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EL CAJON (1-31-12) — No. 11 ranked West Hills High scored only one point in the second quarter of Monday’s (Jan. 30) Grossmont Hills League affair, which had to have host Grossmont believing its 24-10 lead at intermission was going to result in an upset victory.

“I am sure many were shocked that we were up 21-10 at the half,” said Grossmont coach JEFF BICKFORD. “In fact CARLY LOPEZ hit a 3 just after the buzzer went off at the end of the second quarter that did not count.

“Holding West Hills to 1 point in the second quarter was great to see. We knew they would be coming out aggressive the second half both offensively and defensively.”

“After playing so poorly on Friday, I was sure proud of our girls tonight,” Bickford added.

West Hills’ JILLIAN BROWN banged in 14 points and EMILY COLE scored 10 points – more than half of them coming on a pair of treys – leading to a 43-36 triumph.

“Jillian and Emily came up big in the second half (20 between the two),” said Wolf Pack coach RYAN KINSER. “And JENESIS HAYES also came up big off the bench in the second half.”

A frustrated Kinser replayed the game in his mind.

“We got out played, out worked, and out coached from start to finish – bottom line,” he fumed. “The second quarter was the worst quarter I’ve seen West Hills girls basketball play since I took over 5 years ago!

“We weren’t prepared and I’ll take 100 percent blame for that. We spend all of our time and energy getting ready for (last) Saturday’s San Clemente game and this Wednesday’s (Feb. 1) game vs. Granite.

“We didn’t overlook Grossmont but we didn’t spend time preparing like we usually do for other teams, and that’s on me. They came out and played man and we weren’t ready for it.”

DANIELLE DAHLE finished with 22 points, including 9 of 12 free throw shooting, 8 rebounds and 5 blocks for the Foothillers.

DANIELLE DAVIS added 8 points and a dozen rebounds for Grossmont (11-9, 3-1 GHL).

“We have a lot of work to do tomorrow at practice if we plan on competing vs. Granite on Wednesday,” Kinser said.

West Hills: Jillian Brown 14, Emily Cole 10, Kylie Cristini 5, Daniana Ghandour 5, Taylor Aguirre 4, Jenesis Hayes 3, Bailey Albers 2.

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 22 (8 reb, 1 ast, 5 blk), Danielle Davis 8 (12 reb, 2 stl), Katarina Schweitzer 4 (6 reb, 2 stl), Carly Lopez 2 (3 reb), Megen Reddecliff (7 reb, 2 stl), Christina Valdez (2 reb), Larissa Foggiano (1 reb, 1 stl).

SANTANA 56, EL CAPITAN 25 – HALEY BURTON scored 15 points and grabbed 30 rebounds as the Sultans squashed El Capitan in Monday’s (Jan. 30) Grossmont Valley League action.

Burton, who had 15 offensive boards and 15 defensive boards, broke the Santana record set by DELIA FILES. As a team Santana has 82 rebounds which also has to rank high on the team ladder.

Burton’s individual count was one shy of the Grossmont Conference mark set by El Capitan ’s TANIA STRONG in 1995.

The San Diego CIF record for rebounds in a game is 46 collected by San Diego High’s Cynthia Purvis. She did it twice.

Santana: Haley Burton 15 (30 reb, 1 ast, 6 stl, 3 blk), Kayti Grable 9 (13 reb, 2 stl), Sydney Blackburn 8 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Veronica Martinez 7 (1 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Kylie Brees 6 (3 reb), Savannah Garcia 5 (8 reb, 1 stl), Becca Ramirez 2 (7 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Taylor Estes 2 (1 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl, 3 blk), Emily Kloss 2 (1 reb, 1 ast), Ariel Rassmussen (11 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Savanah Fenn (4 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl).

El Capitan: No scoring or stats reported for this Grossmont Valley League game.

STEELE CANYON 69, VALHALLA 30 – The Cougars, who were trying to shake off a humbling loss to West Hills last Friday, raced out to a 25-3 first quarter lead behind the shooting of MONIQUE VAN, ALI MERLINO and TIANA TEO in Monday’s (Jan. 30) Grossmont Hills League contest.

Steele Canyon also forced multiple turnovers and had six steals during the first quarter.

The Norsemen tried to stay close, behind the sharp shooting of KANDICE KALASHO, who was putting up NBA distance 3-pointers – four of them – and making them.

The Cougars, however, were too much for the Norsemen, as they went on to

win the final 3 quarters, including a 19-point fourth quarter, putting the Norsemen away by a score of 69 to 30.

The Norsemen were led by Kalasho who finished the night with 20 points.

The Cougars were led by Teo, who pumped in a career high 24 points, including four 3-pointers. Teo also added 6 rebounds and 4 steals. Van and Merlino both chipped in 15 points apiece. Merlino also had 9 rebounds to go with 4 blocked shots. Van was strong on defense, pulling down 7 rebounds, 6 steals, 7 assists and 2 blocks.

“We went 3-for-17 from the line,” Valhalla coach AL SILVA said. “When you have someone go 0-for-11 at the line it doesn’t help. Tio had four 3s tonight. We tried to stop Merlino and Van and didn’t do a very good job on either of them. Basically we just kinda gave up.”

Steele Canyon: Tiana Teo 24 (6 reb, 4 stl, 2 ast), Monique Van 15 (7 reb, 2 blk, 6 stl, 7 ast), Ali Merlino 15 (9 reb, 4 blk, 1 stl, 3 ast), Rachel Beasley 9 (5 reb, 4 stl, 4 ast), Alexis Ramos 4 (4 reb, 2 blk, 2 stl, 1 ast), Malicia Jordan 2 (5 reb, 1 stl, 1 ast), Mercedes Dupre-Rogers (1 reb, 1 stl).

