By Andrew Smith
© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (1-1-12) — In what was the final game of the 2011 calendar year, the crowd on hand to take in the championship game of the Lady Monarch Classic saw anything but another ordinary game when El Camino faced off against the host Monte Vista Monarchs Saturday (Dec 31) afternoon.

There wasn't a timeout called by either team until midway through the third quarter, a technical foul was called on El Camino for the jersey numbers not being accurate at the scorer's table, one shot the entire game was logged from downtown, a Wildcat player mistakenly scored in the wrong hoop and on an in bounds play a light hanging from the rafters 30 feet in the air was hit with a Tom Brady-like heave.

All that being said the Monarchs, fresh off their revenge victory of Eastlake the day before, took care of business and handed El Camino a 64-54 defeat to claim the tournament trophy.

Trailing 7-2 early in the game it looked like the Monarchs might have been suffering from a case of déjà vu, but they quickly put that thought far behind them as they closed the first quarter on a 15-2 run. They would ride that momentum to build a comfortable 20 point cushion at the half.

“After our slow start we made a couple of layups and that really got us going early on and that sparked our defense in the first half,” senior STEFANIE BANKS explained.

This Monarchs squad rolls ten deep and at times coach MICHAEL SKIBBE has the luxury of subbing all 5 players at the same time. That gives everyone not only game-time experience, but they all contribute to the cause, which makes this team so successful.

“We subbed in some of the young kids and got them some good quality minutes today which is always great,” Skibbe said.

Four players scored in double figures and the Monarchs chased the Wildcats out of the gym on the boards, out-rebounding them 56-23.

“We keep getting better game by game and our bench is really progressing as well,” said FELICIA PORTER after registering an all-around great performance. Her final line read 14 points, 13 boards, 4 assists and a pair of pilfers and swats to go along with it.

Porter along with 6-2 center senior SHAMINIQUE BOYD took care of the glass as they both registered 13 rebounds and had double-doubles.

Looking up at a 20 point deficit heading into the final quarter the Wildcats finally start to purr as they applied full-court pressure defense and got back into the game, cutting the lead all the way down to 6 with 3:03 left to play.

“That was a little scary,” JAZMINE BRADLEY admitted. “We just picked it up as a team and just played our game. It actually feels really good to win our own tournament. Last time against Eastlake we didn't come through so this one is extra special.”

Monte Vista: Felicia Porter 14 (13 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk), Jazmine Bradley 11 (6 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk), Dionna Mercer 11 (5 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Shamonique Boyd 10 (13 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk), Abigail Vargas 5 (5 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Monica Williams 4 (5 reb, 1 ast), Stefanie Banks 4 (3 reb, 1 ast), Kayla Harrell 2 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Alexis Wittmann 1, Monique Williams (1 reb).

By Bill Dickens
© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (12-31-11) — Monte Vista will play for the Lady Monarchs Classic championship on Saturday (Dec. 31), meeting the El Camino Wildcats at 1:30 p.m. on their home court.

In Friday’s (Dec. 30) semifinal, the Monarchs knocked off Eastlake, 62-58, to earn a berth in the finals.

“It was good to beat Eastlake, they were undefeated before tonight,” said senior co-captain DIONNA MERCER. “I held the team together, brought them back after ( Eastlake ) went on a 4-point run and we got a little confused on defense. But we figured it out.”

“We had a huddle up and I told the girls we had to communicate – call out the screens and who you have on defense because defense is the key.”

Noting the difference between this game and the Dec. 10th 56-46 loss to Eastlake, ABIGAIL VARGAS, senior co-captain noted, “We had better communication this game. Last time we didn’t really have good communication, didn’t work as a team.”

Commenting on tomorrow’s game when the Monarchs will play El Camino for the tournament championship, Vargas said, “Tomorrow is just another game. Yeah, it’s a championship game but we’ve been playing as a team and I think it’s going to go good.”

FELICIA PORTER led the Monarchs with 14 points and 7 rebounds, while STEFANIE BANKS added 12 point and 5 boards.

Monarchs coach MICHAEL SKIBBE is optimistic.

“The chemistry on the team is good,” he said. “The girls are playing well together. Eastlake kicked our butts the last time we played them but we did better today. Eight of our 11 players scored. It was a real positive thing.”

Monte Vista: Felicia Porter 14 (7 reb, 1 blk, 2 stl, ast 2), Stefanie Banks 12 (5 reb, 3 stl, 3 ast), Shamonique Boyd 9 (7 reb, 2 stl, 1 ast), Abigail Vargas 9 (3 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl, 5 ast), Dionna Mercer 8 (3 reb, 2 stl, 4 ast), Kayla Harrell 6 (1 stl), Jazmine Bradley 2 (6 reb, 1 stl, 2 ast), Alexis Wittmann 2, Monica Williams (1 reb).

VALHALLA 56, Long Beach--CABRILLO 51 – The Valhalla Norsemen celebrated their first victory of the season Friday (Dec. 30) with a win over Cabrillo in the finale of the SoCal Holiday Classic Prep Division.

KANDICE KALASHO scored a career-high 28 points and ALEXIS SILVA swished 7 three-pointers as the Norsemen broke into the win column for the first time.

Norsemen coach AL SILVA paid homage to his usual leaders and also wanted to mention his freshman point guard, SARAH FEDERICO.

“She was relentless, taking away the ball at every turn,” he said.

Valhalla hit 9 three-pointers, with Kalasho adding two treys.

Valhalla: Kandice Kalasho 28 (5 ast, 4 stl, 1 blk), Alexis Silva 21 (4 reb, 1 blk), Sarah Federico 4 (5 reb, 2 stl), Shyla Criger-Philipp 1 (5 reb, 2 stl, 2 blk), Hayley Swanger 1 (1 reb, 2 stl), Melanie Jirjis 1 (1 ast), MacKenzie Castro (2 reb, 3stl).

WEST HILLS 54, RED MOUNTAIN (Mesa, Ariz.) 51 – Slow starts are driving West Hills coach RYAN KINSER nuts.

It happened again in Friday’s (Dec. 30) SoCal Holiday Classic TOC Division finale where Red Mountain took a 28-17 halftime lead, strengthened by the Wolf Pack’s many defensive miscues and 15 turnovers in the first two quarters.

The Pack played solid defense in the third quarter, allowing it to get back in the game and holding the Mountain Lions to 3 points until 30 seconds were left in the quarter.

It was back and forth in the fourth quarter, where – unlike the previous night’s game – the Pack made clutch free throws down the stretch to seal the win.

“KYLE CRISTINI played real well down the stretch and scored a game high 16 points,” Kinser said. She made 4 free throws in the last minute of play.”

“Overall it was a good tournament,” he continued. “We had four very competitive games and we had a chance to win all four. We are very happy with 2-2 in a tough tournament. We walked away with many things to fix but proud of the girls’ effort – came back tonight when nothing was going right in the first half.”

West Hills: Kylie Cristini 16, Jillian Brown 8, Taylor Ingraham 8, Emily Cole 8, Bailey Albers 7, Daniana Ghandour 3, Jessica Scott 2, Taylor Aguirre 2.

CHRISTIAN 56, LUTHERAN 17 – CHAYAN LOWERY scored 16 points and grabbed 13 rebounds as the Patriots improved their record to 3-11 in Friday’s (Dec. 30) final round of the Lady Monarchs Classic.

This was one of the Patriots’ finest offensive outputs as AMELIA JOHNSON pitched in 12 points and ALESIA LOWERY added 11.

Christian: Chayan Lowery 16 (13 reb, 9 blk, 1 ast, 5 stl), Amelia Johnson 12 (4 reb, 4 stl), Alesia Lowery 11 (7 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Hayley Cruz 8 (3 reb, 2 stl), Jillian Sexton 6 (4 reb, 4 stl, 1 blk), Melina Jones 3 (2 reb).

HIGHLAND (Ariz.) 53, GRANITE HILLS 46 – JESSICA HARRIS locked down 22 points – the majority coming on five 3-pointers – in Friday’s (Dec. 30) final day of the Las Vegas Tournament.

SKYLAR WILLIAMS added 12 points – the majority of her markers coming on 8-for-9 free throws – as the Eagles fell to 14-3.

Granite Hills: Jessica Harris 22 (5 reb, 1 ast), Skylar Williams 12 (5 reb, 2 stl), Kayla Kemp 5, Hailey Garner 4 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Anna Viettry 3 (5 ast), Keji Kubari (4 reb, 1 blk).

SCRIPPS RANCH 38, HELIX 20 – First-year Helix girls basketball coach PATRICK TABOR has seen enough. He realizes that his Highlanders need to play year-round if they want to compete.

Proof of Tabor’s evaluation is Helix’s 2-11 record to date.

In the loss to Scripps Ranch in the final round of the Bonita Vista Optimist Tournament, Tabor said, “We were in the game for awhile but we crumbled in the 3rd quarter. We have a lot of girls who haven’t played a lot of basketball. They only play during basketball season – November to March – no summer league. I plan to change that.”

Helix: Faith Leaupepetele 11 (2 ast), Sarah Meredith 6 (5 reb), Hayley Singer 2 (7 reb, 5 blk), Ashley Smith 1, Rubine D’Jemba (3 reb), Lisabella Lemusu (3 reb).

MISSION HILLS 50, GROSSMONT 26 – DANIELLE DAHLE scored 16 points and grabbed 12 rebounds and blocked 3 shots but it was hardly enough as the Foothillers fell to the Grizzlies in the final game of the SoCal Holiday Classic NCAA D2 Division game Friday (Dec. 30).

“After the second quarter defensive meltdown we just did not have any legs left,” said Foothillers coach JEFF BICKFORD. “Our girls looked tired tonight. With league getting ready to start we just needed to rest some players who logged many minutes in this tournament.”

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 16 (12 reb, 3 blk, 1 ast), ), Larissa Foggiano 4 (4 reb), Katarina Schweitzer 2 (2 reb, 2 ast), Carly Lopez 2 (6 reb), Lauryn Weigel 2 (1 reb), Bria Miller (7 reb), Christina Valdez (3 reb, 1 stl), Megan Reddecliff (1 reb, 1 stl), Danielle Davis (2 reb).

OCEANSIDE 46, SANTANA 40 – No further information was reported for this Thursday (Dec. 30) Cali Comfort Prep Classic game at Mount Miguel.

Grossmont's Danielle Dahle (left) soundly rejects an opponents shot attempt. However, Mundelein (Ill.) won in overtime, 59-58. (Photo by Nathan Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (12-30-11) — The host Mount Miguel Matadors used a balanced attack to clobber visiting St. Christopher’s of Toronto, 61-42, in Thursday’s (Dec. 29) Cali Comfort Prep Classic semifinal.

The victory launches the Matadors into the championship game against Riverside-Perris on Friday (Dec. 30) at 5 p.m. at Mount Miguel.

In the semifinals, SHAY YOUNG led the Matadors to a 20-7 first-quarter lead by scoring 8 of her game-high 17 points. The New Mexico State-bound Young proved to be an inspiring leader for the Matadors (11-2), finishing with 16 rebounds.

The key to the victory was Young’s inside presence. The 6-foot senior definitely bothered her opponents by logging 5 steals and blocking 2 shots.

Another surprise element to the Matadors’ victory was the shooting of CHANTEL YELL, who knocked down 5 buckets, including two 3s for 12 points.

Freshman ZARIA BRANCH added 10 points.

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 17 (16 reb, 2 ast, 2 blk, 5 stl), Chantel Yell 12 (4 reb, 2 ast), Zaria Branch 10 (7 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Kamree Harrison 8 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Brooklyn Miller 4 (4 reb, 1 stl), Dejanay Pope 2 (4 reb, 1 stl).

GRANITE HILLS 50, JURUPA VALLEY (Nev.) 35; RENO (Nev.) 54, GRANITE HILLS 47 – The Granite Hills Eagles split a double-header Thursday (Dec. 29) in the middle two rounds of the Las Vegas Tournament.

In game one, SKYLAR WILLIAMS led the way with 24 points and JESSICA HARRIS contributed 14 markers.

“I thought the girls played their best game of the year against Jurupa Valley,” said Granite Hills coach JERRY PARKER. “We won the game on the half court. Most of the games we play are uptempo, this was much slower. We proved we could win a game at a slower pace.”

Once again SKYLAR WILLIAMS and JESSICA HARRIS teamed up to lead the Eagles with 18 and 11 points respectively, but it wasn’t enough as Granite Hills lost their second game of the day to the Reno Huskies.

ANNA VIETTRY chipped in with 9 points and 10 assists in the losing effort.

An unusual situation on the court had coach JERRY PARKER puzzled and not a little dismayed.

“The officials called a technical on Reno and told KAYLA KEMP to go to the free throw line,” Parker said. “She was 0-for-2 on that. The officials never told me who the technical was on so I assumed they had called a personal foul. Kayla told me the official pointed her to the free throw line and Jessica confirmed it.”

“We didn’t shoot well at the free throw line – the free throw line hurt us,” he added. “We shot terrible on free throws against both San Diego and Reno. It killed us both times.”

Vs. Juruapa Valley - Granite Hills: Skylar Williams 24 (7 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Jessica Harris 14 (7 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Hailey Garner 6 (4 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Keji Kubari 6 (1 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk), Anna Viettry (2 reb, 6 ast, 2 stl), Nae Harvey (2 reb, 2 stl), Madison Lumb (1 reb).

Vs, Reno – Granite Hills: Skylar Williams 18 (3 reb, 2 stl), Jessica Harris 11 (4 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Anna Viettry 9 (4 reb, 10 ast, 2 stl), Keji Kubari 5 (7 reb, 2 stl), Hailey Garner 4 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Kayla Kemp (1 reb, 1 stl).

MONTGOMERY 39, STEELE CANYON 34 – After taking an 18-15 halftime lead in Thursday’s (Dec. 29) Montgomery Holiday Classic championship game the Cougars’ offense went soft.

Steele Canyon (6-4), which saw a four-game winning streak end when the Aztecs gained a 35-24 edge over the final three quarters.

MONIQUE VAN shared high-point honors at 10 points with ALI MERLINO and MALICIA JORDAN.

Steele Canyon: Monique Van 10 (6 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Ali Merlino 10 (7 reb), Malicia Jordan 10 (3 reb), Rachel Beasley 2 (2 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), Jessica Thompson 2 (3 reb), Alexis Ramos (4 reb).

MUNDELEIN (Ill.) 59, GROSSMONT 58 (OT) – DANIELLE DAHLE scored 21 points and grabbed 18 rebounds while DANIELLE DAVIS punched in 16 points and corralled 14 rebounds as the Foothillers suffered a heartbreaking loss in Thursday’s (Dec. 29) SoCal Holiday Classic NCAA D2 Division action.

“This was definitely the most exciting game of the day at Grossmont High School,” said Foothillers coach JEFF BICKFORD. “We had a great crowd out there cheering for our girls. We had a lot of contribution on the scoring end tonight. We need this type of balance every game moving forward.”

“Our two Danielle(s) – Davis and Dahle – had very good games tonight,” he added. “Sophomore BRIA MILLER chipped in 10 points and hit a couple key baskets down the stretch. We struggled at the line when it counted, shooting 3-13 at the free throw line in the 4th quarter and OT.”

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 21 (18 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl, 5 blk), Danielle Davis 16 (14 reb), Bria Miller 10 (8 reb), Carly Lopez 8 (7 reb, 2 ast), Christina Valdez 3 (4 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Katarina Schweitzer (2 reb, 1 ast).

Irvine-WOODBRIDGE 56, WEST HILLS 48 – Junior EMILY COLE was on the shooting mark but she couldn’t save the Wolf Pack in Thursday’s (Dec. 29) SoCal Holiday Classic TOC Division loss to Irvine Woodbridge.

“We started off real slow offensively, picked it up in the second quarter,” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “Emily Cole had 11 of her 23 points in the second quarter. We played good defense in the second, gained a 2-point lead with a minute left but had two breakdowns and gave up back-to-back 3’s.”

The second half went back and forth with neither team leading by more than 4 points.

“We went up one on a TAYLOR AGUIRRE 3 with 3 minutes left but lost the lead in the last minute on crucial mistakes,” Kinser said. “ We had to foul at the end, which made it an 8 point game.

“We played with a lot of energy and effort tonight, which has been the main problem for us. Cole came up huge, making 6 of 10 threes but the difference came down to free throw shooting. We were 9-18 and Woodbridge was 14-19.”

West Hills: Emily Cole 23, Taylor Ingraham 6, Bailey Albers 3, Taylor Aguirre 3, Kylie Cristini 2, Jillian Brown 2, Daniana Ghandour 2.

LAWNDALE 45, VALHALLA 31 – The Norsemen failed to get out of the gate quickly, allowing the visiting Cardinals to burst to a 13-0 start. But Valhalla launched a late, fourth-quarter bid, moving to within six points with 3:09 remaining before falling in Thursday's (Dec. 29) SoCal Holiday Classic Prep Division contest.

"It was a strong effort to keep our heads in the game and rally back," said coach AL SILVA, who saw his troops outscore the Cardinals (8-4) in both the second and fourth quarters. "The effort continues to improve."

