, 2-2 GVL) took a 16-3 first quarter lead and never looked back.

“This was one of those games that are hard to play,” Cavazos said. “We were up by 20 pretty much throughout the game. Everyone got to play.”

Senior TYSON KYGAR pitched in 12 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists for the Vaqueros.

“Tyson Kygar makes everyone around him better. They box-and-1 him and he still is involved. It doesn’t take him out of the game. He has never been about scoring points. He’s about winning. In my opinion he’s the best player in East County because he makes everybody around him better. He’s up there in the stats across the board,” Cavazos said.

For El Cajon Valley, ANDRE NIKITA carried the torch with 29 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists) for the Braves.

El Capitan: Kameron Brown 17 (4 reb, 1 blk), Tyson Kygar 12 (9 reb, 7 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Austin Betts 12 (4 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Nestor Ramirez 11 (7 reb, 1 ast), Ross Scott 4 (5 reb, 3 ast), Scott Root 2 (2 reb, 3 ast), Travis Hulsey 1 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Dillon Rettig 1, Justin Phoenix 1.

El Cajon Valley: Andre Nikita 29 (7 reb, 7 ast, 3 stl), Deon Kelly 7 (8 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Brendan Brocious 5 (1 ast), Alex Jacinto 4, Edon Lushi 3 (4 reb), Laqman Sulyman 3 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Deshe Tibbs 2 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Derrick Moore 2 (3 reb), Jeremiah Patton (4 reb), Ibraham Ali (1 ast, 1 reb).

HELIX 55, STEELE CANYON 29 – Three-year letterman TITUS YOUNG hammered down 9 of 16 shots for 18 points to go along with 5 steals, 4 assists and 2 steals as Helix captured the Grossmont Hills League victory over the Cougars.

“Young is not only a solid shooter but one that creates shots for others,” Steele Canyon coach DEREK STEPHENS said.

Helix coach JOHN SINGER had to miss Thursday’s (Feb. 2) practice for personal reasons, but left the team in the good hands of assistant coach ANDY MERIDETH and JOE HERNANDEZ.

“Those two guys did a great job of preparing the team,” Singer said. “They’ve been with me for a long time and they know what I want. Heck, the kids were probably happy to have a day off from me.”

Longest League Win Streaks From CIFSDS Record Book (Updated thru Feb. 3)

54 – Lincoln, 1985-93 52 – Horizon, 1995-2001 51 – Carlsbad, 1962-66 50 – Sweetwater, 1981-85 48 – Foothills Christian, 2007-present 46 – Lincoln, 1986-92 43 – Ramona, 1970-71 42 – Hilltop, 2005-08 38 – Lincoln, 1976-80 37 – Christian, 1999-2003 36 – Mount Miguel, 1966-69

Helix: Titus Young 18 (7 reb, 5 ast, 4 stl, 2 blk), Brian Valadez 11 (8 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 4 blk), Kaelan Mitchell 11 (8 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Michael Todd 5 (1 reb, 1 stl), Romario Wilson 4 (7 reb, 2 stl, 2 blk), Kene Anigbogu 2 (5 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Derrick Chandler 2 (4 reb, 1 ast), Will Mildenhall (3 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Isaac Randall (2 stl), Christian Bell (1 reb), Ernesto Martinez (1 stl).

Steele Canyon: Cody Wells 9, Justin Norwood 8, Casey Balikian 6, Dylan Kirchhofer 4, P.J. Russell 2.

FOOTHILLS CHRISTIAN 95, LUTHERAN 15 – No further information provided for this Friday (Feb. 3) Sunset League game, which computed to 48 league Foothills Christian conquests in succession (fifth-longest in SDCIF history).

Mount Miguel's Izzy Wagner skies to the basket during Wesnesday's GVL game against Monte Vista. (Frank Price photo, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE PHOTOS HERE

Monarchs seize control of GVL lead Nip rival Mount Miguel on Jackson baskets By Bill Dickens © East County Sports.com SPRING VALLEY (2-2-12) — Both the Monte Vista Monarchs and Mount Miguel Matadors believe they are being ignored in the various San Diego polls. Six-foot-8 JAMES JACKSON was a flash in a can as he produced back-to-back buckets that enabled the Monarchs to register a come-from-behind 48-46 Grossmont Valley League victory on Wednesday (Feb 1). “People keep saying we’re not as good as our record,” said Jackson, who finished with 18 points, 7 rebounds, an assist and 2 steals. “Even though we were behind at halftime, I told my teammates this may be the last time you strap on your shoes so we can’t give up.” The Monarchs’ REUBEN NWANDO rolled a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds, while DEVON RENDO came off the bench for 10 points and 7 rebounds. “Our defense won the game for us,” said Monte Vista coach JAMES CARROLL. “It might have been a lot easier victory for us if we had not missed a ton of layups.” By the same token Carroll heaped praise on Mount Miguel sharp-shooter IZZY WAGNER, who finished with 19 points. “I know people talk about El Capitan’s (TYSON) KYGAR all the time, but in my opinion Wagner is the best guard in East County.” Mount Miguel coach JAY ROWLETT noted that this was the Matadors’ first home loss. “We had control of the game the whole way,” said Rowlett. “But even though my guys played hard they made mistakes in the final seconds, which cost us. Give credit to Monte Vista for making plays when they had to.” Monte Vista: James Jackson 18 (7 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Reuben Nwando 10 (10 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Devon Rendo 10 (7 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), K.J. Houston 8 (7 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Xavier Daniels 2 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Kylie Luster (2 reb), D’ondre Coleman (1 reb). Mount Miguel: Izzy Wagner 19 (7 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Thomas Butler 15 (13 reb, 2 ast), Cory Littleton 7 (12 reb, 2 stl), Marcus Booker 5 (4 reb, 6 ast, 2 stl), Malcolm Jackson (1 reb, 1 stl), Marcellus Jones (1 ast, 1 stl), Tony Wills (1 ast).