Valhalla: Kandice Kalasho 21 (3 reb, 1 blk, 3 stl), Shyla Criger-Philipp 4 (12 reb, 2 blk), Hayley Swanger 3 (3 reb, 2 stl), Sarah Federico 2 (5 reb), Jessica May (4 reb, 1 stl), Alexis Silva (2 reb, 1 blk), Melanie Jirjis (2 reb), MacKenzie Castro (1 reb).

GRANITE HILLS 78, HELIX 31 – SKYLAR WILLIAMS scored a career-high 27 points, which included burying 10 of 13 free throws as the Eagles pushed their record to 23-3 and 5-0 in Monday’s (Jan. 30) Grossmont Hills League rout of Helix on the Highlanders’ home court.

Williams also made 5 steals and grabbed 9 rebounds for Granite Hills, which posted its 8th straight win.

The Eagles blazed in front 21-5 and were sitting pretty at 46-17 by the break.

JESSICA HARRIS added 17 points and 7 steals, while NAE HARVEY popped in 12 points and made 5 steals for the Eagles.

Granite Hills: Skylar Williams 27 (9 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl), Jessica Harris 17 (1 reb, 2 ast, 7 stl, 2 blk), Nae Harvey 12 (1 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl), Keji Kubari 7 (7 reb, 2 stl), Anna Viettry 6 (2 reb, 6 ast, 7 stl), Hailey Garner 4 (3 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Kayla Kemp 3 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Madison Lumb 2 (2 reb), Kaylla Hawkins (1 reb).

Helix: No scoring or stats reported for this Grossmont Hills League game.

MOUNT MIGUEL 66, EL CAJON VALLEY 32 – The Matadors limited the Braves to two field goals in the first half of Monday’s (Jan. 30) Grossmont Valley League game as they secured a 48-14 halftime lead.

El Cajon Valley turned the ball over 35 times against the Matadors’ press before coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL pulled it off midway in the third quarter.

Freshman ZARIA BRANCH banged in a team-best 16 points to pace the Matadors (19-3, 3-0 GVL).

SHAY YOUNG added 14 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists, 6 steals and 2 blocks for Mount Miguel , which led 66-24 at the end of three quarters.

CHELSEA BALL led El Cajon Valley with 16 points including 8 of 12 free throws.

“We played probably our second most physical game of the year,” said Braves coach MARC BOYKINS. “( Mount Miguel ) is a very good man team. They hustle up and down the court – one of the best fast break teamS we have faced. Not a lot of depth but they get it done.

“We just have to bounce back and start thinking about Santana and put this behind us. My girls came out real tough in the second half, like always. I’m proud of their efforts.”

Mount Miguel: Zaria Branch 16 (1 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Shay Young 14 (7 reb, 8 ast, 2 blk, 6 stl), Kamree Harrison 12 (4 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), Deijah Blanks 12 (5 reb, 1 stl), Brooklyn Miller 4 (1 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Chantel Yell 3 (3 reb, 3 ast, 5 stl), Breahna Jones 3 (1 reb), Dejanay Pope 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Cierra Conwright (1 reb).

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 16 (10 reb, 2 stl, 2 blk), Natasha Fernandez 9 (3 reb, 2 stl), Joanna Dela Cruz 4 (2 stl), Ormani Norris-Green 2 (1 ast, 1 reb), Micia Lopez 1 (3 reb, 1 stl), Toni England (2 reb).

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (1-29-12) — Although West Hills High is eying its Grossmont Hills League showdown against Granite Hills on Wednesday (Feb. 1), the Wolf Pack is not taking anything for granted.

That’s why Wolf Pack coach RYAN KINSER scheduled perennial state power San Clemente (14-8) for a non-league encounter on Saturday (Jan. 28).

“They were a state power in the middle-to-late 2000s,” Kinser said after West Hills topped the Tritons, 54-40. “They have a lot of tradition and we knew they would give us good competition.”

EMILY COLE paced the Pack with 18 points, half coming on three-pointers.

"We played and executed much better than last night,” Kinser said. “Effort was there all night long on defense, and we played a great second and fourth quarter (outscoring the Tritons 29-13 over that stretch).

“We got the game to an 11 point lead at one point late in the second quarter, took care of the ball and executed in that quarter. But we let them back in the game in the third, committed senseless fouls and gave them free points.”

San Clemente scored 16 in the third – 12 came on free throws.

In the fourth quarter, West Hills switched to a 2-3 zone and San Clemente had no answer.

“We played much smarter and took care of the ball,” Kinser said. “Girls played a very good game, which we needed after last night’s performance.”

West Hills: Emily Cole 18, Jillian Brown 11, Bailey Albers 8, Kylie Cristini 6, Taylor Ingraham 6, Jenesis Hayes 3, Taylor Aguirre 2.

Can it be all that bad?

Believe it not, one of these teams actually won on Friday, despite the images of the Helix High coaching staff (left) or the face of panic displayed by Grossmont point guard Christina Valdez. The Highlanders took the Grossmont Valley League decision, 36-32. (Photos by Nathan Price and Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS HERE

Helix' Sarah Meredith (with ball) is defended by Grossmont forward Danielle Davis. (Photo by Nathan Price, youatplay.com) VIEW/PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

© East County Sports.com
LA MESA (1-28-12) — There was no championship at stake when these two longtime Grossmont Hills League rivals collided at Helix on Friday (Jan. 27).

However, the Highlanders (3-17, 1-3 GHL), who rode a powerful double-double of 18 points and 18 rebounds by SARAH MEREDITH to pull out a 36-32 victory over the visiting Foothillers.

Playing with an aggravating case of shin splints, Meredith managed to put the game away with a free throw with 12.9 seconds remaining.

“After I missed the first one I thought I’d better make the second one or run out of the gym,” Meredith laughed.

She made the victory-clinching free throw, which had to come as a relief for her and her teammates.

FAITH LEAUPEPETELE had 9 points, 3 assists and 3 steals for the Highlanders, while HAYLEY SINGER collected 11 rebounds.

It was a bitter defeat for Grossmont (4-15, 1-2 GHL), which was led by DANIELLE DAHLE’s 17 points, 8 rebounds and 6 blocks.