Down 35-17 through three periods, the Norsemen (0-12) surged back with a 14-2 scoring run to start the final period thanks to guard KANDICE KALASHO. The junior tallied 11 of her 17 points in the final period, including a pair of 3-balls to move the hosts to within 37-31, forcing Lawndale to utilize its final pair of timeouts.

However, the Cards came back to double-team Kalasho, while the Norsemen saw a pair of shots by others bounce in-and-out to thwart the rally.

On the defensive end, SHYLA CRIGER-PHILIPP was powerful in the paint, grabbing 19 rebounds and rejecting four shots, including three blocks down the stretch to fuel the comeback.

ALEXIS SILVA marked her return to the lineup with a pair of treys among her 6 points.

Valhalla: Kandice Kalasko 17 (5 stl, 2 ast, 2 reb), Alexis Silva 6 (3 reb, 2 ast), Shyla Criger-Philipp 4 (19 reb, 4 blk, 4 stl), Hayley Swanger 3 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Sarah Federico 1 (5 reb, 2 stl), Melanie Jirjis 0 (1 reb), Jessica May (1 reb), MacKenzie Castro 0.

UNIVERSITY CITY 37, HELIX 27 – The struggling Highlanders got off to a slow start, eventually falling in Thursday's (Dec. 29) Bonita Vista Optimist Tournament contest.

The Centurions jumped to a 13-2 lead through the first quarter. Although the Scotties (2-10) got their game into gear and played even over the final three quarters, they could not make a dent in the deficit.

"We lost but we played really good. We are very encouraged," noted Helix coach PATRICK TABOR:

While the offense continues to develop, the front line of the Highlanders kept the team close throughout.

Junior forward SARAH MEREDITH led the Highlanders with 9 points and 7 rebounds.

Meanwhile, center HAYLEY SINGER limited the Cents with 7 boards and blocked 5 shots, while sophomore RUBINE D'JEMBA led the ballclub with 8 rebounds.

Helix: Sarah Meredith 9 (7 reb), Faith Leaupepetele 7 (3 reb), Hayley Singer 5 (7 reb, 5 blk), Debbi Cardenas 3, Ashley Smith 2, Brittany Jones 1, Rubine D'Jemba (8 reb), Lisabella Lemusu (5 ast), Sabrina Reid (3 reb).

CHRISTIAN 48, CRAWFORD 28 – CHAYAN LOWERY scored 30 points to lead the Patriots to victory over the Lady Colts in Thursday’s (Dec. 29) Lady Monarchs Classic. No further information provided.

EC-SOUTHWEST 43, EL CAPITAN 23 – BEKAH LEONARD scored 10 points and grabbed 7 rebounds for El Capitan as the Vaqueros fell to 1-11 in Thursday’s (Dec. 29) SoCal Holiday Classic Prep Division contest.

El Capitan: Bekah Leonard 10 (7 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), DeAnna Reed 4 (5 reb, 2 ast), Vanessa Sierra 3 (5 reb, 1 stl), Cierra Cutler 3 (5 reb, 1 stl), Kira Lopez 2 (12 reb), Katie Davidson 1 (6 reb, 1 blk), Kim Galvan (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

SANTANA df. MORINVILLE (Alberta, CAN) – No information was reported on this Thursday (Dec. 29) Cali Comfort Prep Classic game.

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (12-29-11) — Missing a key scoring threat inside, Monte Vista High junior FELICIA PORTER took charge.

Moving to the low block for a pair of contests Wednesday (Dec. 28), Porter posted efforts of 17 and 11 points to give the Monarchs victories over Imperial, 60-26, then Morse, 74-49.

"It was important for us to jump to early leads," said Porter. "That gave us a chance to get younger players in and develop our depth – something we're noted for."

Porter didn't wait long, scoring 13 of the Monarchs' 15 points in the first quarter against Imperial, bursting to a quick 39-15 halftime lead.

"I knew I had to step up since SHAMONIQUE (BOYD) was out of town," Porter added. "I'm used to playing both the post and power forward, so I did a bit of both with some power moves inside."

Porter again reached double figures against Morse in a battle against Tigers center Angelina Wilson, a 6-foot-1 junior who led the visitors with 13 points.

However, Monte Vista's deeper lineup proved too much, as ABIGAIL VARGAS led the way with 17 points and five rebounds.

The Monarchs out-scored Morse by double-figures over each of the first three quarters to mount a 60-26 advantage entering the final period.

Vs. Imperial - Monte Vista: Felicia Porter 19 (7 reb, 2 blk, 1 ast), Jazmine Bradley 8 (4 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Stefanie Banks 6 (2 stl, 1reb), Kayla Harrell 6 (5 reb, 2 stl), Heather Bell 6 (2 reb, 1 stl), Abigail Vargas 4 (6 ast, 5 stl, 1 reb), Dionna Mercer 4 (3 ast, 3 stl, 1 reb), Monica Williams 4 (7 reb, 1 stl), Alexis Wittman 1 (6 reb, 1 blk).

Vs. Morse – Monte Vista: Abigail Vargas 17 (5 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Jazmine Bradley 11 (2 reb, 6 ast, 3 stl), Stefanie Banks 9 (3 stl), Dionna Mercer 9 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Heather Bell 8 (3 reb, 2 stl), Alexis Wittman 4 (2 reb, 1 stl), Monica Williams 2 (3 reb), Monqiue Williams 2 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Kayla Harrell 1 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl).

STEELE CANYON 61, BRAWLEY 55 – The final 3 minutes of Wednesday’s (Dec. 28) Montgomery Holiday Classic game got very interesting, as three Cougars fouled out of the game, leaving the already shorthanded Cougars with just 4 players on the floor, to Brawleys 5.

However, the Cougars were able to withstand Brawley's scoring barrage to pull out a 6 point victory in spite of several challenges.

“I wasn’t able to be at the game,” said Cougars head coach DALE PARKER. “My assistant coaches, BRIGAYLE IGLEHART and RODNEY VAN ran the game. We had to play the last 3 minutes with only 4 on the floor because three of our players – point guard MONIQUE VAN, RACHEL BEASLEY and ALEXIS RAMOS – all fouled out.”

With two of their regulars out of town, the Cougars had just seven players suited up for the game. During the waning minutes, playing short-handed, freshman KIM COOK was pressed into play and Brawley immediately fouled her. It backfired however, as she made 1 of 2 free throws.

“We were up by 14 points,” recalled coach Van, “but once our girls fouled out Brawley started raining 3 after 3 – they must have made four 3s on us. They drew within three points before we took away the 3 and stopped them with a 4-man zone.”

Steele Canyon would endure yet another obstacle when JESSICA THOMPSON and MALICIA JORDAN collided, sending Thompson to the floor hard.

“She was hurting, but she got up and shook it off and stayed in the game,” Van said. “It was a scary moment.”

“We were in survival mode,” he could laugh now, with the game behind them. “It was good to be able to pull that off, given the adversity we faced.”

Brawley was undefeated in this tournament, and the victory over the Wildcats placed Steele Canyon in the championship game on Thursday (Dec. 29) at Montgomery.

“We’re getting to the point of just playing basketball and not over-thinking the game,” said Parker. “I think that was our problem in the beginning. People are getting more confident, we are relying on each other.”

“ALI MERLINO has been solid,” Parker noted. “She’s the glue that holds this team together. When all else fails we can always depend on Ali.”

Merlino led all scorers with 28 points and also chipped in with 14 rebounds.

Monique Van had a double-double for the Cougars with 14 points and 12 rebounds.

Steele Canyon: Ali Merlino 28 (14 reb, 3 stl, 3 blk), Monique Van 14 (12 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Jessica Thompson 9 (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Alexis Ramos 4 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Rachel Beasley 3 (1 reb, 4 ast), Malicia Jordan 2 (1 reb), Kim Cook 1 (1 reb, 1 ast).

POWAY 46, WEST HILLS 35 – In a battle of Top 10 teams, the Wolf Pack committed 27 turnovers and shot only 35 percent from the field as it lost to visiting Poway (10-1) in Wednesday’s (Dec. 28) SoCal Holiday Classic TOC Division contest.

“This certainly was not our best effort,” West Hills coach RYAN KINSER said. “We made bad passes all over the court and allowed Poway to get every loose ball. Obviously you can’t do that against a quality team.

“They took away the post from us and we could not adapt.”

West Hills: Kylie Cristini 10 (4 ast), Bailey Albers 6 (1 reb, 1 ast), Emily Cole 6 (4 reb, 2 ast), Jillian Brown 5 (11 reb, 1 blk), Taylor Ingraham 4 (3 reb, 1 ast), Arielle Bowers 2 (3 reb, 1 stl), Jessica Scott 2 (2 reb), Taylor Aguirre (2 reb), Daniana Ghandour (1 reb).

GRANITE HILLS 82, Las Vegas-SHADOW RIDGE 35; GRANITE HILLS 51, Las Vegas-VALLEY 33 – Granite Hills improved its record to a San Diego CIF best 13-1 with a first round two-game sweep of the Las Vegas Tournament on Wednesday (Dec. 28)

Against Shadow Ridge JESSICA HARRIS led the Eagles with a career-high 24 points, including 5 treys as Granite Hills scored a season-high 82 points. Not to be overlooked were her 8 steals.

SKYLAR WILLIAMS added 18 points and 6 steals, while ANNA VIETTY had 7 assists and 7 steals to go along with her 11 points.

“In the first half of the first game I didn’t think we played well but in the second half the girls got after it defensively and did a better job,” Eagles coach JERRY PARKER. “We ended up pulling away in the second half.”

In the nightcap JESSICA HARRIS once again led a balanced Granite Hills attack with 17 points and SKYLAR WILLIAMS pitched in with 11.

“KAYLA KEMP and ANNA VIETTRY did a really good job defensively, especially on their No. 25 (Gabrielle Cabanero, Valley’s best player),” said coach JERRY PARKER.

Vs. Shadow Ridge – Granite Hills: Jessica Harris 24 (4 reb, 1 ast, 8 stl, 2 blk), Skylar Williams 18 (4 reb, 1 ast, 6 stl), Anna Viettry 11 (1 reb, 7 ast, 7 stl), Kayla Kemp 9 (2 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Keji Kubari 9 (1 stl, 1 blk), Hailey Garner 6 (5 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Nae Harvey 3, Madison Lumb 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Kaylla Hawkins (1 reb, 1 stl), Erica Phillips (1 reb).

Vs. Valley – Granite Hills: Jessica Harris 17 (6 reb, 4 ast, 7 stl), Skylar Williams 11 (6 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Anna Viettry 7 (3 reb, 5 ast, 3 stl), Hailey Garner 5 (3 reb, 2 ast), Keji Kubari 4 (4 reb, 2 stl), Kayla Kemp 3 (2 reb, 1 stl), Nae Harvey 2 (5 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Kaylla Hawkins 2 (3 reb), Madison Lumb (1 reb, 1 stl), Erica Phillips (1 stl), Leena Alyashaa (1 stl).

MOUNT MIGUEL 74, EDWIN PARR (Athabasca, Alberta) 28 – Edwin Parr Composite School captured its own holiday tournament two weeks ago, jumping to a fast 6-2 start on the season.

However, the school's trip to San Diego has proved enlightening after getting whipped by the host Matadors in Wednesday's (Dec. 28) Cali Comfort Prep Classic contest.

Mount Miguel senior SHAY YOUNG surpassed the 30-point plateau for the fourth time this season (and 3rd time in four ballgames), collecting 33 points and 10 rebounds to post a double-double. Young also added eight steals in just missing a triple-double.

For the season, Young has produced 275 points in 11 outings, leading all East County scorers with a 25.0 scoring average.

KAMREE HARRISON added 12 points for the Matadors (10-2), while adding five steals.

CHANTEL YELL operated the offense with six early assists, helping Mount Miguel to quarter leads of 22-6, 38-13 and 62-23, before the Matadors cleared the bench. DEJANAY POPE added 10 rebounds to fuel the defense.

Edwin Parr, located two hours due north from Edmonton, had separate nicknames for its girls (Angels) and boys (Pacers) athletic programs until recently. The new mascot all for sports is now the Predators.

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 33 (10 reb, 1 ast, 8 stl), Kamree Harrison 12 (3 ast, 5 stl), Brooklyn Miller 8 (6 reb, 3 stl, 1 blk), Deijah Blanks 7 (5 reb, 3 stl), Zaria Branch 6 (1 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Chantel Yell 5 (3 reb, 6 ast, 6 stl), Dejanay Pope 3 (10 reb, 3 stl, 2 blk).

San Luis Obispo-MISSION PREP 57, GROSSMONT 36 – Facing off against one of the top teams in the state the Foothillers proved to be no match for Mission Prep (10-1) in Wednesday’s (Dec. 28) SoCal Holiday Classic NCAA D2 Division contest.

Grossmont was outscored by the Royals in all four quarters.

“This was a very tough team ranked 906th in Country and 108th in the State of California,” noted Grossmont coach JEFF BICKFORD. “We were right there with them in the first half, but just did not have enough scoring other then DANIELLE DAHLE’s 22 points.

“Our post players really struggled tonight and they beat us up in there a bit,” he continued. “We have had a very tough nonleague schedule with the teams we have played. Although our record is not where we would like it to be, the teams we played composite record is 66 wins and 30 losses. We will be well prepared for our league schedule.”

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 22, Carly Lopez 3, Christina Valdez 2, Megan Reddecliff 2, Bria Miller 2, Danielle Davis 2, Lauryn Weigel 2, Larissa Foggiano 1.

El Centro-SOUTHWEST 58, VALHALLA 26 – The short-handed Norsemen, down to six players after ALEXIS SILVA was lost indefinitely due to a concussion, did not field enough guns in falling to the visiting Eagles in Wednesday's (Dec. 28) SoCal Holiday Classic Prep Division play.

KANDICE KALASHO paced Valhalla (0-11) with 13 points and a pair of assists, collecting half of her team's scoring.

"At least Alexis will eventually be fine after her CAT scan came back negative," said AL SILVA, the head coach and father to the senior forward.

Leading the Norsemen defense was SHYLA CRIGER-PHILIPP with seven rebounds and a pair of blocked shots.

Valhalla: Kandice Kalasho 13 (2 reb, 3 stl, 2 ast), Shyla Criger-Philipp 6 (7 reb, 2 blk, 1 stl), Jessica May 5 (3 reb), Sarah Federico 1 (5 reb, 3 stl), Melanie Jirjis 1, MacKenzie Castro (2 stl).

HELIX 51, SD-SOUTHWEST 32 – A series of mishaps with the scorebook led to frustration for Highlanders coach PATRICK TABOR, even though he was pleased with his team’s victory in the Bonita Vista Optimist Tournament.

Due to the mix-up at the scoring table, scoring and stats were not available at this time.

PERRIS 86, SANTANA 36 – No further information was reported for this Wednesday (Dec. 28) Cali Comfort Prep Classic at Mount Miguel High.

MIRA MESA 41, EL CAPITAN 14 – No further information was reported for this Wednesday (Dec. 28) SoCal Holiday Classic Prep Division game.

West Hills High head coach Ryan Kinser with a celebratory cake marking Tuesday's 100th career triumph with the Wolf Pack. (Photo by assistant coach John Russo)

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (12-28-11) — West Hills High head coach RYAN KINSER is not one to brag about his personal achievements. But after the Wolf Pack clipped Carlsbad 60-45 in Tuesday’s (Dec. 27) SoCal Holiday Classic TOC Division, Kinser was heaped with accolades.

“I had no idea what my record was,” Kinser said. “I don’t keep track of stuff like that. I wasn’t expecting all the hoopla.”

West Hills assistant coach JOHN RUSSO organized a post-game ceremony, awarding Kinser with a trophy of sorts.

“It was a box that flips open with a golden whistle. It’s an engraved plaque that reads ‘100 Wins – 4 League Championships – 2 CIF Championships.’

“It was a very nice gesture by Coach Russo.”

While pleased with the award Kinser was keen about the victory over Carlsbad mostly because it set up Wednesday’s (Dec. 28) showdown with Poway in a battle of Top 10 teams at 3:30 at West Hills.

“Emily shot the ball well, tough to get her looks because they face guarded her the whole night, hung in there and made some big shots in the second half,” Kinser said.

Talking about today’s game, Kinser said, “We started off real slow offensively, but played good early defense. We played a very poor second quarter, let them right back in the game.”

“We came out and played real well in the 3rd quarter and put the game away (with a 25-9 spread),” Kinser added. “We finished poorly however, turned the ball over and didn’t make any shots. We need to play much better if we want to beat Poway.”

JILLAN BROWN was in foul trouble and didn’t play much, according to the coach.

“We need her to stay on the floor tomorrow,” Kinser commented.

West Hills: Emily Cole 15, Taylor Ingraham 10, Kylie Cristini 10, Bailey Albers 9, Jessica Scott 6, Jillian Brown 4, Daniana Ghandour 2, Taylor Aguirre 2, Jenesis Hayes 2.

GROSSMONT 50, RANCHO BERNARDO 27 – Senior DANIELLE DAHLE turned in a powerful double-double of 29 points to go along with 13 rebounds, 5 steals and 4 blocks as the Foothillers riddled Rancho Bernardo in Tuesday’s (Dec. 27) SoCal Holiday Classic NCAA D2 Division contest.