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (2-2-12) — West Hills High, a team known for its 3-point shooting accuracy, was 0-for-18 in Wednesday’s (Feb. 1) Grossmont Hills League game against visiting Granite Hills until the final 15 seconds of overtime.

“It was unbelievable,” said West Hills coach JEFF ARMSTRONG. “NICK FINDLEY hit his only 3-pointer to put us up by 3 with 15 seconds left.

“I thought we had everybody covered chest-to-chest after that, but their 6-9 guy (SCOTT ATKINSON) was left wide open in the corner and hit a 3 to tie it.

“We were very lucky to win this game,” Armstrong noted following a 49-46 triumph.

“Obviously it wasn’t our best 3-point shooting night but we made the ones we had to,” Armstrong said. “But my hat’s off to (Granite Hills coach) RANDY ANDERSON, who has suffered so many injuries yet remains competitive. That shows you what a quality coach he is.”

Atkinson finished with 15 points, 7 rebounds and 10 blocks. KOLTIN HIGGINS landed four 3-pointers to contribute 14 points and 7 rebounds for the Eagles.

“We were down 11 points in the third quarter and made a nice comeback to go into overtime,” Anderson said.

“Bottom line,” he added, “I was proud of our kids. Eleven of our 13 losses have been in overtime or at the last minute, and 4 of our 5 league losses have been last possession games.”

West Hills: Jeron Satterfield 13 (3 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Jonny Preston 11 (3 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Kevin Straub 10 (2 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Alex Parsons 8 (5 reb, 7 stl, 5 blk), D.J. Lewis 4 (2 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk), Nick Findley 3 (2 reb, 1 stl), Joey Clark (1 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Will Llamas (1 ast, 1 stl), Ryan Williams (1 reb), Eric Fox (1 stl), Kevin McLaughlin (1 reb).

Granite Hills: Scott Atkinson 15 (7 reb, 1 ast, 10 blk), Koltin Higgins 14 (7 reb), Stephen Keppel 6 (9 reb, 1 blk), D.J. Palomero 6 (3 reb, 5 ast), Kyle Pierson 5 (8 reb, 2 blk), Danny Densel (3 reb), Danny Smith (3 reb), Alonzo Beepath (1 reb, 1 ast), Brayan Turner (1 reb).

HELIX 47, VALHALLA 45 – It was hardly a majestic shot, but Helix junior guard TITUS YOUNG made his non-textbook delivery the game-winner for the Highlanders in a Wednesday’s (Feb. 1) Grossmont Hills League victory over the visiting Norsemen.

“He banked in a long two with three seconds left,” Valhalla coach KEITH JACKSON said. “We had him smothered (with KEVIN MILLS), but he took a step back and nailed the biggest shot of the game.”

Young, who scored a career-high 21 points, lofted a mid-range bank shot with 2 seconds left to post the victory for Helix (13-8, 4-1 GHL).

“Titus isn’t consistent, but is capable of making the key play,” Helix coach JOHN SINGER. “He took over the game in the second half (with 15 points).”

A.J. ALLEN and MATT BUTCHER paced Valhalla (7-15, 2-3 GHL) with 12 points apiece.

“We were a little tentative coming out of the first six minutes.” Jackson said. “Allen probably spent more time on the floor than he has at any point this season. That’s what we need from him.”

Helix: Titus Young 21 (3 reb, 1 ast), Romario Wilson 10 (6 reb, 3 stl, 2 blk), Brian Valadez 9 (7 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl, 4 blk), Kene Anigbogu 6 (6 reb, 1 stl), Will Mildenhall 1 (3 reb), Michael Todd (4 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Derrick Chandler (3 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Isaac Randall (1 stl).

Valhalla: A.J. Allen 12 (1 ast, 9 reb, 1 blk), Matt Butcher 12 (6 reb, 1 ast), Spencer Havird 9 (5 reb, 5 ast, 2 blk, 1 stl), Andrew Lozoya 5 (1 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl),

Kevin Mills 2 (2 ast, 3 reb, 1 stl), Amil Hermiz 2 (2 reb, 5 ast), David Gazelle 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Chris Shields 1, Taylor Hammet (1 reb).