Helix led 7-6 after one quarter then embarked on a 12-0 run to lead 19-9 by halftime.

Grossmont fought back to trail only 28-24 with 5 minutes remaining in the third quarter. The Foothillers’ comeback continued as Dahle connected on a 3-pointer to pull Grossmont to within 35-32 with 1:30 remaining.

What made the defeat even more bitter for Grossmont was the sharp-shooting Dahle missed a long ranger with 16 seconds remaining that would have tied the game and sent it into overtime.

“It can’t get any closer than that,” said Grossmont coach JEFF BICKFORD. “Dahle’s shot was halfway down the basket and I thought we were going to overtime. But somehow that didn’t happen.”

Helix: Sarah Meredith 18 (18 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Faith Leaupepetele 9 (3 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Hayley Singer 4 (11 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 3 blk), Shirah Hancock 3 (8 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Fuafiva Pulu 2 (2 reb, 2 stl), Tenae Johnson (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Debbi Cardenas (2 reb, 1 stl), Domenique Jones (2 reb, 1 stl), Lisabella Lemusu (1 reb, 1 stl).

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 17 (8 reb, 1 ast, 6 blk), Megan Reddecliffe 7 (5 reb, 1 stl), Danielle Davis 4 (6 reb, 2 stl), Katarina Schweitzer 4 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Christina Valdez (1 reb, 5 stl), Carly Lopez (1 blk), Rae’Chelle Ransaw (1 reb).

WEST HILLS 50, STEELE CANYON 24 – Coming into the game Friday (Jan. 27) night it was supposed to be the toughest league challenge to date for West Hills. They entered the game against Steele Canyon unscathed in league with a 3-0 record, and 15-4 overall.

“We knew coming in this was going to be a tough test,” coach RYAN KINSER said. “I'm just very disappointed with the overall performance of our team because we're much better than that.”

Those emotions came after posting a rather easy 50-24 win over the visiting Cougars, but their leader knows the potential of the talent that he has in his squad after reaching the final four in the San Diego CIF Division II playoffs last year with virtually every player returning.

If you had just walked in at the 3 minute mark of the third quarter you would look up to see that the Wolf Pack had the game secured with ease, sporting a four touchdown advantage at 35-7, but how they got there wasn't pretty.

They only made one field goal in the first quarter and only had 16 points on the board at the half. After halftime the energy picked up and the game was all but over.

The Cougars seemed like they were straight out of the ice age through the first 3 quarters as they shot 11 percent with a collective 4-for-35 effort.

“Our defensive effort was there,” Kinser said. “But it wasn't like we played great defense, we just got lucky because they couldn't make any shots.”

Cougars point guard MONIQUE VAN entered the fourth quarter on a mission as she banged in 11 of her game-high 16 points to make the contest a little more respectable in the end, but it was obviously too little, too late.

“We've been practicing on our shots a lot in practice,” she said. “So I have no idea what happened today. They played pretty good defense, we just couldn't execute at all.”

TAYLOR INGRAHAM posted 11 rebounds and JENESIS HAYES led the Pack with 10 points.

JILLIAN BROWN also had 11 rebounds to go along with 9 points, but she needs more help from her teammates if they have any shot of making some noise come playoff time.

“We got better in the second half, but we definitely started out way too slow,” Brown said. “If we're going to make a run deep into the playoffs we need to focus on starting the game good and playing a complete game as a whole team.”

Steele Canyon: Monique Van 16 (9 reb, 1 ast. 8 stl), Ali Merlino 6 (10 reb, 2 stl, 3 blk), Jessica Thompson 2 (2 reb, 1 ast), Rachel Beasley (7 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1blk), Malicia Jordan (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Tiana Teo (2 reb), Alexis Ramos (1 stl).

West Hills: Jenesis Hayes 10 (5 reb, 1 stl), Jillian Brown 9 (11 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Kylie Cristini 9 (2 reb, 4 stl), Emily Cole 7 (2 reb, 3 stl, 1 blk), Taylor Ingraham 5 (11 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Jessica Scott 4 (6 reb, 2 ast), Bailey Albers 3 (4 reb, 2 stl), Taylor Aguirre 3 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Daniana Ghandour (5 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Arielle Bowers (1 reb).

— Andrew Smith

GRANITE HILLS 68, VALHALLA 21 – SKYLAR WILLIAMS scored 25 points to lead the Eagles past visiting Valhalla in Friday (Jan. 27) night’s Grossmont Hills League game.

Williams also had 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals for the Eagles, who improved to 21-3, 3-0 GHL).

“I thought Skylar played her best game of the season,” said Granite Hills coach JERRY PARKER. “She really got up going after rebounds tonight and getting her teammates involved with her passing. She has been playing on a bad ankle since the Las Vegas tournament. I think she's 100 percent now.”

KANDICE KALASHO led the Norsemen with 12 points, while SHYLA CRIGER-PHILIPP had 9 rebounds and ALEXIS SILVA grabbed 8 boards.

Granite Hills: Skylar Williams 25 (8 reb, 5 ast, 4 stl), Jessica Harris 17 (7 reb, 1 ast), Hailey Garner 8 (8 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl, 2 blk), Anna Viettry 6 (2 reb, 6 ast, 3 stl), Keji Kubari 2 (7 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk), Nae Harvey 2 (3 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl, 1 blk), Leena Alyashaa 2 (4 reb), Madison Lumb 2 (3 reb), Erica Phillips 2 (1 reb), Mariah Vanlandingham 2 (1 reb), Kayla Kemp (2 reb, 1 stl), Kaylla Hawkins (1 ast).

Valhalla: Kandice Kalasho 12 (3 reb, 3 stl), Alexis Silva 6 (8 reb, 1 blk), Shyla Criger-Philipp 2 (9 reb, 2 stl, 2 blk), Sarah Federico 1, Jessica May (2 reb), Hayley Swanger (1 reb).