“Dahle played spectacular on both ends of the floor,” said Grossmont coach JEFF BICKFORD.

“It was definitely good to get back on the court,” added Bickford after the Foothillers posted their 2nd win in 10 starts. “We worked so hard on conditioning and strength training all of last week in practice. It was nice to finally come out and play with high intensity right from the start.”

The excitement carried beyond Dahle.

“JULIA NARANJO definitely got her team pumped up diving for loose balls,” the coach praised.

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 29 (13 reb, 5 stls, 4 blk), Megan Reddecliff 6 (1 reb, 1 stl), Danielle Davis 4 (6 reb, 1 stl), Bria Miller 4 (1 reb), Carly Lopez 3 (1 reb, 2 stl), Lauren Weigel 2 (2 reb), Julia Naranjo 2 (1 reb), Katarina Schweitzer (1 reb, 2 stl).

STEELE CANYON 53, MADISON 11 – ALI MERLINO was dominant inside, as she scored 8 of the Cougars’ 12 first quarter points in Tuesday’s (Dec. 27)

Montgomery Holiday Classic at Mount Miguel, and went on to finish with 27 points.

In the second quarter MONIQUE VAN hit a three and dished out 3 of her game high 6 assists. Merlino continued her aggressive play under the basket, pulling down 6 of her game-high 12 rebounds in this quarter.

In the third quarter, JESSICA THOMPSON chipped in 4 points and two steals along with RACHEL BEASLEY's 4 points and 3 assists as the Cougars blanked the Warhawks 20-0 in that stanza.

MALICIA JORDON contributed 2 critical rebounds and a steal in the third quarter as well. The Cougars did not allow Madison to score in this quarter.

In the fourth quarter, it was more of the same, with Van stealing the ball from Madison at will and Merlino making pretty much every shot she put up. ALEXIS RAMOS had 3 pass deflections, 2 assists and 1 steal. Freshman

KIM COOKE got an opportunity to play and contributed with one assist.

Steele Canyon: Ali Merlino 27 (12 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl 2 blk), Monique Van 9 (6 reb, 5 ast, 6 stl), Jessica Thompson 9 (2 reb, 3 stl, 2 ast), Rachel Beasley 8 (2 reb, 1 ast), Alexis Ramos (6 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Malicia Jordan (2 reb, 1 stl), Kim Cook (1 ast).

MOUNT MIGUEL 72, OCEANSIDE 26 – Although this should be considered a rebuilding year for perennial power Mount Miguel, it’s hard to argue with the Matadors 9-2 start.

“We just try to get better every day,” smiled Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL.

Of course when you have a senior like SHAY YOUNG, who scored 33 points and grabbed 9 rebounds it’s not hard to enjoy the present. It was the 4th time Young has scored 30 or more points this season.

The Matadors mugged Oceanside, taking a 28-8 first quarter lead and never looked back in Tuesday’s (Dec. 27) Cali Comfort Prep Classic at Mount Miguel.

DEIJAH BLANKS added 11 points and DEJANAY POPE plucked 10 rebounds for the Matadors. CHANTEL YELL contributed 9 steals.

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 33 (9 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Deijah Blanks 11 (4 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Brooklyn Miller 8 (4 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk), Kamree Harrison 8 (6 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Zaria Branch 5 (1 reb, 3 ast, 5 stl, 1 blk), Dejanay Pope 3 (10 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Chantel Yell 3 (3 reb, 5 ast, 9 stl, 2 blk), Cierra Conwright 1.

BONITA VISTA 46, HELIX 24 – If the Highlanders entertained any thought of coming from behind during Tuesday’s (Dec. 27) Bonita Vista Optimist Holiday Tournament opener, the challenge never got off the floor as Helix (1-9) was outscored 13-2 over the final eight minutes.

SARAH MEREDITH led the Highlanders with 9 points and 7 rebounds, and HAYLEY SINGER snared 7 boards and 8 blocks.

“We just have to keep fighting,” said Helix coach PATRICK TABOR.

Helix: Sarah Meredith 9 (7 reb), Faith Leaupepetele 4 (3 reb, 2 ast), Tenae Johnson 4, Rubine D’Jemba 2 (2 reb), Fuafiva Pulu 2, Brittany Jones 2, Hayley Singer 1 (7 reb, 8 blk).

SERRA 67, SANTANA 24 – The Sultans’ offense never got off the floor against No. 6 ranked Serra Conquistadors in Tuesday’s (Dec. 27) opening round of the Cali Comfort Prep Classic at Mount Miguel High.

HAYLEY BURTON led Santana’s anemic attack with 9 points and 7 rebounds.

Santana: Haley Burton 9 (7 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl), Kayty Grable 6 (3 reb, 1 stl), Emily Kloss 4 (5 reb, 2 stl), Veronica Lopez 4 (2 ast, 2 stl), Sydney Blackburn (2 reb), Becca Ramirez (2 reb).

MIRA MESA 49, VALHALLA 32 – Valhalla’s ALEXIS SILVA was injured during Tuesday’s (Dec. 27) SoCal Holiday Classic Prep Division contest and could have suffered a possible concussion.

Norsemen coach AL SILVA spent a good part of the night with his daughter at a local hospital.

KEARNY 69, CHRISTIAN 31 – No further information was reported for this Tuesday (Dec. 27) Lady Monarchs Classic contest.

LAWNDALE 47, EL CAPITAN 16 – No further information was reported for this Tuesday (Dec. 27) SoCal Holiday Classic Prep Division game.

© East County Sports.com
OTAY MESA (12-27-11) — ALI MERLINO and MONIQUE VAN helped Steele Canyon gang up on Castle Park for a 50-28 victory in Monday’s (Dec. 26) opening round of the Montgomery Holiday Classic at Montgomery.

Merlino, a senior who connected in 11 of 15 shots from the floor, led the Cougars (4-3) with 22 points.

Van, a junior, added 20 points, nailing 7 of 14 shots from the field and 6 of 9 free throws.

Steele Canyon built a 28-8 advantage and never looked back.

Steele Canyon: Ali Merlino 22 (4 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 4 blk), Monique Van 20 (8 reb, 6 ast, 7 stl), Malicia Jordan 3 (1 reb, 1 ast), Jessica Thompson 2 (1 reb, 5 stls, 3 ast), Alexis Ramos 1 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Rachel Beasley (4 reb, 4 stl, 3 ast).

MONTE VISTA 65, ESCONDIDO 57; MONTE VISTA 67, MAR VISTA 26 – Host Monte Vista (8-5) executed a double-header sweep in Monday’s (Dec. 26) opening day of the Lady Monarchs Classic.

Vs. Escondido – Monte Vista: Felicia Porter 18 (9 reb, 2 stl), Abigail Vargas 16 (7 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Jazmine Bradley 10 (5 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Dionna Mercer 9 (3 reb, 7 ast, 1 stl), Stefanie Banks 4 (5 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Kayla Harrell 4 (2 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl), Heather Bell 2 (4 reb, 1 blk), Monique Williams (1 ast), Monica Williams (3 reb).

Vs. Mar Vista – Monte Vista: Dionna Mercer 11 (5 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Felicia Porter 10 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Kayla Harrell 10 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Abigail Vargas 8 (5 reb, 3 ast, 5 stl), Monica Williams 7 (14 reb), Stefanie Banks 7 (4 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk), Jazmine Bradley 5 (2 reb, 5 ast, 1 stl), Alexis Whitmann 4 (4 reb, 1 stl), Monique Williams 3 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Heather Bell 2 (7 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk).

EL CENTRO-CENTRAL 54, CHRISTIAN 41 – Monday’s (Dec. 26) opening round of the Lady Monarchs Classic. MORE

Christian: Chayan Lowery 21 (16 reb, 11 blk, 3 stl), Amelia Johnson 9 (1 reb, 3 stl), Alesia Lowery 4 (4 reb, 3 blk, 4 ast, 3 stl), Jillian Sexton 4 (6 reb, 1 stl), Audrey Taylor 2 (5 reb), Hayley Cruz 1 (1 reb, 4 blk, 1 stl), Anaya Tobiason (1 reb).

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (12-24-11) — ORMANI NORRIS-GREEN scored only 2 points in Friday’s (Dec. 23) nonleague game against visiting Otay Ranch.

But her bucket in the final 2 seconds gave the Braves a 56-54 victory over the Mustangs.

“With 17 seconds left we turned the ball over twice,” said El Cajon Valley coach MARC BOYKINS. “Then with 7 seconds left Ormani stole the ball and dribbled ¾ the length of the court for the game-winning layin.

“We used a certain defense we call “23-Pop,” Boykins said. “It puts a lot of pressure on the ball handler.”

CHELSEA BALL paced the Braves (6-5) with 21 points and 16 rebounds.

MICIA LOPEZ added 13 points and 11 boards while recording 3 steals.

NATASHA FERNANDEZ buried a trio of triples on her way to an 11 point finish.

“Everybody contributed tonight – everybody scored,” Boykins said. “It was a great game – we had a real good crowd and they were all yelling and stomping the bleachers. It was real exciting to see the kids come out and watch us play.

The victory equaled what it took El Cajon Valley 26 games to win last year. So things are obviously looking up for the Braves.

El Cajon Valley : Chelsea Ball 21 (16 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 2 blk), Micia Lopez 13 (11 reb, 3 stl), Natasha Fernandez 11 (3 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Miranda Mullens 7 (4 reb), Ormani Norris-Green 2 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Joanna Dela Cruz 2 (2 reb).

© East County Sports.com
PHOENIX (12-23-11) — The Monte Vista Monarchs pulled out a victory in the final day of the rugged Nike Tournament of Champions on Thursday (Dec. 22) when they defeated Flagstaff (Ariz.), 54-44.

“We played better defensively and made some baskets, made a boatload of assists (16 on 23 buckets),” MICHAEL SKIBBE said. “We did some good things today.”

FELICA PORTER powered in 17 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to guide the Monarchs (6-5), who snapped a five-game losing streak. DIONNA MERCER added 14 points and ABIGAIL VARGAS contributed six assists.

“We progressed at this tournament and we’re going to get better,” Skibbe said. “It wasn’t easy but it was self-inflicted. You can’t fix a problem unless you own it.”

Monte Vista : Felicia Porter 17 (13 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Dionna Mercer 14 (4 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Abigail Vargas 8 (7 reb, 6 ast, 6 stl), Jazmine Bradley 8 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Kayla Harrell 4 (2 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Stefanie Banks 4 (4 reb, 3 ast), Monica Williams (3 reb).

© East County Sports.com
PHOENIX (12-22-11) — It’s been a rough road trip for the Monte Vista Monarchs who dropped their third straight start in the rugged Nike Tournament of Champions Wednesday (Dec. 21) in Arizona.

In their latest casualty, the Monarchs (5-5) succumbed to Seton Catholic (Chandler, Ariz.) 52-39.

“If you want to beat us, just foul us,” Monte Vista coach MICHAEL SKIBBE said. “We just can’t make free throws.”

Monte Vista was 5-for-20 from the foul line against Seton Catholic.

The Monarchs’ shooting was off the mark as they netted just 17 of 65 chances (26 percent) from the floor, including 0-for-10 from three-point distance.

Senior SHAMONIQUE BOYD did not shoot particularly well, but finished with a double-double of 13 points and 12 rebounds to pace the Monarchs.

“We are better than we’ve shown in this tournament,” Skibbe said. “But you aren’t going to win games unless you can make free throws.”

Monte Vista : Shamonique Boyd 13 (12 reb, 1 ast), Dionna Mercer 9 (2 reb, 4 stl), Jazmine Bradley 6 (6 reb, 3 ast, 5 stl), Stefanie Banks 4 (2 reb, 2 stl, 1 ast), Abigail Vargas 3 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Monica Williams 2 (4 reb), Felicia Porter 2 (3 reb), Kayla Harrell (2 reb).

OCEANSIDE 51, EL CAPITAN 39 – No report from this Wolverine Invitaitonal contest at Foster Gym.

By Andrew Smith
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (12-21-11) — Two of the top girls basketball teams faced off in Tuesday’s (Dec. 20) championship game of the Granite Hills Holiday Invitational.

The undefeated Eagles rode an 11-game winning streak into a showdown against the heralded San Diego Cavers (10-1), ranked 13th in the state and No. 2 in the San Diego CIF by both major media polls.

The smaller Eagles held their own yet eventually came up short, 73-59.

Granite Hills senior Jessica Harris. (Photo by Nathan Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

Playing without star guard Tia Dixon – out of town due to a family emergency – her teammates set the tone early as they jumped out to a 19-9 lead at the end of one quarter.

Granite Hills senior guard JESSICA HARRIS, who scored 33 points in each of her previous two games, was held in check because Cavers coach Lonnie Jones and his staff had obviously done their homework. They face-guarded Harris to keep the rock out of her hands in the first half.

Harris finished with 11 points and was named to the all-tournament team.

Junior guard ANNA VIETTRY of Granite Hills had ulterior motives to distribute the ball to the open shooter, finding HAILEY GARNER on two straight possessions that resulted in a pair of triples, cutting the Cavers lead to 22-19. That was as close as Granite Hills would get.

Garner finished as the top scorer for Granite Hills with 19 points and added 5 rebounds.

“In the long run I actually believe this will help us out,” Garner stated. “We’re looking at it in a good way and we’re gonna take everything positive we can find from it and learn from our mistakes.”

“I was extremely happy with the girls’ effort, but we just never seemed to get it within 10,” said head coach JERRY PARKER.

When the Eagles look back on this game they will stare straight at the fact that the loss was by 14, but will be mad-dogging themselves for leaving 17 points on the charity stripe as they went 19-for-36 for the game

“We definitely need to work on free throws and rebounding,” said junior SKYLAR WILLIAMS after the Eagles allowed a plethora of Cavers offensive rebounds.

Williams racked up 15 points and dozen rebounds for Granite Hills.

San Diego’s 6-foot-1 Aimee Callaway, 6-foot Jasmine Poumele and 5-10 Madison Douglass dominated the game inside the paint.

“We knew coming into the game that they had those athletic bigs inside,” Parker said. “I can’t wait to look at the stats and see how many offensive boards we gave up. I think this loss in the long run will help us out because it humbled us a little bit. But my girls are hungry competitors and they’re not gonna back down.”

Callaway was selected the tournament’s MVP and teammate Alexis Harris also received all-tourney recognition as did Mount Miguel’s SHAY YOUNG and Coronado’s Peri Curtis.

Granite Hills: Hailey Garner 19 (5 reb), Skylar Williams 15 (12 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Jessica Harris 11 (3 reb, 2 ast), Anna Viettry 8 (3 reb, 5 ast, 1 stl), Keji Kubari 2 (3 reb, 2 ast), Kayla Kemp 2 (2 reb), Nae Harvey 2 (1 reb).

WESTVIEW (Avondale, Ariz.) 56, MONTE VISTA 19 – The Monarchs (5-4) dropped their second game in as many starts in Tuesday’s (Dec. 20) Nike Tournament of Champions in Phoenix. No details were reported.

ORANGE GLEN 69, EL CAPITAN 19 – No report on Tuesday's (Dec. 20) Westview Wolverine Invitational contest at Fister Gym in Lakeside.

Santana's Savannah Fenn (left) places ball pressure on Fuafiva Pulu of Helix. (Nathan Price photo, youatplay.com) ADDITIONAL GAME PHOTOS

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS OF TEAMS

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (12-20-11) — When the various polls are conducted the Granite Hills Eagles should not be overlooked.

An 11-0 start and a berth in Tuesday’s (Dec. 20) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational championship game warrant attention for coach JERRY PARKER’s squad.

JESSICA HARRIS rattled in 33 points for the second game in a row as the Eagles knocked off visiting Escondido 64-15 in Monday’s (Dec. 19) semifinal tournament action.

SKYLAR WILLIAMS added 13 points and 5 steals for the Eagles, while ANNA VIETTRY pitched in with 8 points, 10 rebounds and 9 assists.

Granite Hills: Jessica Harris 33 (9 reb, 2 stl), Skylar Williams 13 (5 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl, 1 blk), Anna Viettry 8 (10 reb, 9 ast, 3 stl), Keji Kubari 3 (6 reb, 5 stl, 2 blk), Nae Harvey 2 (5 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Mariah Vanlandingham 2 (3 reb), Hailey Garner 1 (2 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl), Kayla Kemp 1 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Leena Alyashaa (1 reb, 2 stl), Erica Phillips 1 (2 reb), Madison Lumb (1 reb).

EL CAJON VALLEY 50, MONTGOMERY 41 – If you want to scuttle the El Cajon Valley Braves you have to find a way to short circuit CHELSEA BALL.

Ball, a 5-foot-9 senior, recorded her usual double-double of 23 points and 12 rebounds as the Braves balanced their record at 5-5 by knocking off Montgomery in Monday’s (Dec. 19) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational contest.

“Every team we play tries to double-team or triple-team Chelsea,” said Braves coach MARC BOYKINS. “So we spread the floor and make the extra pass.”