EL CAJON VALLEY 54, SANTANA 53 – The visiting Braves snapped an 11-game losing streak in Wednesday’s ( Feb. 1) Grossmont Valley League victory over host Santana.

The Braves’ (8-11, 1-4) one-point nod came in the final seconds.

With 30 seconds remaining Santana (4-14, 0-4 GVL) attacked the basket and CHRISTIAN BARRY scored and drew an and-1, and made the free throw staking Santana to a 53-52 edge.

With 24 seconds remaining ANDRE NIKITA hit a bucket to win the game for El Cajon Valley. Santana put up a last second layup that rolled off the front of the rim.

“We came out ready. I thought we stayed focused,” said El Cajon Valley coach MARTY ELLIS. “We played as a unit, even though it came down to some last plays. I am hoping we are starting to jell. I think this time two players set the table tonight – JEREMIAH (PATTON) and DESHE (TIBBS) – and for the first time we were finally able to eat and enjoy afterwards.

“This game was very important to me. My hat goes off to this group of kids. They have something to talk about for once.”

The Sultans “aka Johnson & Johnson” proved they could play as the walking wounded.

“We went on an 8-0 run to start the third quarter, which gave us a 2-point lead,” Barry said. “It was back-and-forth until there was one minute left and we were up by 2. Then their No. 20 made a cut to the basket and got an and-1. He made all three free throws to put the Braves up 52-50.”

EDON LUSHI, who has bounced back and forth from the varsity and junior varsity, rang up a team best 14 points for the Braves. Nikita reeled off a triple- double of 13 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists.

Barry welcomed back one of his injured warriors.

“I did not think we were going to have JASON CORBISEZ (recovering from an ankle injury), but he had the trainer tape him up good and he wanted to be out there,” the coach said. “That was a plus for us.”

El Cajon Valley: Edon Lushi 14 (5 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Andre Nikita 13 (12 reb, 10 ast, 1 blk), Laqman Sulyman 12, Derrick Moore 4 (14 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Deon Kelly 5 (6 reb), Deshe Tibbs 2 (2 reb), Jeremiah Patton 1, Ibriham Ali (1 reb).

Santana: Jason Corbisez 13 (2 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), A.J. Bratlien 13 (9 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Daniel Leven-Lowery 9 (7 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Christian Barry 8 (5 reb, 5 ast, 1 blk), Ryan Bratlien 5 (4 reb), Mike Rosolino (2 reb, 1 ast), Andy Miller 2 (1 stl), Jordan Vargas 2, James Doherty 1 (1 reb).

CORONADO 58, CHRISTIAN 56 – Any thought that the Christian High Patriots had smooth skating to the Central League title met with a chip in the ice Wednesday (Feb. 1) at the Ryan Athletic Center.

The beach-laden Islanders of Coronado (13-8, 4-3 CTL) pulled out a victory on a buzzer-beater layup by Henry Relph.

“This is a game we should have won,” Christian coach KELVIN STARR said. “It should never have come down to that anyway.”

The Patriots (12-6, 7-1 CL) were sitting on a 56-54 lead when the Islanders tied it. Christian had a chance to win it, but turned the ball over with six seconds remaining.

That set the stage for Relph’s winning bucket.

This setback puts more pressure on Christian, which faces second place Kearny on the Komets’ court Friday (Feb. 3) at 7 p.m. The Patriots won the first meeting in double-overtime.

Christian: Shane Dillon 21 (9 reb, 3 ast, 2 blk, 1 stl), Jason Gaines 12 (3 reb, 1 blk, 4 stl), Stephen Johnston 10 (1 reb, 1 ast), Jake Larsen 6 (4 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), George 5 (3 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Trenton Sauls 2 (2 reb, 1 ast), Tyler Ballard (3 reb, 1 ast).

GROSSMONT 57, STEELE CANYON 35 – ROBBY NESOVIC knocked down 27 points and procured 13 rebounds as the undefeated Grossmont Hills League-leading Foothillers corralled the Cougars in Wednesday’s (Feb. 1) action.

“The biggest thing is we really played pretty good shutdown defense in the fourth quarter (gaining a 17-4 edge),” said Grossmont coach FRANK FOGGIANO.

That and Nesovic scored Grossmont’s last 11 points in the fourth quarter.

BILAL RAHIM added 13 points and 11 rebounds for Grossmont (11-9, 4-0 GHL) which posted its seventh straight victory.

“Grossmont killed us on the offensive boards, especially No. 40 (Rahim),” noted Steele Canyon coach DEREK STEPHENS. “They physically manhandled us. Right now we’re in a little rut.”

Grossmont: Robby Nesovic 27 (13 reb, 5 ast, 4 stl), Bilal Rahim 13 (11 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Derek Rustich 6 (10 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), J.T. Barnes 5 (5 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Austin Swisher 4 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Christian Meno 2 (1 reb, 1 stl).

Steele Canyon: Cody Wells 9, Casey Balikian 9, Michael Jordan 6, Dylan Kirchhofer 6, Tyler Gulino-Jones 3, Justin Norwood 2.