MOUNT MIGUEL 72, SANTANA 32 – Visiting Mount Miguel marched to a 69-27 three-quarter lead Friday (Jan. 27) night and cruised to the Grossmont Valley League victory.

SHAY YOUNG scored 23 points, ZARIA BRANCH added 19 and KAMREE HARRISON pitched in 12 points as the Matadors blew out host Santana.

HAYLEY BURTON led the Sultans with 13 points.

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 23 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk), Zaria Branch 19 (6 reb, 7 ast, 3 stl, 1 blk), Kamree Harrison 12 (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Deijah Blanks 7 (7 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Breahna Jones 6 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Dejanay Pope (4 reb, 2 stl), Chantel Yell 3 (1 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl), Cierra Conwright (1 reb).

Santana: Haley Burton 13, Kayti Grable 6, Savanah Fenn 4, Ariel Rassmusson 4, Taylor Estes 3, Sydney Blackburn 2.

MONTE VISTA 43, EL CAPITAN 20 – It was not a thing of beauty on Friday (Jan. 27), but it got the job done as the visiting Monarchs (19-6, 3-0 GVL) clipped El Capitan to maintain their lead in the Grossmont Valley League.

“We played hard like we always do,” said Monte Vista’s DIONNA MERCER. “That’s important if want to keep winning.”

The Monarchs built a 24-8 lead by halftime.

“We played to the level of our opponent,” said ALEXIS WITTMANN. “But most of the time we can do better than that.”

Monte Vista stretched its advantage to 38-11 by the close of three quarters.

“We need to be more dominating than we were in this game,” said JAZMINE BRADLEY.

Monte Vista: Abigail Vargas 11 (1 reb, 6 stl), Heather Bell 6 (1 reb, 2 blk, 2 stl), Dionna Mercer 5 (4 reb, 4 stl, 3 ast), Jazmine Bradley 4 (2 reb, 1 stl, 2 ast), Felicia Porter 4 (7 reb, 1 blk, 2 stl), Monica Williams 4 (9 reb, 2 stl), Kayla Harrell 4 (6 reb), Stefanie Banks 4 (6 reb), Monique Williams 1 (3 reb, 2 stl), Alexis Wittmann (4 reb).

El Capitan: DeAnna Reed 8 (2 reb, 1 stl, 1 ast), Katie Davidson 4 (11 reb, 4 stl, 2 blk), Kira Lopez 3 (12 reb), Cierra Cutler 3 (5 reb, 1 stl), Kim Galvan 2 (4 reb, 2 stl), Bekah Leonard (3 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Meg Lima (1 reb).

CHRISTIAN 36, MADISON 10 – The Lady Patriots had balanced scoring led by CHAYAN LOWERY with 10 points to take Friday's (Jan.27) Central League game.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (1-26-12) — Points were at a premium when host Christian edged Central League rival Point Loma, 29-24, in Wednesday’s (Jan. 25) action at the Ryan Athletic Center.

CHAYAN LOWERY led the Patriots (8-12, 4-2 CTL) with 14 points, 7 rebounds and 5 blocks.

The Patriots led 26-11 after three quarters and never looked back. They complete the first round of league play alone in third place.

Christian: Chayan Lowery 14 (7 reb, 5 blk), Amelia Johnson 7, Audrey Taylor 5 (1 reb), Jillian Sexton 2 (6 reb, 2 stl, 2 blk), Alesia Lowery 1, Hayley Cruz (4 reb), Anaya Tobiason (2 reb, 1 stl).

© East County Sports.com
RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA (1-22-12) — After falling behind by 15 points in the first quarter, the Mount Miguel Matadors rebounded to edge Fullerton-Rosary, 61-57, in the San Diego Orange County Challenge at Rancho Santa Margarita High.

“We were really sloppy with the ball in the first quarter,” said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL.

Things changed rapidly in the second quarter as the Matadors gained a 19-9 scoring edge to close the deficit to three points.

“We started to show some fight in that quarter, did a better job of taking care of the ball and got some easy baskets,” Sandoval said.

Mount Miguel continued its surge in the second half but could never find a comfort zone.

ZARIA BRANCH led the Matadors with 22 points, including a trio of triples.

“That’s the Zaria Branch that I expected to see this season,” Sandoval said. “She had a breakout game against a quality team.”

Senior SHAY YOUNG executed a quiet double-double of 12 points and 10 rebounds while handing out 7 assists.

“Shay is willing to do whatever it takes for us to win,” Sandoval said. “In this game it was to distribute the ball.”

Mount Miguel (14-5) received additional offense from unusual sources as BREAHNA JONES and BROOKLYN MILLER contributed 9 points apiece.

“We’re going to get a lot of confidence from winning a game like this,” Sandoval stated. “Rosary is one of the toughest teams on our schedule.”

Orange County captured the best-of-5 series, 3-2, by taking the final three ballgames.

Mount Miguel: Zaria Branch 22 (5 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Shay Young 12 (10 reb, 7 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Brooklyn Miller 9 (1 reb, 1 blk), Breahna Jones 9 (2 reb), Deijah Blanks 6 (2 reb, 2 blk), Chantel Yell 2 (3 reb, 7 ast, 2 stl), Kamree Harrison 1 (1 reb, 1 ast), Dejanay Pope (1 reb).

Mount Miguel senior Shay Young has been nominated for the McDonald's All-American game. (File photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com)

Young on McDonald's watch list © East County Sports.com EL CAJON (1-20-12) — Mount Miguel High senior SHAY YOUNG is among five local high school girls basketball players nominated for this year’s McDonald’s All-American Games. The 6-foot Young, who has a scholarship to New Mexico State in hand, is averaging 22.5 points and 9.5 rebounds per game. She’s also East County’s top free throw shooter, having converted 83 of 103 (.806 percent). More than 600 boys and girls were nominated nationwide by coaches, athletic directors, principals and the game’s selection committee. No local boys were nominated. The final roster of 24 girls and 24 boys will be announced Feb. 9. The McDonald’s All-American Games are scheduled for March 28 in Chicago.