NATASHA FERNANDEZ continues to be El Cajon Valley ’s long-range scoring threat as she nailed a trio of 3-pointers on her way to a 13-point finish.

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 23 (12 reb), Natasha Fernandez 13 (3 reb, 3 ast), Micia Lopez 8 (1 reb), Miranda Mullens 4 (3 reb), Ormani Norris-Green 2 (1 reb, 2 ast), Toni England (3 reb, 1 stl), Joanna Dela Cruz (1 reb).

SANTANA 50, HELIX 27 PHOTOS – In a battle of Grossmont Conference teams, the Santana Sultans rode the strength of HALEY BURTON’s 21 points and 8 steals along with a double-double by SYDNEY BLACKBURN of 16 points and 10 rebounds to hammer the Highlanders in Monday’s (Dec. 19) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational.

Santana streaked to a 17-5 first-quarter lead and extended that advantage to 32-15 by intermission.

Santana: Haley Burton 21 (5 reb, 8 stl, 3 blk), Sydney Blackburn 16 (10 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), Veronica Lopez 6 (3 reb, 2 ast, 6 stl), Emily Kloss 5 (4 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Savanah Fenn 2 (6 stl), Kayty Grable (8 reb, 1 ast, 6 stl).

Helix: No report.

THUNDERIDGE (Colo.) 56, MONTE VISTA 32 – Even though the Monarchs fell behind 17-0 in Monday’s (Dec. 19) first round of the prestigious Nike Tournament of Champions in Phoenix, Ariz., Monte Vista coach MICHAEL SKIBBE did not lose his composure nor did his team.

“We left the floor a better team than we walked on it,” Skibbe said. “There were a lot of positives.”

Sophomore KAYLA HARRELL pitched in 8 points, 2 steals and 3 rebounds for the Monarchs.

SHAMONIQUE BOYD also tossed in 8 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and 5 steals.

Not to be forgotten was ABIGAIL VARGAS, who tallied 8 markers against the Grizzlies from Highland, Colo.

Monte Vista: Shamonique Boyd 8 (9 reb, 5 stl), Abigail Vargas 8 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Kayla Harrell 8 (3 reb, 2 stl), Felicia Porter 2 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Dionna Mercer 2 (2 reb, 2 stl), Jazmine Bradley 2 (1 ast), Heather Bell 2, Monica Williams (2 reb), Monique Williams (1 reb), Alexis Wittmann (1 reb, 1 stl), Stafanie Banks (1 stl).

SAN MARCOS 63, EL CAPITAN 22 – No further information was reported for this Wolverine Invitational game aon Monday (Dec. 19).

MISSION VISTA 41, EL CAPITAN 25 – No report was received for this Wolverine Invitational contest on Monday (Dec. 19) between the Vaqueros and the newest public high school in San Diego County.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (12-18-11) — Nobody in the San Diego CIF has more basketball wins than the Granite Hills Eagles, who are a perfect 10-0.

The Eagles sprinted to a 23-2 first quarter lead and never looked back on Saturday (Dec. 17) as they rolled over El Centro Central 71-20 in the Granite Hills Holiday Invitational.

“We pulled away from them and then were able to give our bench a lot of time,” said Granite Hills coach JERRY PARKER.

Senior guard JESSICA HARRIS hammered down a career-high 33 points – including a trio of treys – while snaring 12 rebounds and making 4 steals.

“Jessica played great,” Parker said. “She has really matured over the time she has been with us. She showed great leadership out on the floor.”

Granite Hills: Jessica Harris 33 (12 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Anna Viettry 9 (1 reb, 8 ast, 4 stl), Skylar Williams 8 (7 reb, 2 ast, 8 stl), Hailey Garner 4 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Keji Kubari 4 (5 reb), Madison Lumb 4 (2 reb), Nae Harvey 4 (2 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Kaylla Hawkins 3 (2 reb), Kayla Kemp 2 (2 reb), Erica Phillips (3 reb), Mariah Vanlandingham (2 reb), Leena Alyashaa (1 stl).

MOUNT MIGUEL 85, Oxnard-HUENEME 34 – Obviously feeling her oats, SHAY YOUNG turned in another scoring spree of 32 points, leading the Matadors past Hueneme in Saturday’s (Dec. 17) Granite Hills Invitational contest.

Young knocked down 13 field goals, giving her 27 buckets for the day. She was 8 for 9 from the free throw line over the two games and out-hustled Hueneme for 10 rebounds, 6 assists and 7 steals.

ZARIA BRANCH added 18 points – the majority coming on four 3-pointers – to go along with 7 rebounds, 8 steals, 5 assists and a block.

“The first quarter was the best quarter we’ve played this year from the intensity the kids played with,” said coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. “I’m proud of them.”

Mount Miguel (8-1) led 31-3 after the first quarter.

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 32 (10 reb, 6 ast, 7 stl, 1 blk), Zaria Branch 18 (7 reb, 5 ast, 8 stl, 1 blk), Dejiah Blanks 9 (5 reb, 3 ast, 5 stl, 2 blk), Chantel Yell 9 (6 reb, 6 ast, 8 stl), Kamree Harrison 7 (2 reb, 5 ast, 6 stl), Brooklyn Miller 6 (4 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Dejanay Pope 3 (4 reb, 2 ast, 5 astl, 1 blk), Cierra Conwright 1.

MOUNT MIGUEL 63, VALHALLA 23 – SHAY YOUNG scored a career-high 33 points, bagged 11 rebounds and made 5 steals as the Matadors vanquished Valhalla in Saturday’s (Dec. 17) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational.

ZARIA BRANCH chipped in with 12 points, 7 rebounds and 7 steals for Mount Miguel.

Shay had 13 points in the 2nd quarter to extend Mount Miguel ’s lead to 40-13 by halftime.

“We have a new group of kids,” said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. “They’re trying to learn to play with each other.”

“Mount Miguel was up pretty big at the half but we played pretty decent defense in the 2nd half,” said Valhalla coach AL SILVA. “I wasn’t unhappy with this game. Most of our girls are not at the skill level as Mount Miguel. Sometimes we just go through the motions. This is what a good team does. Mount Miguel plays man-to-man defense and our girls just aren’t used to this.”

ALEXIS SILVA led the Norsemen with 13 points and 5 rebounds.

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 33 (11 reb, 4 ast, 5 stl, 2 blk), Zaria Branch 12 (7 reb, 3 ast, 7 stl, 1 blk), Kamree Harrison 10 (3 reb, 4 ast, 6 stl), Deijah Blanks 4 (7 reb, 4 stl, 2 blk), Brooklyn Miller 2 (4 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Chantel Yell 2 (4 reb, 3 ast, 6 stl), Dejanay Pope (6 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk).

Valhalla: Alexis Silva 13 (5 reb, 2 stl), Kandice Kalasho 8 (1 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Hayley Swanger 1 (3 reb, 2 stl), MacKenzie Castro 1 (2 reb, 1 stl), Jessica May (2 reb, 1 stl, 2 blk), Sarah Federico (4 reb), Shyla Criger-Philipp (3 reb), Melanie Jirjis (2 reb).

BONITA VISTA 64, VALHALLA 18 – Even as the Norsemen struggled to score points they were blown out by Bonita Vista when the Barons outscored Valhalla 17-0 in the 3rd quarter of Saturday’s (Dec. 17) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational double-header.

“We were gassed after the Mount Miguel game (played earlier in the day),” said Valhalla coach AL SILVA. “When you make 30 turnovers... I’ve had two goose egg quarters this year.”

“It was a long day for the Norsemen,” he added. “We played better against Mount Miguel than we did against Bonita Vista.”

Valhalla: Alexis Silva 9 (7 reb, 2 blk), Shyla Criger-Philipp 4 (8 reb, 1 stl), Kandice Kalasho 4 (1 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk), Hayley Swanger 1 (4 reb, 1 ast), Jessica May (3 reb), MacKenzie Castro (2 reb), Sarah Federico (1).

SANTANA 45, CASTLE PARK 28; OTAY RANCH 61, SANTANA 36 – The Sultans split a Granite Hills Holiday Invitational double-header on Saturday (Dec. 17).

In game one HALEY BURTON rolled a double-double of 19 points and 14 rebounds while recording 7 steals for the Sultans in the victory over Castle Park.

SYDNEY BLACKBURN added 14 points and 7 steals, while KAYTY GRABLE gathered 10 rebounds.

The Sultans came up short against Otay Ranch after falling behind 18-5 in the 1st quarter.

Once again Burton paced the Sultans with 15 points, while Grable grabbed 11 rebounds.

Santana vs. Castle Park: Haley Burton 19 (14 reb, 3 ast, 7 stl, 4 blk), Sydney Blackburn 14 (5 reb, 2 ast, 7 stl, 1 blk), Kayty Grable 4 (10 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Emily Kloss 4 (1 reb, 2 stl), Savanah Fenn 2 (6 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Becca Ramirez 2 (4 reb), Veronica Lopez (5 reb), Kylie Brees (1 reb).

Santana vs. Otay Ranch: Haley Burton 15 (8 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Kayty Grable 6 (11 reb, 1 stl), Sydney Blackburn 4 (2 reb, 4 ast, 6 ast, 1 blk), Emily Kloss 4 (3 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Becca Ramirez 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Kylie Brees 2 (1 reb, 1 ast), Taylor Estes 2 (1 reb, 1 ast), Savanah Fenn 1 (8 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Veronica Lopez (5 reb).

EL CAJON VALLEY 58, CHRISTIAN 17 ­– Lack of offensive power punch continues to cost Christian as the Patriots (1-8) dropped both ends of a double-header in Saturday’s (Dec. 17) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational.

CHELSEA BALL gave a powerful performance with 31 points and 22 rebounds as the Braves improved to 4-5. Ball, a 5-foot-9 senior, nailed 12 of 21 shots from the field and 7 of 9 free throws. She also blocked 3 shots.

The Braves outscored the Patriots across the board, turning the game into a blowout with a 28-5 spread in the 4th quarter.

Although on Christian scored more than four points, CHAYAN LOWERY grabbed 14 rebounds and blocked 7 shots.

Christian: Chayan Lowery 4 (14 reb, 7 blk, 3 stl), Amelia Johnson 4 (1 reb, 2 stl), Lily Rodriguez 3, Alesia Lowery 2 (4 reb, 4 stl, 1 blk),

Audrey Taylor 1, Jaqueline Jennings 1, Hayley Cruz (1 blk), Anaya Tobiason (1 reb).

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 31 (22 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 3 blk), Natasha Fernandez 11 (3 reb, 2 ast, 6 stl, 1 blk), Joanna Dela Cruz 5 (1 reb, 2 stl), Ormani Norris-Green 4 (4 reb, 3 ast, 5 stl, 1 blk), Miranda Mullens 5 (3 reb), Toni England 2 (7 reb, 3 stl), Allescia Dean (2 reb).

ESCONDIDO 60, CHRISTIAN 23 – CHAYAN LOWERY registered a triple-double of 18 points, 15 rebounds and 12 blocks in the Patriots’ loss to Escondido in Saturday’s (Dec. 17) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational.

Christian: Chayan Lowery 15 (18 reb, 12 blk, 3 stl), Alesia Lowery 4 (4 reb, 4 ast, 4 stl, 1 blk), Jillian Sexton 2 (10 reb), Anaya Tobiason 2 (1 reb), Jaqueline Jennings 1, Hayley Cruz (1 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk), Amelia Johnson (1 reb, 2 stl).

CASTLE PARK at HELIX – No report was received for this Granite Hills Invitational contest on Saturday (Dec. 17).

GROSSMONT vs. TORREY PINES – No report was received for this Kiwanis Tournament game on Saturday (Dec. 17).

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (12-17-11) — There may be a new sheriff in town. The Granite Hills Eagles have posted nine straight wins in as many starts, including a 53-40 victory over Kearny and a 66-40 victory over San Marcos in Friday’s (Dec. 16) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational.

HAILEY GARNER scored a career-high 25 points in the Eagles’ victory over Kearny. Included in her totals were 3 treys, 5 rebounds and 3 steals.

ANNA VIETTRY grabbed 10 rebounds to go with her 10 assists against Kearny and popped in 20 points for the two game conquest.

SKYLAR WILLIAMS was a force in the sweep, totaling 30 points, 21 rebounds and 2 steals for the Eagles who are pushing for Top 10 recognition.

Steady JESSICA HARRIS added 10 points and 9 rebounds in the victory over San Marcos.

Granite Hills vs. Kearny: Hailey Garner 25 (5 reb, 3 stl), Anna Viettry 9 (10 reb, 10 ast, 2 stl), Skylar Williams 7 (10 reb, 1 stl), Jessica Harris 7 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Keji Kubari 3 (6 reb, 2 stl), Kayla Kemp 2 (8 reb), Nae Harvey (1 reb, 1 stl), Erica Phillips (1 blk), Kaylla Hawkins (1 reb), Leena Alyashaa (1 reb), Madison Lumb (1 reb),

Granite Hills vs. San Marcos: Skylar Williams 23 (11 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Anna Viettry 11 (4 reb, 6 ast, 2 stl), Jessica Harris 10 (9 reb, 4 reb, 4 ast), Keji Kubari 10 (7 reb, 1 blk), Hailey Garner 6 (8 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Nae Harvey 4 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Kayla Kemp 2 (2 reb, 3 stl), Mariah Vanlandingham (1 reb), Leena Alyashaa (1 stl).

HILLTOP 35, GROSSMONT 34 – Playing without team captain and scoring leader DANIELLE DAHLE was probably the difference in Friday’s (Dec. 16) Kiwanis Tournament loss to Hilltop.

Dahle, who is the most experienced player, was involved in another school function.

Make no mistake about it her loss was notable, but the Foothillers refused to fold as post player BRIA MILLER landed 17 points and collected 13 rebounds.

“Our birthday girl, sophomore post Bria Miller was outstanding tonight,” said Foothillers coach JEFF BICKFORD. “She is starting to be a presence in the post.”

“Playing without our Captain and scoring leader Danielle Dahle hurt us a bit,” Bickford added. “However, our post game of Bria and DANIELLE DAVIS (10 pts and 10 rebounds) controlled the key.”

Grossmont: Bria Miller 17 (13 reb), Danielle Davis 10 (10 reb), Katarina Schweitzer 3, Carly Lopez 2, Larissa Foggiano 2.

Oxnard-HUENEME 52, VALHALLA 42 – The Norsemen received 22 points from KANDICE KALASHO and 15 from ALEXIS SILVA but could not generate any other support as Valhalla succumbed to the Vikings in Friday’s (Dec. 16) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational.

“Basically we can’t rely on just two girls to score,” said Valhalla coach AL SILVA. “We need somebody else to chip in. We’re playing fairly good defense. It’s extremely frustrating.”

SHYLA CRIGER-PHILIPP could not help the scoring effort but she did collect 19 rebounds.

Valhalla: Kandice Kalasho 22 (3 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Alexis Silva 15 (6 reb, 1 ast), Hayley Swanger 3 (1 ast), Shyla Criger-Philipp 2 (19 reb, 3 blk, 3 stl), MacKenzie Castro (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Sarah Federico (3 reb, 1 stl).

ESCONDIDO 74, EL CAJON VALLEY 57 – The Braves fell behind 63-40 after three periods and could not recover in Friday’s (Dec. 16) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational contest.

“ Escondido is a very fast team, they put a lot of pressure on us,” said El Cajon Valley coach MARC BOYKINS. “They hit 15 threes tonight – they were on fire. Even with girls in their face they were nothing but net. They just outshot us.”

The always reliable CHELSEA BALL poured in 32 points and grabbed 24 rebounds for the Braves (3-5). Ball was 15 of 20 from the floor.

NATASHA FERNANDEZ added 11 points for the Braves.

“MICIA LOPEZ usually averages 10 to12 points a game, and we missed that,” said Boykins. “She just had an off night.”

Lopez did contribute on the boards however, grabbing 13 rebounds to go with an assist and a block.

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 32 (24 reb, 2 at, 2 stl, 1 blk), Natasha Fernandez 11 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Micia Lopez 8 (13 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Ormani Norris-Green 6 (1 reb, 2 ast).

SAN DIEGO 94, HELIX 18 – After falling behind 33-2 in the 1st quarter of Friday’s (Dec. 16) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational, Helix coach PATRICK TABOR began planning for the Highlanders’ next game.

Of course a team like San Diego wants to bury a reputable foe like Helix every chance it gets. The Cavers led 57-8 at halftime and 86-16 after three periods.

None of the Highlanders reached double scoring digits although SARAH MEREDITH popped in 9 points and grabbed 7 rebounds.

SHATIANA DANIELS also crashed the boards for 10 rebounds for Helix.

“We’ll be all right,” said Tabor. “We’re going to be fine. I’ve played and coach basketball a long time and I tell the girls to keep playing and keep fighting.”

Helix: Sarah Meredith 9 (7 reb), Shatiana Daniels 4 (10 reb, 1 stl), Fuafiva Pulu 3 (1 reb), Hayley Singer 2 (5 reb), Ashley Smith (1 reb), Lisabella Lemusu (1 reb), Tenae Johnson (1 reb), Debbi Cardenas (1 reb).