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (1-21-12) — It's been a flawless 2012 for the Granite Hills girls basketball team so far.

The Eagles are undefeated in Grossmont Hills League play at 4-0 in the new calendar year, and after defeating Steele Canyon, 67-35, Friday (Jan. 20) night they hold a 20-3 record on the season, yet they still haven't cracked the Top 10 in rankings.

“The team I saw tonight I think they definitely deserve to be ranked up there with the best in the county because they are well coached and just execute things so precisely,” Cougars first year coach DALE PARKER said.

It started out sluggish for the Eagles as they held a 17-15 lead in the second quarter with 2:57 to play.

Senior JESSICA HARRIS then hit HAILEY GARNER for a wide-open triple.

SKYLAR WILLIAMS dove for a steal and hit Harris for an easy layup and Harris found Garner for two more long range buckets and 52 seconds later the lead had grown to 12 points at the half, and they never looked back.

“When that run happened it really woke us up and got us pumped,” Harris said. “Especially to see Skylar diving for that steal on the in bounds and kicking it to me for the easy layin, it got us all going.”

Garner swears she's not superstitious but credited her hot shooting to the fact that she decided to wear her hair in a ponytail instead of a bun.

“My mom and I were talking about it earlier today and I told her I also wasn't going to do well if she didn't wear her No. 2 shirt (Garner’s uniform number).”

She finished the game as one of three Eagles starters in double figures, posting 17 points on 6-of-11 shooting that included 5-of -9 from downtown. Harris led all scorers with 18 point while Williams finished with 12.

“That's the kind of team we are,” head coach JERRY PARKER said. “We press, play up-tempo and shoot a lot of 3's. Eventually we start to click, get a few turnovers and after a couple layups and long shots these girls can blow any game wide open and that's what you saw here tonight.”

Granite Hills: Jessica Harris 18 (7 reb, 9 ast, 5 stl), Hailey Garner 17 (4 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Skylar Williams 12 (7 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Anna Viettry 8 (5 reb, 6 ast, 4 stl), Leena Alyashaa 5 (2 reb, 1 stl), Keji Kubari 3 (6 reb, 1 stl, 2 blk), Kayla Kemp 2 (6 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Nae Harvey 2, Kaylla Hawkins (2 reb), Madison Lumb (1 reb)

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

— Andrew Smith

Valhalla High guard Hayley Swanger (left) drives to the hoop, defended by Grossmont's Danielle Dahle. (Photo by Don DeMars)

“It was nice to get the win, but we very easily could have lost tonight,” said Foothillers coach JEFF BICKFORD.

"Davis will continue to get shots with Dahle getting double-teamed,” said Bickford.

“I was very proud of MEGAN REDDECLIFF filling in for BRIA MILLER (strep throat) and hitting a big free throw for us,” Bickford noted.

“We were neck-and-neck with them,” said Norsemen coach AL SILVA. “We had a lot of good looks at the basket but couldn’t get the ball to go in consistently.”

“HAYLEY SWANGER did a great defensive job on Dahle. She held her to 3 field goals for three quarters. Then we had to foul in the fourth quarter and Dahle made 5 free throws.”

KANDICE KALASHO, who has been missing from the lineup due to a death in her family, was welcomed back as she tallied 15 points and 5 rebounds.

SHYLA CRIGER-PHILIPP contributed 9 points, as did ALEXIS SILVA, who also pulled down 9 rebounds.

Grossmont: Danielle Davis 14 (14 reb, 1 stl), Danielle Dahle 12 (7 reb, 4 blk, 2 stl), Katarina Schweitzer 4 (2 reb), Rae’Chelle Ransaw 4 (2 reb), Carly Lopez 2 (7 reb, 2 blk, 4 ast), Larissa Foggiano 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Megan Reddecliff 1 (6 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl, 1 blk), Christina Valdez (3 reb, 1 stl).

Valhalla: Kandice Kalasho 15 (5 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 2 stl), Shyla Criger-Philipp 9 (5 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Alexis Silva 9 (9 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Hayley Swanger 4 (1 ast, 2 stl), Jessica May (2 reb, 1 stl), Sarah Federico (1 reb).

WEST HILLS 60, HELIX 15 – In the eyes of the West Hills Wolf Pack, winners of the last four league championships, this was an endurance test. There was no doubt who was going to win Friday’s (Jan. 20) Grossmont Hills League contest from the outset.

The Wolf Pack led 33-8 by halftime and it just got worse from there.

“We started off slowly on the offensive end,” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “Helix did a good job taking the inside away and we didn’t hit many from the outside. We didn’t convert when we did get good looks inside. We made four 3’s and only one 2-point basket in the first quarter.”

KYLIE CRISTINI paced a balanced West Hills attack with 10 points, including a pair of treys.

“Helix did a very good job taking away JILLIAN BROWN all night long, forced us to do some other things, make some shots from the outside and attack the zone with our guards,” said Kinser. “At half time we made some adjustments to attack their defense, and our girls did a nice job responding and scored 20 in the 3rd.”

“Defensively we played well for the most part, pressured well but committed too many unnecessary fouls on jump shots,” Kinser said. “We have a tough stretch of games starting next Friday so this week’s practice will be very important. We need to get better in some key areas.”

It was another long night for Helix, which converted only 3 of 38 shots from the field.

The majority of the Highlanders’ points went to FAITH LEAUPEPETELE, who finished with 8. She also had 9 rebounds.

HAYLEY SINGER had 4 blocked shots for the Highlanders (2-17, 0-2 GHL).

West Hills: Kylie Cristini 10, Jenesis Hayes 9, Taylor Ingraham 9, Arielle Bowers 8, Emily Cole 6, Taylor Aguirre 4, Bailey Albers 3, Daniana Ghandour 3, Jessica Scott 2, Jillian Brown 2.