CHRISTIAN vs. BRAWLEY – No report was received for this Granite Hills Holiday Invitational game on Thursday (Dec. 16).

El Cajon Valley's Ormani Norris-Green (left) and Chelsea Ball trap Brawley off-guard Michelle Kastner, but the Wildcats won, 55-44. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (12-16-11) — So just how good is this Granite Hills team? For fun, here’s a checklist:

Chemistry… check.

Defensive awareness… check.

Ball distribution, pressure defense, outside shooting and quick hands.

Check, check, check and check.

Things in fact are going so good with their 7-0 start on the season that even if they flipped a two-headed coin it would still come up tails for this squad of high-soaring Eagles.

It took them only 8 minutes of play to send a message that they are ready to make some noise this season before they cruised to the easy 77-23 victory over Morse Thursday (Dec. 16) night.

“The girls really recommitted themselves this off-season and now it’s definitely showing,” head coach JERRY PARKER said after seeing his Eagles soar to a 36-2 score after one quarter. “They’ve been playing together for years now and it’s finally starting to show.”

“I think we’re going to be pretty good this season,” junior SKYLAR WILLIAMS said after dismantling the Tigers. Williams lead the Eagles with 24 points on 11-of-16 shooting including 2-of-3 for 3 points and adding 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals. “I think it’s great we’ve had the chance to play our bench a lot because down the road everyone will need to contribute at some point for us to be the best we can be.”

The Eagles as a team shot 60 percent from the field and connected on 9-of-16 from behind the arc as they found themselves with a 56-10 lead at the halftime horn.

“We’ve just grown together as a team in the short time we’ve been practicing,” senior JESSICA HARRIS said. “I think we’re really on our way to reach our goal of winning CIF and that’s what we’re aiming for. Our school hasn’t won one since 1991 and that was before I was born so it’s a huge deal around here. It would mean the world to me, that would be really, really special.”

Everything the Eagles shoot echoes throughout the gym with a swishing sound or comes up in one of two ways…seven or yo-eleven.

In fact these Eagles play so hard there was even a running clock in the 4th quarter when the game was out of line.

Harris ended the night 8-of-12, including 4-5 from deep and ANNA VIETTRY had 15 points to go along with 8 assists.

“KEJI (KUBARI) got a lot better over the offseason,” Williams boasted. “Anna has become a true point guard and HAILEY (GARNER) just knows everything.”

Granite Hills: Skylar Williams 24 (5 reb, 4 ast, 5 stl), Jessica Harris 20 (2 reb, 4 ast, 5 stl), Anna Viettry 15 (1 reb, 8 ast, 1 stl,), Kayla Kemp 8 (2 reb, 2 stl), Keji Kubari 4 (3 reb, 2stl, 2 ast,1 blk), Mariah Vanlandingham 2 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Hailey Garner 2 (2 reb, 1 ast, 3 reb), Leena Alyashaa 2 (1 reb), Nae Harvey (3 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl).

— Andrew Smith

GROSSMONT 40, SCRIPPS RANCH 35 – The Foothillers awarded first-year head coach JEFF BICKFORD his first victory at the Grossmont helm in Thursday’s (Dec. 15) Kiwanis Tournament contest.

“It was nice to get that first W this season,” said a relieved Bickford. “We came out ready to play. We were up 12-3 in the first quarter after struggling all season in the opening quarter. Our pressure defense rattled them a bit.

“Watching (Scripps Ranch) play last night versus Canyon Crest and only losing by 10, I knew we would be in for a good fight. Canyon Crest blew us out a few games ago (62-36 on Dec. 8).

It was a bit uneasy for the Foothillers with DANIELLE DAHLE picking up her 4th foul and losing guard RAE'CHELLE RANSAW to an ankle injury in the 3rd quarter.

None the less Dahle led the Hillers with 18 points.

“We kept our composure and our subs stepped up big time,” Bickford said.

“CARLY LOPEZ was the X Factor, scoring all of her 7 points in the 2nd half tonight.”

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 18, Christina Valdez 2, Carly Lopez 7, Bria Miller 6, Katarina Schweitzer 3, Megan Reddecliff 2, Danielle Davis 2.

MOUNT MIGUEL 60, BONITA VISTA 59 – Coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL’s teams are not used to having games decided at the wire. That was the case in Thursday’s (Dec. 15) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational however.

Freshman ZARIA BRANCH hit a 17-foot shot at the buzzer to deny Bonita Vista an upset.

Sandoval had to dig deep into his playbook to draw out the winning formula.

“We called the play the “bal-po,” he said. “Our inbound pass went to SHAY YOUNG at halfcourt and she fired a pass to Branch who was wide open (for the game-winning shot.”

Earlier in the stretch run Young made 2 free throws with 11 seconds remaining to give the Matadors a 58-57 lead.

Bonita Vista countered with 2 free throws with 5 seconds left to retain a 1-point edge.

“We were fortunate to get away with a win here,” Sandoval said. “The problem we’re having right now is a lack of leadership.”

Mount Miguel: Zaria Branch 18 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk), Shay Young 12 (4 reb, 5 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk), Deijah Blanks 10 (5 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl, 2 blk), Kamree Harrison 9 (4 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Chantel Yell 6 (3 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Dejanay Pope 3 (8 reb, 1 st, 1 blk), Brooklyn Miller 2.

BRAWLEY 55, EL CAJON VALLEY 44 – One thing is for certain when it comes to the El Cajon Valley Braves… CHELSEA BALL, NATASHA FERNANDEZ and MICIA LOPEZ will usually make major contributions.

Once again the trio came through in Thursday’s (Dec. 15) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational contest against Brawley.

Ball scored 21 points and collected 14 rebounds, while Lopez tallied 14 points and bagged 10 rebounds.

Fernandez has seen better scoring days but she did corral 11 rebounds.

Ball and Lopez were collectively 15 for 19 from the field.

The Braves got in foul trouble in the 2nd quarter. Ball had three fouls in the 1st half and Fernandez got her 4th foul in the 3rd quarter.

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 21 (14 reb, 2 stl), Micia Lopez 14 (10 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Ormani Norris-Green 5 (5 reb, 2 stl), Natasha Fernandez 4 (11 reb, 2 stl), Joanna de la Cruz (1 stl).

CORONADO 59, VALHALLA 49 – ALEXIS SILVA knocked down 18 points and KANDICE KALASHO added 16 markers but it wasn’t enough as the Norsemen continued to try to find more offensive firepower in Thursday’s (Dec. 15) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational at Valhalla.

The bulk of Silva’s scoring came from long distance as she nailed 5 treys, while Kalasho nailed 11 of 17 free throws.

After that nobody else scored more than 6 points although SHYLA CRIGER-PHILIPP led the Norsemen with 9 rebounds.

“Even though it was a loss, Coronado has been playing pretty tough,” Valhalla coach AL SILVA acknowledged. “But we let their No. 24 (Peri Curtis) get off 30 points. If we had kept her a little better in check it would have been different.

“We’re having a rough start but it was probably the best defense we’ve played all year. Our 4th quarters have been horrible. Against Calexico we scored 2 points in the 4th quarter, against Imperial 4 in the 4th and against Coachella Valley 0 in the 4th. In those games I had girls missing from the squad for one reason or another. Tonight we had everybody here.”

Valhalla: Kandice Kalasho 16 (3 ast, 3 stl), Alexis Silva 18 (7 reb, 1 stl), Shyla Criger-Philipp 6 (9 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Hayley Swanger 6 (1 reb, 1 ast), Melanie Jirjis 2, MacKenzie Castro (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Jessica May (2 reb).

OTAY RANCH 71, HELIX 57 – SHATIANA DANIELS turned in a brilliant performance, canning 10 of 14 shots from the field and 3 of 4 free throws for a game-high 23 points to go along with 14 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to help the Highlanders hold off Otay Ranch in Thursday’s (Dec. 15) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational at Valhalla.

Junior SARAH MEREDITH also was a force for the Highlanders with a double-double of 22 points and 11 rebounds. Meredith had a positive shooting touch as she dropped in 7 of 14 from the field and 8 of 13 from the free throw line.

“We just have to play tougher – play more aggressive,” said Helix coach PATRICK TABOR. “I’ve got to do a better job coaching and they’ve got to do a better job playing.”

Helix: Shatiana Daniels 23 (14 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Sarah Meredith 22 (11 reb, 3 stl), Tenae Johnson 9 (2 reb), Hayley Singer 3 (6 reb, 4 ast, 3 blk), Lisabella Lemusu (4 reb), Ashley Smith (2 reb), Fuafiva Pulu (1 reb), Brittany Jones (1 stl).

SAN DIEGO 68, SANTANA 21 – No report received for this Wednesday (Dec. 15) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational game.

Mount Miguel forward Brooklyn Miller (right) steals the ball from Coronado's Amarilli Varesio. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (12-15-11) — It’s been a long time since the girls basketball team at Mount Miguel High has been faced with a real challenge.

After breezing through the Grossmont Valley League while going undefeated and winning the 2010-11 CIF Division III championship, there is a different kind of feeling this season.

Sure, they’ve started out 4-2 this season, but change is evident.

You could tell the Matadors expect a lot more out of themselves just by their tone after the game against Coronado Wednesday (Dec 14) night which resulted in an eventual easy 53-36 victory.

“It’s definitely a work in progress with this group,” head coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL stated. “Last year we were loaded with a bunch of senior leadership and we lost that, so each game we’re just trying to get it into our heads that we need to put together a full 32 minutes.”

One thing that doesn’t need much work though is their stingy defense. After 7 minutes had elapsed off the game clock they had only allowed one single point and held an early 9-1 advantage before going into the half with 22-17 lead.

“We were kinda sloppy in the first half,” ZARIA BRANCH said after leading Mount Miguel with 15 points on 7-of-11 shooting. She also recorded her first double-double of the year adding 10 rebounds to go along with 2 assists and 3 steals. “We picked it up throughout the game and getting back into the win column should be a definite confidence builder for our team.”

Also leading the way was senior SHAY YOUNG, who in her entire time as a Matador has never lost 3 straight, “I think we could’ve played a lot better as a team,” she admitted.

The senior captain poured in 14 points while adding 7 rebounds and 6 assists. “We had a lot of turnovers (23) and we can only learn from our mistakes. As one cohesive group we will for sure only get better game by game.”

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 14 (7 reb, 6 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Zaria Branch 15 (10 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Chantel Yell 14 (1 reb, 3 ast, 1 blk), Brooklyn Miller 6 (1 reb), Deijah Blanks 4 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Dejanay Pope (6 reb, 3 stl), Kamree Harrison (2 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl).

— Andrew Smith

CHRISTIAN 34, MONTGOMERY 26 – CHAYAN LOWERY rolled a double-double of 14 points and 10 rebounds and blocked 7 shots in Wednesday’s (Dec. 14) Granite Hills Holiday Invitational opener as the Patriots snapped a five-game season opening losing streak.

“Montgomery is a real scrappy team,” said Christian coach THOMAS LOWERY.

“This was a low-scoring game, which is good for me – I wanted to keep the score as low as possible.

“Right now I’m trying to slow the game down because I have a lot of new players and I want to be able to teach them the game.”

Christian put the game away by outscoring the Aztecs 22-12 in the 2nd half.

Christian: Chayan Lowery 14 (10 reb, 7 blk), Alesia Lowery 7 (3 reb, 4 ast), Mia Johnson 5, Jillian Sexton 4, Hailey Cruz 2, Anaya Tobiason 2.

POWAY 46, GROSSMONT 30 – A quick glance at the records would indicate that Wednesday’s (Dec. 14) Kiwanis Tournament opener involving the Grossmont Foothillers would be a blowout. And not in a good way.

No. 7 ranked Poway controlled the game from the outset while recording its 6th straight win and dealing the Foothillers their 6th straight loss.

“We knew this was going to be a tough matchup going against Poway,” said Foothillers coach JEFF BICKFORD. “They are well coached by Jay Trousdale with over 600 career wins. He runs a great program over there.

“At the half we were down 25-15, and I was very pleased with our efforts to keep it that close.”

DANIELLE DAHLE held her own against the talented Titans with a game-high 16 points to pace the Foothillers.

“I told our girls in practice to be ready for a physical game and we worked really hard on defense at practice the last two days,” Bickford said.

This was the second-lowest scoring mark by Poway all year (the Titans beat Del Norte 43-28 in their season-opener).

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 16, Katarina Schweitzer 5, Rae’Chelle Ransaw 5, Bria Miller 2, Danielle Davis 2.

© East County Sports.com
CARLSBAD (12-13-11) — In a battle of Top 10 teams, the visiting West Hills Wolf Pack proved it was worthy of the early season recognition by conducting a miraculous comeback 61-58 victory over host La Costa Canyon in Monday’s (Dec. 12) final round of the North County Classic.

Six-foot-1 senior post JILLIAN BROWN (20 points) and sharp-shooting junior guard EMILY COLE (16) helped the No. 10-ranked Wolf Pack (7-2) erase a 17-point first half deficit and deal the No. 9 Mavericks (5-1) the stunning defeat.

“Overall this has to be one of the top wins I’ve had since I’ve been at West Hills,” said the Wolf Pack’s fifth-year head coach RYAN KINSER. “The second half was one of the best halves we’ve had in terms of fighting back. We made some huge shots down the stretch.”

That was not the case in the opening two periods as West Hills committed 14 turnovers and fell behind 34-24 by the break.

On top of that, LCC landed 7 of 8 shots – including four 3s – to march in from 21-12 after one period. The Mavericks nailed six of nine shots from the floor in the second quarter.

“We had them scouted well,” Kinser said the Mavericks. “But we made too many mistakes early. I guess the best thing is we were resilient.”

In the second half, West Hills gained a firmer grip and solidified its footing. Probably the biggest difference is the Pack turned the ball over a mere six times after intermission.

Brown dropped in a dozen points and Cole cashed in 11 markers in the second half.

“These are the kind of wins that show a team’s character,” Kinser said.

West Hills: Jillian Brown 20, Emily Cole 16, Taylor Ingraham 9, Arielle Bowers 5, Jessica Scott 4, Kylie Cristini 3, Jenesis Hayes 2, Bailey Albers 2.

GRANITE HILLS 64, MONTE VISTA 36 – Unranked and undefeated Granite Hills may be the surprise team in San Diego CIF girls basketball circles.

Make no mistake about it the Eagles (6-0) seem to get better and better after every start.

The one-two punch of Granite Hills veterans JESSICA HARRIS (21 points) and SKYLAR WILLIAMS (18 points) helped the Eagles knock out the visiting Monarchs.

“It was good to go against a team like Monte Vista, they’re loaded with size and athleticism,” said Granite Hills JERRY PARKER. “They a pretty physical team – I think (coach MICHAEL) SKIBBE is doing a good job with them.”

Granite Hills rebounded from a 12-7 first quarter deficit with a 26-7 second quarter run over the Monarchs (5-2).

Junior ANNA VIETTRY sparkled at the hub of the Granite Hills offense dealing a dozen assists. She also logged six steals.

“Anna did a great job of getting Jessica and Skylar going early,” Parker said. “Anna sets the tone – she makes the job for Jessica and Skylar a lot easier. I truly believe Anna is one of the top point guards in the county. She makes the game easy. Hopefully we can put it together and challenge West Hills this year.”

“It was close early then we made a couple of adjustments defensively and I think that’s what turned the game around.”

“In the 2nd quarter we went on a few runs and Anna kicked it out to Jessica for some 3s. We have tried to have every girl who is suited up play, and that’s how it was tonight. Everyone contributed – we have 12 and all 12 played. We’re trying to develop our bench.”

“I think that’s key for us. We have some young kids and I have to be able to give them some minutes. They are improving. I have two girls who have never played before – MARIAH VANLANDINGHAM (6-foot-2), who I talked into playing basketball after I saw her on campus, and ERICA PHILLIPS (6-0), who was a very good soccer player and was talked into playing basketball by the other girls on the team.”

Granite Hills: Jessica Harris 21 (4 reb, 2 ast, 3 blk, 1 stl), Skylar Williams 18 (6 reb, 4 stl), Anna Viettry 7 (4 reb, 12 ast, 6 stl), Keji Kubari 6 (5 reb, 1 ast, 4 blk, 1 stl), Hailey Garner 6 (3 reb, 1 blk, 2 stl), Leena Alyashaa 4, Kayla Kemp 2 (2 reb, 1 stl), Nae Harvey (5 reb, 1 blk), Kaylla Hawkins (2 reb, 1 stl), Erica Phillips (1 reb), Mariah Vanlandingham (1 reb), Madison Lumb (1 reb).

Monte Vista scoring – not reported.

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (12-11-11) — Bidding for the Lady Monarchs Invitational championship on Saturday (Dec. 10), host Monte Vista fell behind early and eventually was outscored in each of the four quarters as Eastlake claimed the tournament title, 56-46.

It was Monte Vista’s first loss in six starts.

“We just had a bad day as a group,” said Monarchs coach MICHAEL SKIBBE. “We played a great game last night. As good as we played last night, we played badly today. We made mistakes by the boatload. We had them in foul trouble in the 1st half then stopped doing it in the 2nd half. I don’t know if we were just tired.”