Helix: Faith Leaupepetele 8 (9 reb, 1 stl), Lisabella Lemusu 5 (6 reb, 1 stl), Dominique Jones 2 (2 reb, 1 stl), Hayley Singer (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 4 blk), Debbi Cardenas (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Shirah Hancock (3 reb, 1 stl), Fuafive Pulu (3 reb, 1 stl), Ashley Smith (1 reb, 1 stl), Rubine D’Jemba (2 reb).

MONTE VISTA 50, EL CAJON VALLEY 40 – DIONNA MERCER scored 13 points, ABIGAIL VARGAS and FELICIA PORTER punched in 11 apiece as the Monarachs captured Friday’s (Jan. 20) Grossmont Valley League contest in Spring Valley.

“(Braves coach) MARC BOYKINS has done a great job at El Cajon Valley. All his girls came to play tonight,” said Monarchs coach MICHAEL SKIBBE.

“We attacked the ball well on defense in the second half and shot really well in the second half,” Skibbe added.

Not surprisingly the Braves’ leader was CHELSEA BALL with 21 points and 25 rebounds.

“We played very well,” said Boykins. “We came out to play but an injury to MICIA LOPEZ and foul trouble hurt us, but the others girls stepped up. I am not upset about this loss because my girls believed in their talent and their ability to play fundamental basketball.”

Monte Vista: Dionna Mercer 13 (4 reb, 5 stl, 4 ast), Abigail Vargas 11 (5 reb, 7 stl, 4 ast), Felicia Porter 11 (4 reb, 2 stl, 1 ast), Stefanie Banks 4 (2 reb, 4 stl), Jazmine Bradley 4 (2 reb, 2 stl), Heather Bell 3 (1 blk, 1 ast), Kayla Harrell 2 (1 reb, 1 stl, 1 ast), Monica Williams 2 (4 reb, 1 stl).

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 21 (25 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Natasha Fernandez 9 (6 reb, 1 ast, 4 stl), Micia Lopez 3 (5 reb, 5 stl), Miranda Mullens 2 (3 reb, 1 stl), Joanna DelaCruz 3 (3 reb, 1 stl), Toni England 2 (3 reb, 1 stl),

CHRISTIAN 53, CLAIREMONT 23 – CHAYAN LOWERY led Christian with 20 points and 13 rebounds in Friday (Jan. 20) night’s Central League contest at Clairemont.

JILLIAN SEXTON pitched in 11 points as the Patriots defeated the Chieftains to improve their record to 7-12, 3-2 CL).

“ALESIA (LOWERY) ran the point for me today, which took a lot of pressure off us,” said Patriots coach THOMAS LOWERY. “Chayan came from the outside in and she had some shots. Some of our bench players came in and did a real good job on layups.”

“We got a lot of buckets off their press. Jillian Sexton stepped up tonight for us,” coach Lowery noted. “She had some good shots. We threw a couple of different defenses at them and it worked well.”

Christian: Chayan Lowery 20 (13 reb, 6 blk, 1 stl), Jillian Sexton 11 (6 reb, 2 ast, 4 blk, 1 stl), Amelia Johnson 9 (2 reb, 2 stl), Alesia Lowery 7, Anaya Tobiason 4 (1 ast, 2 stl), Hayley Cruz 2 (1 ast, 1 stl).

MOUNT MIGUEL 59, EL CAPITAN 12 – SHAY YOUNG scored 23 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to help lead Mount Miguel (13-5, 1-0 GVL) to Friday’s (Jan. 20) Grossmont Valley League victory against hapless El Capitan.

The victory extended Mount Miguel’s 12-year league record to 102-1.

This was all about defense as the Matadors held the Vaqueros (1-18, 0-2 GVL) to 5 points through the first three periods.

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 23 (9 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Deijah Blanks 8 (7 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Zaria Branch 7 (1 reb, 4 ast, 5 stl), Kamree Harrison 6 (1 reb, 1 stl), Chantel Yell 5 (6 reb, 6 ast, 6 stl), Dejanay Pope 5 (5 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Brooklyn Miller 5 (5 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk, 1 stl).

El Capitan: No stats or scoring reported.

Valhalla High ball-handler Hayley Swanger (left) gets covered by Dionna Mercer of Monte Vista. (Photo by Ruth Mims) VIEW ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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EL CAJON (1-18-12) — There wasn’t much doubt who was going to win Tuesday’s (Jan. 17) Grossmont Conference crossover game, but the Monarchs were using the game as a stepping-stone in preparation for Friday’s (Jan. 20) league game against El Cajon Valley.

Most would argue that the Monarchs don’t need much preparation to beat the Braves, but of course Monte Vista coach MICHAEL SKIBBE would beg to differ.

In the meantime Monte Vista marched to a 17-4 first quarter lead over the Norsemen, and led 26-12 by intermission.

Monte Vista sophomore HEATHER BELL came off the bench to land four 3-pointers to help spark the Monarchs to a 56-15 victory.

“We put in some new sets and had a chance to work on them tonight,” said Skibbe. “A lot of players stepped up and played well tonight. I like what we are doing and where we are going.”

Not to be overlooked was the work of FELICIA PORTER, who pitched in 12 points and bagged 6 boards for the Monarchs (17-6).

“Felicia played well in the post, and Heather was 4-for-7 on 3s,” said Skibbe.

Valhalla’s SHYLA CRIGER-PHILIPP led the Norsemen in rebounds with 10 and 2 blocks.

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

Valhalla: Alexis Silva 7 (5 reb, 1 ast), Shyla Criger-Philipp 6 (10 reb, 2 blk, 2 stl), Sarah Federico 2 (3 reb, 3 stl), Jessica May (2 reb, 1 blk), Melanie Jirjis (3 reb), Hayley Swanger (1 reb, 1 stl).

WEST HILLS 62, EL CAJON VALLEY 26 – At West Hills it’s all about scoring and lockdown defense.