Poor shooting hurt the Monarchs as they made only 14 of 50 for 28 percent from the field. They weren’t much better from the free throw line, connecting on just 15 of 29 (52 percent) from the charity stripe.

Junior forward FELICIA PORTER coined a double-double for the Monarchs, finishing with 18 points and 10 rebounds.

Monte Vista: Felicia Porter 18 (10 reb, 2 stl, 2 blk), Dionna Mercer 8 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Jazmine Bradley 7 (2 reb, 1 stl, 2 ast), Stefanie Banks 6 (5 reb, 1 blk), Shamonique Boyd 4 (5 reb, 4 stl, 1 ast, 1 blk), Abigail Vargas 1 (1 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Monica Williams (7 reb).

SERRA 56, MOUNT MIGUEL 36 – It’s not very often that a team coached by Mount Miguel ’s ROBBIE SANDOVAL gets slapped with a 20-point defeat, as was the case in the Black Division Championship of the Matador Classic Saturday (Dec. 10) in Spring Valley.

Furthermore, the Matadors suffered their second consecutive loss for only the second time in two years.

The Matadors were outscored in each of the four quarters by No. 6 ranked Serra (6-0). The Conquistadors were paced by San Diego Union-Tribune cover girl Tylinn Carter, who pitched in 18 points to lead the Qs.

Mount Miguel scored only 13 points in the 2nd half. Sandoval can’t remember the last time his teams have scored so few points over a 16 minute stretch.

“Serra is a quality team with a lot of talent,” Sandoval said. “Their overall experience was obvious. Every game is a learning experience for us.”

Senior SHAY YOUNG rolled a double-double for the Matadors, knocking down 19 points while grabbing 11 rebounds.

Only one other Matador scored more than 2 points in the contest.

“We’ll go back into the lab on Monday and keep working on perfecting our game,” Sandoval said.

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 19 (11 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Kamree Harrison 9 (3 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), Deijah Blanks 2 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Breahna Jones 2 (5 reb), Brooklyn Miller 2 (1 reb, 2 stl), Dejanay Pope 1 (5 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Chantel Yell 1 (4 ast, 4 stl), Zaria Branch (3 reb, 1 stl).

ORANGE GLEN 57, GROSSMONT 38 – The Foothillers (0-5) were overmatched from the get-go, falling behind 18-7 in the first quarter of Saturday’s (Dec. 10) North County Classic game.

They did a little better in the middle two quarters, edging the Patriots (1-3) by a point in the 2nd and staying even with them in the 3rd, but the last quarter was a near-repeat of the first.

“Plain and simple, we are playing awful right now,” lamented Grossmont coach JEFF BICKFORD. “We have to do a better job as a coaching staff to get these girls prepared for battle. The little mistakes – not boxing out, catching the ball in triple threat, hustle on defense – keep adding up.

“Things don’t get any easier for the Foothillers matching up against Poway in the Kiwanis Tournament this Wednesday (Dec. 14).”

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 13, Carly Lopez 9, Bria Miller 8, Danielle Davis 4, Christina Valdez 2, Rae’Chelle Ransaw 2.

SAN DIEGUITO 43, EL CAPITAN 30 – No report received on this Saturday (Dec. 10) North County Classic game.

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (12-10-11) — Undefeated Monte Vista held off visiting Rancho Buena Vista, 60-58, in Friday’s (Dec. 9) Lady Monarchs Invitational in front of their home crowd.

That victory lifted the Monarchs into Saturday’s (Dec. 10) championship game against Eastlake at 4 p.m.

“We pulled it off,” exclaimed Monarchs coach, MICHAEL SKIBBE. “They’re very good.”

SHAMONIQUE BOYD led the Monarchs with 14 points and 8 rebounds, while FELICIA PORTER added 11 markers.

ABIGAIL VARGAS and STEFANIE BANKS each tossed in 10 points.

“With a minute to go Mo (Shamonique Boyd) took a 3-point shot and missed but was fouled,” said Skibbe. “She went to the free throw line and made 2 of 3 to tie the game.”

“Vargas got fouled hard and she went to the line,” he added. “She had missed a couple earlier so she was feeling pressure. But she made both of her free throws. With 2.6 seconds left RBV tried to draw a foul again but we were clean – no fouls.”

“We had four girls with 4 fouls – DIONNA MERCER, Porter, Vargas and Mo,” said Skibbe. “They did a great job of keeping in position and didn’t foul.”

“STEFANIE BANKS had a fantastic game,” said Skibbe. “She played great – it’s the intangible things. She ran the floor today very well, attacked the basket well.

“RBV was solid. We were up 6 at the half then we blew it but then we were able to rally back and win it. This was a great, great game and we came out on the good end of it.”

Monte Vista: Shamonique Boyd-Malone 14 (8 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Felicia Porter 11 (7 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Abigail Vargas 10 (5 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Stefanie Banks 10 (2 reb), Jazmine Bradley 6 (6 reb, 4 ast), Dionna Mercer 5 (1 reb, 2 ast), Kayla Harrell 4 (1 stl).

STEELE CANYON 38, FRANCIS PARKER 30 – Steele Canyon coach DALE PARKER had mixed emotions in Friday’s (Dec. 9) non-league contest with Francis Parker.

Parker, a former coach for the Lancers, had to be pleased that Steele Canyon prevailed to improve their record to 2-3.

“It was an ugly game,” he said. “We didn’t show up to play. Francis Parker had a good game. We weren’t focused. We were just a little better than they were overall. We capitalized on a couple of turnovers but it could have gone either way.”

The Cougars rebounded from a 10-4 first quarter deficit to pull out the victory.

ALI MERLINO, one of the top scorers in East County, knocked down 15 points – half of them coming on 7 of 9 free throw shooting.

MONIQUE VAN added 10 points and 8 rebounds for the Cougars.

Steele Canyon: Ali Merlino 15 (5 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Monique Van 10 (8 reb, 5 ast, 4 stl), Jessica Thompson 6 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Malicia Jordan 6 (5 reb), Rachel Beasley 1 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Alexis Ramos (5 reb, 2 stl).

KEARNY 56, EL CAJON VALLEY 44 – First-year El Cajon Valley coach MARC BOYKINS viewed what happened in Friday’s (Dec. 9) Lady Monarchs Invitational as a positive step.

“To look up in the stands and see how many teams we have filming our games is something that has not happened out here in a while,” Boykins said. “I think what we’ve begun to instill in our kids is taking hold.”

Bottom line is the Braves have won 3 of their first five games.

Even in defeat CHELSEA BALL had 25 points, 22 rebounds and 5 steals for the Braves.

“We still have to iron out some kinks but I think people realize we’re going to be a factor in our league,” Boykins said.

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 25 (22 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl, 1 blk), Micia Lopez 8 (13 reb, 2 ast), Natasha Fernandez 6 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Miranda Mullens 3 (3 reb), Ormani Norris-Green 2 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Joanna De la Cruz (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

EASTLAKE 79, HELIX 16 – Falling behind 35-2 in the first quarter decided Friday’s (Dec. 9) Lady Monarchs Invitational encounter.

Helix: Shotiana Daniels 6 (4 reb), Debbi Cardenas 4 (1 reb, 1 ast), Hayley Singer 2 (5 reb, 3 blk), Brittany Jones 2 (1 reb), Sabrina Reid 2, Lisabella Lemusu (1 ast).

© East County Sports.com
ESCONDIDO (12-9-11) — Make no mistake about it – head coach RYAN KINSER’s West Hills Wolf Pack are for real.

Ranked No. 10 in the latest poll by the San Diego Union-Tribune, the Pack smacked San Pasqual,
64-33, in Thursday’s (Dec. 8) North County Classic encounter.

The Wolf Pack (5-2) race-horsed to a 21-10 first quarter start and then outscored the Golden Eagles in every period thereafter.

“I was happy with our start,” Kinser said. “We played good defense and did a good job of taking care of the basketball.”

Defense is always a West Hills’ strength.

“They couldn’t handle our pressure,” Kinser said.

Next up for the Wolf Pack is a Monday (Dec. 12) visit to La Costa Canyon in a North County Classic battle of Top 10 teams at 7 p.m.

West Hills: Jillian Brown 13, Emily Cole 10, Taylor Aguirre 9, Taylor Ingraham 9, Kylie Cristini 8, Arielle Bowers 8, Bailey Albers 3, Daniana Ghondour 2, Jessica Scott 2.

SANTANA 37, MONTGOMERY 34 – A bucket by Santana’s SYDNEY BLACKBURN broke a 34-34 deadlock in Thursday’s (Dec. 8) non-league battle at Montgomery. SAVANAH FENN added a victory free throw as the Sultans balanced their record at 2-2.

Santana: (no scoring/stats available)

CANYON CREST 62, GROSSMONT 36 – Another sluggish start for Grossmont (0-4) in Thursday’s (Dec. 8) North County Classic at Canyon Crest.

The Foothillers fell behind the Ravens 40-9 after the 1st half and the issue was all but finalized.

Steady DANIELLE DAHLE pumped in 15 points for Grossmont but it wasn’t enough to right the ship.

“This was as ugly a 1st half as you could possibly imagine,” said Foothillers coach JEFF BICKFORD. “ The 2nd half, however, we played much improved defense and outscored them 27-22.

“LARISSA (FOGGIANO) and BRIA (MILLER) played very aggressive in the post, playing their best basketball at this young season.

“Although we have yet to win a game, we have come a long way since I was hired in September. Our tough non-conference schedule will have us prepared for league.”

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 15, Larissa Foggiano 5, Bria Miller 5, Rae’Chelle Ransaw 4, Carly Lopez 3, Megan Reddecliff 2, Danielle Davis 2.

LA JOLLA 57, CHRISTIAN 15 – No report received for this Lady Monarchs Invitational game on Thursday (Dec. 8).

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (12-8-11) — Undefeated Monte Vista used a 44-12 run in the middle two quarters to ground the visiting La Jolla Vikings 56-25 in Wednesday’s (Dec. 7) Lady Monarchs Invitational.

That victory propelled the Monarchs (4-0) to within one game of the tournament championship game on Saturday (Dec. 10), if they defeat Rancho Buena Vista on Friday.

Monarchs coach MICHAEL SKIBBE noted that 7 of his 10 players scored in the 2nd and 3rd quarters and 9 of 10 scored in the game.

Monte Vista Season scoring leader SHAMONIQUE BOYD, playing although ill, did not score. However, she led the team with 8 rebounds.

JAZMINE BRADLEY paced the Monarchs with 19 points, while ABIGAIL VARGAS added 12 points, grabbed 8 steals and dished 4 assists.

Monte Vista: Jazmine Bradley 19 (3 reb, 1 stl, 1 ast), Abigail Vargas 12 (2 reb, 8 stl, 4 ast), Dionna Mercer 6 (1 reb, 6 stl, 2 ast), Felicia Porter 5 (6 reb, 3 stl, 1 ast), Kayla Harrell 4 (3 reb, 2 stl, 1 ast), Stefanie Banks 3 (4 reb, 2 blk, 2 stl, 1 ast), Monique Williams 3 (1 reb), Heather Bell 2, Monica Williams 2 (4 reb, 1 ast), Shamonique Boyd (8 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl, 1 ast).

SANTANA 49, HILLTOP 36 – Host Santana broke into the win column for the first time in four starts in Wednesday’s (Dec. 7) Matador Classic.

Senior HALEY BURTON was the driving force for Santana, knocking down 8 of 13 shots from the field. She also gobbled up 7 rebounds, two less than SAVANAH FENN, who also contributed a dozen points.

Santana used a 17-5 fourth quarter run to decide the issue.

Burton also had 5 steals and 5 blocks while SYDNEY BLACKBURN recorded 8 steals for the Sultans.

Santana: Haley Burton 17 (7 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl, 5 blk), Savanah Fenn 12 (9 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Kayty Grable 7 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Sydney Blackburn 6 (6 reb, 2 ast, 8 stl, 1 blk), Emily Kloss 5 (3 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Veronica Lopez 2 (2 stl), Becca Ramirez (3 reb, 1 stl).

MT. CARMEL 43, MOUNT MIGUEL 40 – Host Mount Miguel will not be playing in Saturday’s championship game of the Matador Classic.

That’s because No. 11 ranked Mt. Carmel (4-0) spoiled the No. 8 rated Matadors’ party with a 17-12 fourth quarter rush on Wednesday’s (Dec. 7) to force the host team into the consolation round.

“They had four seniors on the floor and we had two freshmen and a sophomore, so experience made the difference,” said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL.

Ironically though, it was freshman Alicia Engelhardt who accounted for nearly half the Sundevils’ points as she finished with 21.

“It was a slow-paced game and we don’t really play our best at that gait,” Sandoval noted. “But we lost to a quality team. We chalk it up as a learning experience.”

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 16 (10 reb), Zaria Branch 10 (2 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Kamree Harrison 10 (2 reb), Chantel Yell 2 (3 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Dejanay Pope 1 (2 reb, 1 ast), Deijah Blanks 1 (2 reb, 1 stl), Brooklyn Miller (1 stl).

PATRICK HENRY 41, CHRISTIAN 37 – No report received about this Lady Monarchs Invitational game played on Wednesday (Dec. 7).

RANCHO BERNARDO 47, EL CAPITAN 20 – No report received about this North County Classic game played on Wednesday (Dec. 7).

© East County Sports.com
ENCINITAS (12-7-11) — Despite missing all 12 of its shots in the first quarter of Tuesday’s (Dec. 6) North County Classic at San Dieguito Academy, the Wolf Pack (5-2) regained its composure and rallied from a 14-5 deficit to claim a 58-32 victory.

ARIELLE BOWERS scored a career-high 14 points to pace the Pack. Her totals included 4 for 4 shooting from the field, a pair of treys and 4 free throws.

EMILY COLE hammered down 5 buckets – 2 of them treys – to finish with 12 points for West Hills.

“We shot 0 for 12 from the field in the 1st quarter,” said Wolf Pack coach RYAN KINSER. “Then we settled down a little. We made some adjustments at halftime to stop their two best players, and turned up the pressure a little, made it tougher for them to run their offense. The first half was not good. Defensively we shot them down. We’re off to a good start.”

West Hills gained a 37-14 advantage in the middle two quarters after falling behind 14-5 in the first quarter.

West Hills: Arielle Bowers 14, Emily Cole 12, Jillian Brown 9, Kylie Cristini 7, Daniana Ghondour 7, Taylor Aguirre 6, Jessica Scott 3.

EL CAJON VALLEY 67, CRAWFORD 30 – The Braves blazed their way to a 22-6 first quarter lead and never looked back in Tuesday’s (Dec. 6) non-league encounter with Crawford.

CHELSEA BALL scored a school record 45 points, which included 21 field goals and 3 free throws to go along with 16 rebounds.

NATASHA FERNANDEZ contributed 10 points to the Braves ledger.

“Crawford is a young team,” said Braves coach MARC BOYKINS. “We overmatched them from the start. We were out on an 18-0 run before they scored their first bucket. Then we made substitutions and slowed the game down. I don’t want to embarrass anybody.”

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 45 (16 reb, 1 ast, 3 blk, 3 stl), Natasha Fernandez 10 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Joanna De la Cruz 5 (3 stl), Miranda Mullens 4 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Ormani Norris-Green 4 (2 reb).

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (12-6-11) — It looked like it was going to be a simple victory for El Cajon Valley as the Braves took a 10-0 lead in the 1st quarter of the Lady Monarchs Invitational over visiting Helix on Monday (Dec. 5).

But the issue came down to the final seconds.

“With 8.3 seconds left I called a time out and drew up a play for NATASHA FERNANDEZ, and she hit a 3 from 25 feet out,” said an elated Braves coach MARC BOYKINS. “Everybody just rushed the floor like we had won the CIF championship.”

El Cajon Valley had squeezed out a 43-42 victory over the Highlanders. It was the Braves’ first victory over the Highlanders in more than two decades.

“The thing that I want to do is I want to bring pride back to this school and this community,” Boykins said.

CHELSEA BALL finished with 19 points for the Braves to go along with 16 rebounds and 3 blocked shots. Fourteen of Ball’s rebounds came off the offensive board.

MICIA LOPEZ added 8 points and 8 rebounds – all coming off the offensive glass – for the Braves (2-2).

Helix’s SHOTIANA DANIELS paced the Highlanders with 18 points and 10 rebounds.

SARAH MEREDITH chipped in with 11 points and 7 rebounds for Helix.

“We were up 2 with just over 8 seconds left and El Cajon Valley hit a 3 from half court to win by one point,” lamented Helix first-year coach PATRICK TABOR. “My babies cried but they grew up tonight. From experience like this grows wisdom. I’m proud of them babies. Luck always comes into play at some level.”

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 19 (16, 1 ast, 3 blk, 3 stl), Micia Lopez 8 (8 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Joanna De la Cruz 8 (3 stl), Natasha Fernandez 5 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Miranda Mullens 3 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Ormani Norris-Green (2 reb).

Helix: Shotiana Daniels 18 (10 reb), Sarah Meredith 11 (7 reb, 2 ast), Fuafiva Pulu 9, Hayley Singer 3 (8 reb), Sabrina Reid 1.