Case in point was Tuesday’s (Jan. 17) Grossmont Conference crossover contest where the Wolf Pack outscored El Cajon Valley in all four quarters.

TAYLOR INGRAHAM led the way for the Pack with 14 points, while KYLIE CRISTINI had 11, EMILY COLE pitched in 10 and JILLIAN BROWN contributed 10.

West Hills has outscored its last three opponents by a score of 62 points.

“We got off to a great start, executed on offense and played pretty solid defense in the first quarter,” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “Defensively we played well all night, not letting them score in double digits in any one quarter.

“We took care of the ball tonight, only had 10 turnovers. We have good shooters and solid post, so when we don’t waste possessions with careless turnovers we can score pretty well.”

“Once again all 10 played and played a lot,” Kinser added. “Having four in double digits was nice. Cristini played a solid game, 11 points with no turnovers.”

CHELSEA BALL led El Cajon Valley with 13 points and 13 rebounds, while MICIA LOPEZ added 10 points.

“El Cajon is very competitive,” commented Kinser. “Chelsea Ball is a very good player. We game planned to stop her and she still had 13. Coach (MARC) BOYKINS has done a nice job with his team.”

West Hills: Taylor Ingraham 14, Kylie Cristini 11, Emily Cole 10, Jillian Brown 10, Arielle Bowers 6, Bailey Albers 5, Daniana Ghandour 3, Jenesis Hayes 1.

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 13 (13 reb, 2 stl, 2 ast), Micia Lopez 10 (3 reb, 2 ast), Natasha Fernandez 3 (5 reb, 1 stl, 1 ast), Miranda Mullens (2 reb, 2 stl), Ormani Norris-Green (2 reb).

GRANITE HILLS 71, EL CAPITAN 15 – Host Granite Hills bolted to a 34-4 first quarter lead and led 45-9 by intermission against the visiting Vaqueros in Tuesday’s (Jan. 17) Grossmont Conference crossover meeting.

JESSICA HARRIS led the Eagles with 24 points, including four treys, while SKYLAR WILLIAMS pitched in 17 markers and 5 assists, the same as Harris.

ANNA VIETTRY paced the Eagles’ passing brigade, dishing 8 scoring passes and KEJI KUBARI grabbed 8 rebounds.

“We need to improve at the free throw line for us to be able to play at a high level,” said Eagles coach JERRY PARKER.

Granite Hills: Jessica Harris 24 (5 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), Skylar Williams 17 (4 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl), Anna Viettry 9 (3 reb, 8 ast, 2 stl), Nae Harvey 8 (3 reb, 2 stl), Keji Kubari 3 (8 reb, 2 stl), Kayla Kemp 3 (1 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Hailey Garner 3 (3 reb), Mariah Vanlandingham 2 (3 reb, 1 blk), Leena Alyashaa 1 (2 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Madison Lumb 1 (3 reb), Kaylla Hawkins (1 reb).

El Capitan: No scoring or stats reported.

SANTANA 41, HELIX 37 – The Sultans edged Helix in Tuesday’s (Jan. 17) Grossmont Conference crossover action.

Santana’s SYDNEY BLACKBURN, who paced the Sultans (8-11) with 16 points, sank both ends of a 1-and-1 with 3 seconds remaining to seal the victory.

KAYTI GRABLE punched in 14 points to go with 17 rebounds, while HALEY BURTON hauled down 16 boards.

Santana: Sydney Blackburn 16 (4 reb, 4 ast, 3 stl), Kayti Grable 14 (17 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk), Haley Burton 5 (16 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Ariel Rassmussen 4 (1 reb), Savanah Fenn 2, Emily Kloss (6 reb, 6 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Taylor Estes (1 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk), Savannah Garcia (1 reb).

Helix: No stats or scoring reported.

CHRISTIAN 53, CRAWFORD 17 – No report received for this Tuesday (Jan. 17) Central League game from Ryan Athletic Center in eastern El Cajon.

© East County Sports.com
LAS VEGAS (1-17-12) — Mount Miguel coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL was all smiles when his Matadors gained a split in the Las Vegas MLK Invitational after mauling Moapa Valley (Overton, Nev.), 67-32, in Monday’s (Jan. 16) final day of the tournament.

SHAY YOUNG led a balanced attack for Mount Miguel (12-5) against Moapa Valley, pouring in 19 points. DEIJAH BLANKS added 13 points and 5 assists for the Matadors, who led 18-3 after one period and 36-11 by intermission.

“We are getting ready for (the Grossmont Valley ) League,” Sandoval said. “We got off to a good start against Moapa and got the game played to our liking. We got all of our players significant playing time today. It made the trip worthwhile for everybody.”

Mount Miguel returns home ranked 10th among CIF-San Diego Section schools in the latest San Diego Union-Tribune rankings.

Moapa Valley is located next to Valley of Fire State Park, about an hour northeast of Las Vegas off I-15.

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 19 (3 reb, 4 ast, 1 blk, 3 stl), Deijah Blanks 13 (3 reb, 5 ast, 1 stl), Chantel Yell 10 (2 reb, 1 ast, 6 stl, Zaria Branch 10 (4 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl), Kamree Harrison 8 (2 reb, 3 ast), Brooklyn Miller 5 (3 reb, 1 stl), Dejanay Pope 2 (14 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Cierra Conwright (2 reb).

Christian High's Amelia Johnson gets fouled on the wrist during her layin attempt against Kearny. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com) VIEW or PURCHASE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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LAS VEGAS (1-15-12) — The visiting Mount Miguel Matadors found out why Bishop Gorman of Las Vegas is ranked the No. 2 girls basketball team in Nevada during a non-league game on Saturday (Jan. 14).

The Matadors (11-5) trailed only 34-25 by intermission but ran out of gas in the second half to finish the contest on the short end of a 69-47 score.

Senior SHAY YOUNG paced the Matadors with 22 points and 9 rebounds, while CHANTEL YELL contributed 11 points.