MOUNT MIGUEL 51, OLYMPIAN 42 – It’s not very often that Mount Miguel ever trails a game at halftime, but the host Matadors found themselves on the short end of a 31-28 margin at the break in Monday’s (Dec. 5) Matador Classic in Spring Valley.

Even after three quarters, Mount Miguel led only 37-36 over visiting Olympian.

“We were throwing the ball all over the place, trying to play too fast,” said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL.

Bottom line is senior SHAY YOUNG restored order in the 4th quarter, scoring 11 of her game-high 30 points. Overall Young made 12 of 16 free throws while grabbing 6 rebounds.

“This is not one of those games you want to keep on your highlight film,” Sandoval noted. “I mean, how many times have we trailed an opponent at halftime?”

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 30 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Zaria Branch 8 (2 reb, 1 ast), Deijah Blanks 7 (9 reb, 5 stl, 3 blk), Kamree Harrison 4 (5 reb, 1 ast), Breahna Jones 2 (2 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Dejanay Pope (3 reb, 6 stl, 1 blk), Chantel Yell (1 reb, 6 ast, 4 stl), Brooklyn Miller (1 reb, 1 stl).

© East County Sports.com
CORONADO (12-4-11) — Undefeated Granite Hills smoked Ramona in Saturday’s (Dec. 3) championship game of the Coronado Thanksgiving Tournament 64-30.

SKYLAR WILLIAMS, named the event's MVP, poured in 16 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, dished 2 assists and made 3 steals to pace the Eagles (5-0).

“Our chemistry is a lot better than last year,” Granite Hills coach JERRY PARKER said. “I think our point guard, ANNA VIETTRY, deserves a lot of the credit for that. She gets everybody involved.”

“I’m really happy about our 5-0 start but I thought Ramona would give us a tougher game.:

JESSICA HARRIS added 9 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals as she earned All-Tournament honors.

KEJI KUBARI chipped in with 11 points, 8 rebounds and 4 steals for the Eagles.

Granite Hills: Skylar Williams 16 (6 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Keji Kubari 11 (8 reb, 4 stl), Jessica Harris 9 (5 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), Hailey Garner 7 (5 reb, 2 stl), Kaylla Hawkins 7, Nae Harvey 4 (5 ast, 1 stl), Anna Viettry 4 (5 ast, 1 stl), Madison Lumb 4 (3 reb), Erica Phillips 2 (5 reb, 2 stl), Leena Alyashaa (1 reb, 2 stl), Mariah Vanlandingham (2 blk).

MONTE VISTA 56, PATRICK HENRY 20 – DIONNA MERCER knocked down 16 points, added 5 steals, 2 assists and a rebound as the Monarchs punched out Patrick Henry in Saturday’s (Dec. 3) Lady Monarchs Invitational in Spring Valley.

Monte Vista led 15-2 after one quarter and then buried the Patriots in a 20-0 spread in the final period as they rolled their record to 3-0.

“We won the game but we didn’t get better,” said Monte Vista coach MICHAEL SKIBBE. “We stayed where we are. We’ve got to be more sound. There are just things we need to do better. Right now I have expectations of us and think we should have expectations of ourselves. When we play against other teams we’ve got to play better.”

Senior SHAMONIQUE BOYD dominated the boards, pulling down 17 rebounds for the Monarchs.

Monte Vista: Dionna Mercer 16 (1 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl), Jazmine Bradley 9 (4 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl), Abigail Vargas 8 (5 reb, 3 ast, 5 stl), Felicia Porter 8 (4 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl), Shamonique Boyd 7 (17 reb, 3 stl), Kayla Harrell 4 (3 reb, 3 stl), Stefanie Banks 2 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Heather Bell 2 (3 reb), Monica Williams (8 reb, 1 stl), Monique Williams (1 ast).

WEST HILLS 62, HORIZON 35 – Coach RYAN KINSER was pleased that his West Hills Wolf Pack split four games in the prestigious Sweet 16 Tournament, including Saturday’s (Dec. 3) lop-sided win over Horizon.

“To split four games in a quality tournament like this is encouraging for us,” he said. “We could have played in another tournament where we could have just knocked off inferior opponents to pad our record. I know we’ve gotten better by playing in this tournament.”

TAYLOR INGRAHAM helped the Pack exploit the paint against Horizon as she nailed 8 of 16 shots from the field and 5 of 10 free throws for a season-high 21 points.

That in itself should have been enough to please Kinser. However, he noted an excessive number of missed layups by the Pack.

EMILY COLE canned 7 of 13 shots, including a team-best 4 treys as she finished with 18 points.

West Hills: Taylor Ingraham 21, Emily Cole 18, Jillian Brown 7, Kylie Cristini 7, Arielle Bowers 6, Jessica Scott 2, Jenesis Hayes 1.

CORONADO 42, STEELE CANYON 39 – ALI MERLINO scored 17 points while MONIQUE VAN and ALEXIS RAMOS each hauled down 9 rebounds as the Cougars came up short in Saturday’s (Dec. 3) Coronado Thanksgiving Tournament third-place game.

The Cougars (2-3) took a 25-20 lead into the final period but then faltered on offense, suffering their third loss in five games.

“It was a good game,” said first-year head Cougars head coach DALE PARKER. “My best player, ALI MERLINO, fouled out early in the game. That choked us. Our defense was solid, we just fell short. I was appreciative of the effort we gave tonight. We had the ball with nine seconds left but weren’t able to get a shot off.”

Steele Canyon: Ali Merlino 17 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 4 blk), Monique Van 6 (9 reb, 3 stl, 4 ast), Alexis Ramos 2 (9 reb, 2 stl), Rachel Beasley 2 (4 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Jessica Thompson (1 reb, 2 ast), Mercedes Dupre-Rogers 2 (1 blk).

VALLEY CENTER 58, GROSSMONT 42 – DANIELLE DAHLE, who has scored 20 plus points in three consecutive games, rattled in 23 markers against Valley Center during Saturday’s (Dec. 3) North County Classic encounter at Grossmont.

Dahle’s totals included 6 of 11 free throw shooting and one trey to go along with 9 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 blocks.

CARLY LOPEZ scored a career-high 12 points. She also nailed 2 treys and has hit 5 triples in her last two games.

Six-foot-2 junior DANIELLE DAVIS grabbed 10 rebounds to lead the Foothillers.

“We knew it was going to be a physical game in the post tonight,” said Foothillers coach JEFF BICKFORD. “They have three post players averaging double digit points and we stressed to make them earn every bucket down low. We did a lot better job boxing out, but sent them to the line 31 times, and they converted 21 of them. Coming into the game they were shooting 48 percent as a team at the line.”

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 23 (9 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk), Carly Lopez 12 (1 reb, 1 stl), Danielle Davis 5 (10 reb, 2 stl), Christina Valdez (2 stl), Briana Phillips (1 reb), Bria Miller (2 reb), Megan Reddecliff (2 reb, 1 ast), Rae’chelle Ransan 2 (1 reb, 2 stl),

CALEXICO 68, VALHALLA 27 – It’s been a rugged beginning for the Norsemen, who suffered their fourth straight loss in Saturday’s (Dec. 3) Imperial Valley Invitational.

“We only had five girls for one reason or another,” said Valhalla coach AL SILVA. “Fortunately nobody fouled out.”

That didn’t matter as the Bulldogs outscored the Norsemen in all four quarters.

Valhalla: Kandice Kalasho 11 (2 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl), Alexis Silva 7 (8 reb, 1 stl), Hayley Swanger 5 (5 reb), Shyla Criger-Phillip 4 (9 reb, 2 ast), Jessica May (6 reb).

POWAY 69, EL CAPITAN 16 – Only one thing has been the same in El Capitan ’s first two games this season, and that is the fact that the Vaqueros scored 16 points each time against top-flight competition in North County Classic.

El Capitan: Kira Lopez 6 (9 reb), Kim Galvan 5 (3 reb, 1 stl), Bekah Leonard 5 (1 ast), Alejandra Parsons (4 reb), Katie Davidson (3 reb), Cierra Cutler (2 reb, 1 stl).

SANTANA at BONITA VISTA – No report received about this Matador Classic game of Saturday (Dec. 3).

© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (12-3-11) — SHATIANA DANIELS scored a career-high 21 points to hoist Helix to a 44-30 victory over University City in Friday’s (Dec. 2) Lady Monarch Invitational contest.

SARAH MEREDITH added 11 points and 8 rebounds for the Highlanders.

“I can say I finally got a win,” exclaimed Helix first-year coach PATRICK TABOR. "Man, it feels so good. Our girls are staying positive even though I’m tough on them. They’re getting used to me. We’re going to win or lose as a team.”

Helix: Shatiana Daniels 21 (6 reb), Sarah Meredith 11 (8 reb, 3 stl), Hayley Singer 8 (5 reb), Tenae Johnson 4 (1 stl), Rubine Djemba (2 reb), Debbi Cardenas (1 reb).

WEST HILLS 58, Sacramento-BRADSHAW 37 – JILLIAN BROWN hit 7 of 12 from the floor and made 3 of 6 free throws for 17 points as West Hills won for the third time in five games of Friday’s (Dec. 2) Sweet 16 Tournament at La Jolla County Day.

“We did real low down low because they had a size advantage,” said Wolf Pack coach RYAN KINSER. “This has been great competition for us, which helps us measure our strength.”

West Hills: Jillian Brown 17, Kylie Cristini 9, Taylor Ingraham 8, Taylor Aguirre 8, Jessica Scott 6, Emily Cole 4, Jenesis Hayes 5, Arielle Bowers 1.

MOUNT MIGUEL 51, MONTGOMERY 22 – ZARIA BRANCH scored 22 points in Mount Miguel ’s defeat of visiting Montgomery in Friday’s (Dec. 2) Matador Classic contest.

“I’m extremely disappointed by our sloppy play,” said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL. “We should have won this game by a lot more. Our girls should not be proud of how we played tonight.”

Senior SHAY YOUNG pulled off a double-double of 12 points and 12 rebounds for the Matadors.

Mount Miguel: Zaria Branch 22 (3 reb, 7 stl, 1 blk), Shay Young 12 (12 reb, 6 ast, 5 stl), Kamree Harrison 8 (4 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Dejanay Pope 4 (3 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl), Chantel Yell 2 (1 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Brooklyn Miller 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Breahna Jones 1 (1 reb, 4 stl).

SAN DIEGUITO 47, GROSSMONT 40 – DANIELLE DAHLE scored 22 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and dished 4 assists as the Foothillers fell short in Friday’s (Dec. 2) North County Classic contest.

“Our girls were a lot more loose today than our first game,” said Grossmont coach JEFF BICKFORD. “We had a few other girls step up and chip in some buckets tonight. My scouting report was to shut down their No. 23, Harper Crickmore, who has been averaging 10 points, 15 rebounds. She scored 6 so I was pleased with Dahle’s defensive effort on her.”

“However, our defense is still struggling a bit. We are a very young team, having only three players with varsity experience from last year’s squad.”

“I was very happy to see CARLY LOPEZ, who had three 3s, shoot with confidence tonight,” Bickford said. “Our twin towers – DANIELLE DAHLE and DANIELLE DAVIS – played much better though Dahle struggled with early foul trouble. She continues to lead the team and is an outstanding team leader – one of the highest basketball IQ’s I’ve been around in my 12 years of coaching.”

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 22 (8 reb, 2 stl, 4 ast, 2 blk), Carly Lopez 11 (2 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk), Danielle Davis 5 (8 reb), Christina Valdez 2 (2 reb, 1 ast), Megan Reddecliff (3 reb), Larissa Foggiano (1 reb, 1 stl), Brianna Phillips (1 stl), Bria Miller (1 stl), Rae’chelle Ransan (1 reb).

EASTLAKE 69, EL CAJON VALLEY 42 – What first-year Braves coach MARC BOYKINS needs is to clone CHELSEA BALL. If he had more than one of the 5-foot-9 seniors the season would be a lot more productive.

Ball scored 19 points and grabbed 16 rebounds but it was not near enough as El Cajon Valley lost to Eastlake in Friday’s (Dec. 2) Lady Monarchs Invitational contest.

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 19 (16 reb, 5 stl, 1 ast), Micia Lopez 9 (8 reb, 1 stl), Joanna De la Cruz 8 (3 ast, 5 stl), Natasha Fernandez 6 (2 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Ormani Norris-Green (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl).

EC-SOUTHWEST 77, VALHALLA 39; IMPERIAL 42, VALHALLA 30 – It’s been a rugged beginning for the Norsemen, who have dropped three straight in the Imperial Valley Invitational to date. (READ MORE HERE; courtesy, Imperial Valley Press).

“Yesterday was windy but today was nice and sunny,” said Valhalla coach AL SILVA. “The only thing I think that’s been cold is our offense in the 4th quarter. We’re a work in progress. Only seven of our players made the trip and they’re young. We are definitely short-handed.”

Valhalla vs. EC-Southwest: Alexis Silva 13 (4 reb, 2 stl), Hayley Swanger 11 (3 reb, 3 stl), Shyla Criger-Philipp 9 (12 reb, 1 stl), Kandice Kalasho 7 (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Jessica May (1 reb).

Valhalla vs. Imperial: Kandice Kalasho 20 (1 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl), Alexis Silva 6 (7 reb, 3 stl), Hayley Swanger 3 (3 reb, 4 stl), Moriah Shields 1 (3 reb, 2 stl), Shyla Criger-Philipp (3 reb, 2 blk).

OCEANSIDE df. EL CAPITAN – No report was received for this North County Classic contest on Friday (Dec. 2).

OTAY RANCH 63, CHRISTIAN 39 – No report was received for this Lady Monarchs Invitational game on Friday (Dec.2).

© East County Sports.com
GOLDEN TRIANGLE (12-2-11) — West Hills High coach RYAN KINSER knew his Wolf Pack would be challenged by competing in the upper-echelon Sweet 16 at La Jolla Country Day this week.

Facing off against Bakersfield-Stockdale on Thursday (Dec. 1), the Wolf Pack could not get its offense in motion as it succumbed 48-36.

“It may not look like it, but we improved since last night,” said Kinser.

EMILY COLE accounted for more than one-third of the West Hills scoring as she finished with 13.

The Wolf Pack will continue play in the Sweet 16 Tournament Friday at 2:45 p.m.

West Hills: Emily Cole 13, Jillian Brown 7, Jenesis Hayes 6, Arielle Bowers 4, Bailey Albers 2, Jessica Scott 2, Taylor Ingraham 2.

COACHELLA VALLEY 59, VALHALLA 38 – No information available from this Imperial Valley Invitational game at Imperial High.

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (12-1-11) — Freshman ZARIA BRANCH, a 5-foot-8 guard, nailed 23 points and senior SHAY YOUNG added 21 points and a dozen rebounds as Mount Miguel smoked visiting Escondido 61-31 in Wednesday’s (Nov. 30) Matador Classic.

Sophomore DEJANAY POPE did not pose much of a scoring threat but crashed the boards for 15 rebounds and 5 blocks as the Matadors improved to 2-0.

Mount Miguel guard Chantell Yell (5). (Photo by Daniel Salinas, MMHS student)

This game was decided in the third quarter when Mount Miguel gained a 21-7 scoring advantage. Branch and Young scored 8 points apiece during that stretch.

“We’re still trying to feel things out,” said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL.

Mount Miguel: Zaria Branch 23 (5 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Shay Young 21 (12 reb, 5 ast, 5 stl), Breanna Jones 5 (3 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Dejanay Pope 4 (15 reb, 2 stl, 5 blk), Kamree Harrison 4 (3 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl), Chantel Yell 2 (1 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Brooklyn Miller 2 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl).

MATER DEI 56, WEST HILLS 37 – Wolf Pack coach RYAN KINSER admits that his team is capable of going out to a fast start if he elected to play against a soft schedule.

“That’s not what we want,” he said. “I know a lot of the teams out there just want to pile up wins but I’m trying to build our future and you can only do that by playing tough teams.”

Mater Dei is a Top 10 team that outscored the Wolf Pack 30-12 in the middle two periods of the La Jolla Country Day Sweet 16 Tournament on Wednesday (Nov. 30).

“We were doing OK in the 1st period (trailing 19-17) until they increased the pressure (outscoring the Pack 17-4),” Kinser said.

Senior JILLIAN BROWN has scored 31 points in the first two games, including 11 against Mater Dei.

TAYLOR INGRAHAM chipped in with 10 points for the Pack.

West Hills: Jillian Brown 11, Taylor Ingraham 10, Bailey Albers 8, Daniana Ghondour 2, Jessica Scott 2, Emily Cole 2, Kylie Cristini 2.

THE ROCK 52, VALHALLA 48 – Visiting The Rock Academy used a 23-13 fourth-quarter run to steal a victory from Valhalla in Wednesday’s (Nov. 30) Imperial Valley Invitational.

KANDICE KALASHO led Valhalla with 23 points, including a trio of 3-pointers in addition to 7 assists and 8 steals.

Senior rookie ALEXIS SILVA hit four 3’s to finish with 14 points and 11 rebounds for the Norsemen.

SHYLA CRIGER-PHILIPP was a force on the boards for Valhalla, hauling down 12 rebounds.

Valhalla led by as many as 8 points in the 3rd period but faltered in the final quarter.

Valhalla: Kandice Kalasho 23 (5 reb, 7 ast, 8 stl), Alexis Silva 14 (11 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl, 1 blk), Shyla Criger-Philipp 4 (12 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), MacKenzie Castro 4 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Hayley Swanger 3 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Jessica May (4 reb, 2 stl).

WESTVIEW 66, GROSSMONT 31 – Top 10 power Westview took a 20-3 first quarter lead in Wednesday’s (Nov. 30) North County Classic contest and never looked back.

“We put our press in and created a few turnovers to start the 2nd quarter,” said Grossmont coach JEFF BICKFORD. “However, our defense needs much improvement. We will continue to improve each day and work on our fundamentals.”

DANIELLE DAHLE popped in 18 points to pace the Foothillers.

“This was a matchup of two friends who coached together the last two years at El Capitan,” related Bickford. “Coach FRANK QUINONES has a lot of talented players – seven returning from last year’s Division II championship team. I wish him and his team the best this season.”

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 18 (6 reb, 4 blk, 3 stl), Megan Reddecliff 5 (6 reb), Carly Lopez 3 (1 reb, 3 stl, 1 ast), Danielle Davis 2 (6 reb), Rae’chelle Ransan 2 (2 reb), Brianna Phillips 1 (2 reb, 1 stl), Larissa Foggiano (2 reb, 1 ast).

THE BISHOP’S 66, SANTANA 31 – No report on this Matador Classic game on Wednesday (Nov. 30).

© East County Sports.com
SAN DIEGO (11-30-11) — CHELSEA BALL is probably the most talented female athlete on the El Cajon Valley High campus.

Given her performance in the Braves’ 49-28 victory over University City in the Lady Monarchs Invitational on Tuesday (Nov. 29), there should be no argument.

Ball scored 33 points, gobbled up 12 rebounds and made 8 steals against the Centurions to help give first-year coach and El Cajon Valley alum MARC BOYKINS his initial victory as the Braves head coach.

Ball banged in 15 of 30 shots and 3 of 9 free throws in one of her finest outings in El Cajon Valley silks. She made 10 points in each of the 2nd and 4th quarters.

MICIA LOPEZ added 11 points as the Braves balanced their record at 1-1.

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 33 (12 reb, 1 ast, 8 stl), Micia Lopez 11 (2 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Joanna De la Cruz 3 (1 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Ormani Norris-Green 2 (6 reb, 2 ast, 2 blk, 1 stl), Natasha Fernandez (7 reb, 3 ast, 7 stl), Miranda Mullens (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Toni England (3 reb).

MONTE VISTA 61, CHRISTIAN 21 – Host Monte Vista blanked Christian in the third period and held the Patriots to single digits in the other three periods to roll its record to 2-0 in Tuesday’s (Nov. 29) Lady Monarchs Invitational.

Junior JAZMINE BRADLEY paced a balanced Monarchs attack with a dozen points.

ABIGAIL VARGAS pitched in 11 points and 6 steals, while SHAMONIQUE BOYD dominated the boards with 12 rebounds.

Senior STEFANIE BANKS nailed 5 of 8 shots from the field for 10 points.

“She shot really well tonight,” said Monte Vista coach MICHAEL SKIBBE. “When she plays hard she’s really good. She put some good stuff on the board.”

The game was over by halftime as Monte Vista led 35-14.

“A couple of our girls got hurt and sat out but others stepped up,” Skibbe said. “We have a real impressive group of sophomore players.

Monte Vista: Jazmine Bradley 12 (5 reb, 2 stl, 2 ast), Abigail Vargas 11 (2 reb, 6 stl, 2 ast), Stefanie Banks 10 (2 reb, 3 stl, 1 ast), Shamonique Boyd 8 (12 reb, 4 ast), Monica Williams 6 (3 reb, 1 stl), Felicia Porter 5 (8 reb, 4 stl), Monique Williams 5 (2 reb, 2 stl, 1 ast), Kayla Harrell 2 (5 reb, 1 ast), Heather Bell 2 (2 reb, 1 ast).

WEST HILLS 69, MISSION HILLS 42 – Six-foot-1 senior JILLIAN BROWN knocked down 20 points on Tuesday (Nov. 29) to lead host West Hills to its second straight victory in the North County Classic.

“She made some nice shots from the outside – like from 12 to 15 feet,” said Wolf Pack coach RYAN KINSER of Brown, who was 7-for-10 from the floor including one trey.

Brown was also 5 of 7 from the free throw line.

In typical Wolf Pack fashion, eight players contributed to the scoring.

“I thought we shot well as a group,” said Kinser of the Pack, which netted better than 50 percent of its 54 shots from the floor.

West Hills will face Top 10 foe Mater Dei in Wednesday’s (Nov. 30) opening round of the Sweet 16 at La Jolla Country Day at 4:30.

West Hills: Jillian Brown 20, Taylor Aquirre 8, Emily Cole 8, Arielle Bowers 7, Bailey Albers 7, Jenesis Hayes 7, Taylor Ingraham 5,, Kylie Cristini 5, Jessica Scott 2.

MIRA MESA 66, HELIX 27 – One has to give first-year Helix coach PATRICK TABOR credit for being patient.

In the first two games of the season his Highlanders have scored only 47 points while surrendering 113, which computes to an 0-2 start following Tuesday's (Nov. 29) action in the Lady Monarchs Invitational.

“We just have to keep the girls working on a positive attitude, working hard and not giving up,” Tabor said. “I told them ‘ Rome wasn’t built in a day.’”

Helix: Sarah Meredith 6 (3 reb), Shirah Hancock 4 (2 reb, 2 ast), Hayley Singer 4 (5 reb), Shatiana Daniels 4 (4 reb), Dominique Jones 2 (2 reb), Debbi Cardenas 2, Ashley Smith 2, Rubin Djemea 2, Sabrina Reid 1, Bella Lemushu (2 reb).

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (11-29-11) — Some might say the Mount Miguel Matadors are starting over, as their starting lineup will feature three freshmen this season. PHOTOS

Maybe so but so far, tradition continues to reign supreme at Mount Miguel. The Matadors used a 22-1 scoring run in the 2nd quarter of the Matador Classic on Monday (Nov. 28) – sparked by freshman KAMREE HARRISON’s 10 points – to turn the game into a 61-19 rout over the visiting Morse Tigers.

“I was unexpectedly surprised by the play of our freshmen,” Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL said. “I thought the three of them played extremely well, especially considering we were missing two starters.”

Harrison finished with 15 points, the majority coming on a trio of 3-pointers.

Freshman teammate ZARIA BRANCH also netted 15 markers, hitting 7 of 10 free throws while logging 5 steals, one less than Harrison.

The third freshman, BROOKLYN MILLER – sister of UNLV’s DANIELLE MILLER – chipped in with 4 points.

Returning senior stalwart SHAY YOUNG paced the Matadors with 20 points, 6 rebounds, 3 steals and 3 blocks. Sophomore letterman DEJANAY POPE led the Matadors with 10 rebounds.

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 20 (6 reb, 3 stl, 3 blk), Zaria Branch 15 (2 reb, 3 ast, 5 stl, 1 blk), Kamree Harrison 15 (1 reb, 3 ast, 6 stl), Dejanay Pope 5 (10 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Brooklyn Miller 4 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Breanna Jones 2 (1 reb, 4 ast, 7 stl).

SWEETWATER 48, SANTANA 32 – The season began on a high note for the Sultans as they took a 12-10 first quarter lead in Monday’s (Nov. 28) Matador Classic contest.

After that though, the middle two quarters belonged to Sweetwater as the Red Devils outscored the Sultans 25-10.

None of the Sultans reached double scoring digits although senior HALEY BURTON was a force on the boards with 12 rebounds to go along with 8 points.

Santana: Haley Burton 8 (12 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl, 2 blk), Sydney Blackburn 7 (8 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Kayty Grable 6 (3 reb, 2 ast), Emily Kloss 5 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Savanah Fenn 4 (4 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Savannah Garcia 2 (3 reb, 1 ast), Kylie Brees (5 reb), Veronica Lopez (1 reb), Becca Ramirez (1 stl).

TORREY PINES 68, EL CAPITAN 16 – The Falcons raced to a 26-1 first quarter lead and never looked back in Monday’s (Nov. 28) North County Classic at Torrey Pines.

No other information was available.

© East County Sports.com
CORONADO (11-27-11) — Speaking of fast starts... the Granite Hills girls have posted four victories in two days at the Coronado Thanksgiving Tournament, including 73-12 over Hilltop and 57-50 over host Coronado on Saturday (Nov. 26).

The Eagles steamrollered to a 28-2 first quarter lead against Hilltop as SKYLAR WILLIAMS tallied half of her 18 points, knocking down four baskets and a free throw.

JESSICA HARRIS dropped in 3 triples – all in the 3rd quarter – as part of her 14 point total.

Against Coronado, Skylar Williams set the pace with 20 points, including one three and 7 of 11 free throw shooting.

Anna Viettry totaled 19 points as the Eagles broke a 38-38 tie in the final period.

Granite Hills had a solid night against Coronado, netting 19 of 27.

Granite Hills vs. Hilltop: Skylar Williams 18, Anna Viettry 17, Jessica Harris 14, Leena Alyashaa 6, Kayla Kemp 5, Hailey Garner 4, Keji Kubari 4, Nae Harvey 3, Madison Lumb 2. (No stats reported)

Granite Hills vs. Coronado: Skylar Williams 20, Anna Viettry 19, Jessica Harris 9, Keji Kubari 4, Kayla Kemp 4, Hailey Garner 1.

WEST HILLS 61, TORREY PINES 33 – EMILY COLE tossed in 14 points and TAYLOR INGRAHAM added 13 Saturday (Nov. 26) as the Wolf Pack opened the season with a lop-sided victory over Torrey Pines in the North County Classic.

“We were a little shaky early then jumped out to a big lead,” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “We shot the ball really well. Overall it was a very, very good game. We were a little sloppy – made over 20 turnovers. But we executed the game plan well. Defensively we played a good game. To put 61 points on the board and hold them to 33... it was a good thing.”

West Hills: Emily Cole 14, Taylor Ingraham 13, Jillian Brown 9, Kylie Cristini 7, Bailey Albers 7, Arielle Bowers 5, Jessica Scott 4, Daniana Ghandour 2,

RAMONA 58, STEELE CANYON 39;
STEELE CANYON 74, CLAIREMONT 12 – For the second straight day Steele Canyon split a double-header in Saturday’s (Nov. 26) Coronado Thanksgiving Tournament.

ALI MERINO scored 28 points in a losing effort against Ramona. MONIQUE VAN led the Cougars with 12 rebounds.

In the nightcap the Cougars raced to a 42-4 halftime lead over the Clairemont Chieftains.

TIANA TEO landed three 3-point buckets for the Cougars, who had five players reach double digits against Clairemont.

Steele Canyon vs. Ramona: Ali Merino 28 (7 reb, 1 stl), Monique Van 7 (12 reb, 5 stl, 5 ast), Malicia Jordan 2 (3 reb), Tiana Teo 2 (2 ast), Alexis Ramos (4 reb), Rachel Beasley (3 reb, 2 stl, 2 ast), Jessica Thompson (1 ast).

Steele Canyon vs. Clairemont: Tiana Teo 17 (1 reb, 4 stl, 2 ast), Monique Van 14 (5 reb, 12 stl, 8 ast, 1 blk), Ali Merlino 12 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk), Alexis Ramos 12 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Rachel Beasley 11 (2 reb, 8 stl, 2 ast), Malicia Jordan 4 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Jessica Thompson 4 (2 stl, 1 ast).

RANCHO BUENA VISTA df. CHRISTIAN – No report received for this Lady Monarchs Invitational contest on Saturday (Nov. 26).

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (11-26-11) — SHAMONIQUE BOYD-MALONE registered 17 points and 11 rebounds as host Monte Vista opened the season with an easy victory Friday (Nov. 25) night over Otay Ranch, 65-48, in the Lady Monarchs Invitational.

“We did what we do – we wear teams down,” said Monarchs coach MICHAEL SKIBBE. “Our team this year has five of last year’s varsity returning and four from the JV, plus two transfers. All but two have been with us since their freshman year.”

“The kids believe in what they’re doing. Otay Ranch was right there in the first half. But you have to have more than one big girl. Our team has six girls who are 5-foot-11 or better.”

The Monarchs broke the game open with an 18-2 run in the third quarter.

JAZMINE BRADLEY added 15 points and ABIGAIL VARGAS chipped in with 10 more.

Skibbe reported that last year’s Monarchs standout DEANNA BEMBRY, who was in attendance, is on academic scholarship to UCLA and has been approached by the Bruins crew coach with a possible athletic scholarship.

Monte Vista: Shamonique Boyd-Malone 17 (11 reb, 2 stl, 4 ast), Jazmine Bradley 15 (5 reb, 3 stl, 3 ast), Abigail Vargas 10 (4 reb, 7 stl, 5 ast), Stefanie Banks 6 (5 reb, 1 ast), Heather Bell 4 (1 stl), Kayla Harrell 4 (4 reb, 1 ast), Felicia Porter 4 (6 reb), Monique Williams 3 (3 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl, 2 ast), Dionna Mercer 2 (1 reb, 4 ast), Monica Williams (7 reb, 1 stl).

STEELE CANYON 54, FRANCIS PARKER 18 – It was a bittersweet win for Steele Canyon first-year coach DALE PARKER, who used to be the Francis Parker girls basketball coach, as the Cougars captured a first-round victory in the Coronado Thanksgiving Tournament Friday (Nov. 25).

“We only have two returners from last year’s varsity – ALI MERLINO and MONIQUE VAN,” said Parker. “We’re still trying to find the right chemistry. We played good defense today; the offense hasn’t gotten up yet.”

Merino paced the Cougars with 26 points and 11 rebounds, while Van added 12 points.

Steele Canyon: Ali Merlino 26 (11 reb, 3 ast, 5 stl, 4 blk), Monique Van 12 (9 reb, 8 ast, 7 stl), Alexis Ramos 6 (8 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Tiana Teo 5 (3 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Jessica Thompson 3 (3 reb, 3 ast), Rachel Beasley 2 (2 reb, 2 stl, 2 blk).

CHULA VISTA 37, STEELE CANYON 34 – In the second round of Friday’s Coronado Thanksgiving Tournament, the Cougars fell three points short.

Steele Canyon: Ali Merlino 11 (7 reb, 3 stl, 1 blk), Monique Van 7 (9 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Tiana Teo 5 (1 reb, 1 stl), Rachel Beasley 5 (4 reb, 1 ast), Alexis Ramos 4 ( 10 reb, 1 ast, 3 blk), Jessica Thompson 2 (2 reb, 1 stl).

GRANITE HILLS 66, SAN DIEGUITO 26 – The Granite Hills Eagles opened the season with the Coronado Thanksgiving Tournament at Coronado on Friday (Nov. 25) with a two game sweep.

Granite Hills’ SKYLAR WILLIAMS scored 16 points against San Dieguito.

Granite Hills: Skylar Williams 16, Jessica Harris 15, Anna Viettry 12, Hailey Garner 6, Keji Kubari 5, Kayla Kemp 2, Kaylla Hawkins 2, Leena Alyashaa 2.

GRANITE HILLS 102, HOOVER 24 – In Granite Hills’ second game of the Coronado Thanksgiving Tournament the Eagles came on strong.

SKYLAR WILLIAMS scored 21 points against Hoover and JESSICA HARRIS scored 21.

Granite Hills: Jessica Harris 21, Skylar Williams 21, Keji Kubari 14, Anna Viettry 11, Nae Harvey 8, Leena Alyashaa 7, Kayla Kemp 6, Hailey Garner 6, Madison Lumb 4, Mariah Vanlandingham 2, Kaylla Hawkins 2.

KEARNY 47, HELIX 20 – The Highlanders are in a rebuilding mode as they showed in Friday’s (Nov. 25) Lady Monarchs Invitational opener.

“We’re real young,” said first-year Highlanders girls basketball coach PATRICK TABOR. “We have a lot of sophomores and have a lot learning to do. We’re a work in progress.”

SHATIANA DANIELS led the Highlanders with 10 points.

Helix: Shatiana Daniels 10, Shirah Hancock 4, Hayley Singer 3, Sarah Meredith 2, Ashely Smith 1. (No stats reported)

MIRA MESA 55, EL CAJON VALLEY 42 – CHELSEA BALL muscled up a double-double of 12 points and 19 rebounds in Friday’s (Nov. 25) season-opening Lady Monarchs Invitational.

But it wasn’t enough to derail Mira Mesa.

MICIA LOPEZ chipped in with 12 points for El Cajon Valley.

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 12 (19 reb, 4 stl, 3 ast), Micia Lopez 12 (6 reb, 1 stl), Natasha Fernandez 7 (9 reb, 3 stl), Joanna Delacruz 6 (5 stl, 3 ast), Ormani 5 (3 reb, 2 stl, 3 ast).