“We were with them in the first half but then they really put it to us in the second half,” said Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL.

Mount Miguel will conclude its trip to Nevada by facing Moapa Valley (Overton, Nev.) at 11 a.m.

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 22 (9 reb, 3 stl), Chantel Yell 11 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl),

Kamree Harrison 4 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Deijah Blanks 4 (1 reb, 2 stl), Dejanay Pope 4 (2 reb), Zaria Branch 2 (5 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl).

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (1-14-12) — There are not going to be many challengers to deny Granite Hills a Grossmont Hills League championship this year.

The veteran Eagles (18-3) put the Foothillers on their heels in the first quarter with a 21-9 burst in Friday’s (Jan. 13) league opener on their way to a 65-34 victory.

“Granite Hills is loaded with talent this year and was a tough matchup for us tonight,” said Grossmont coach JEFF BICKFORD. “We competed well in the first half, only down 12. They pressed us until the final minute and we usually handle pressure well, but not tonight.”

JESSICA HARRIS had 21 points for Granite Hills, ANNA VIETTRY popped in 15 along with 9 assists, and HAILEY GARNER contributed 14 in the victory.

DANIELLE DAHLE scored 20 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for the Foothillers (3-14).

“Dahle is getting double- and triple-teamed, and we need to make sure our guards are helping her more,” Bickford added. “All season Dahle has been the best player on the floor bar none; she is a great competitor. We just have not had consistent scoring from the rest of our team.”

The Eagles offered similar words for their top players.

“Jessica had a great game on both ends,” said Eagles coach JERRY PARKER. “I gave her the task of guarding Dahle. We tried to limit her touches by doubling her on the inbounds. Dahle still found away to get her points. I thought in the second half the pressure started to get to them."

“Hailey has really started to contribute on offense this year,” he added. “Which gives us another weapon when teams start to take away Jessica and Skylar."

Granite Hills: Jessica Harris 21 (2 reb, 3 ast, 5 stl), Anna Viettry 15 (3 reb, 9 ast, 2 stl), Hailey Garner 14 (1 ast, 1 stl), Skylar Williams 9 (6 reb, 4 ast, 4 stl), Kyla Kemp 6 (6 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Nae Harvey (1 reb, 2 stl), Keji Kubari (1 stl), Erica Phillips (1 reb), Kaylla Hawkins (1 reb).

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 20 (10 reb, 3 blk, 3 stl), Carly Lopez 5 (6 reb, 4 stl), Danielle Davis 5 (5 reb), Bria Miller 2 (4 reb), Katarina Schweitzer 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Larissa Foggiano (2 reb, 1 stl), Rae’Chelle Ransaw (2 reb).

STEELE CANYON 43, HELIX 37 – Helix raced to an 8-5 first quarter lead in Friday’s (Jan. 13) Grossmont Hills League opener that caught the Cougars off guard. Steele Canyon settled in by the second quarter, outscoring the Highlanders 18-6, to take a 23-14 lead into half time.

Helix outscored the Cougars by one point in the third quarter and by two points in the fourth quarter, but the comeback attempt fell short, as the Cougars were able to hold off the Highlanders for a 6-point victory.

Steele Canyon was led by MONIQUE VAN, who tied her career high tonight scoring 20 points. However, the biggest highlight was Van getting 14 steals, setting a school record for steals in one game.

ALI MERLINO scored 13 points and had 6 rebounds for the Cougars..

FAITH LEAUPEPETELE led the Highlanders with 19 points, SARAH MEREDITH contributed 10 points and 14 rebounds, and HAYLEY SINGER grabbed 10 rebounds and blocked 6 shot attempts.

Steele Canyon: Monique Van 20 (6 reb, 14 stl, 6 ast), Ali Merlino 13 (6 reb, 1 blk, 2 stl, 1 ast), Rachel Beasley 5 (2 reb, 5 stl, 1 ast), Jessica Thompson 3 (1 reb, 1 stl), Alexis Ramos 2 (5 reb, 2 stl), Malicia Jordan (2 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Tina Teo (1 reb, 2 stl, 1 ast).

Helix: Faith Leaupepetele 19 (13 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl (2 blk), Sarah Meredith 10 (14 reb, 1 stl), Hayley Singer 4 (10 reb, 2 stl, 6 blk), Fuafiva Pulu 2 (3 reb, 1 stl), Shirah Hancock 2 (1 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Dominique Jones (2 reb, 1 stl), Debbi Cardenas (1 reb), Lisabella Lemusu (1 reb), Rubine D’Jemba (4 reb), Ashley Smith (1 reb).

MONTE VISTA 54, SANTANA 38 – The Monarchs used a balanced attack led by ABIGAIL VARGAS’s 14 points and DIONNA MERCER’s 12 as they won their Grossmont Valley League opener in Spring Valley on Friday (Jan. 13).

“We are always trying to develop our players,” said Monte Vista coach MICHAEL SKIBBE. “We were up 40-13 at the half. In the second half we took off our press, ran all our sets and we made sure all our girls got playing time. We have a truly blessed situation. I’m excited for all our players.”

Santana (7-11) shot 41 percent from the floor but that included only 14 field goals as HALEY BURTON led the way with 11 points and 10 rebounds.

KAYTI GRABLE added 10 points and 4 boards for the Sultans.

“We played four tough games in six days,” said Santana coach MARK TIPTON. “We are really beat up. Coach Skibbe showed a lot of class tonight. They were on for every phase of the game. The score of the game does not reflect the type of game it was.”

Monte Vista: Abigail Vargas 14 (4 reb, 6 stl, 2 ast), Dionna Mercer 12 (4 reb, 1 blk, 3 stl, 2 ast), Jazmine Bradley 7 (3 reb, 2 stl), Felicia Porter 6 (7 reb, 1 blk, 3 stl, 1 ast), Monique Williams 5 (1 reb), Stefanie Banks 4 (2 reb, 1 stl), Kayla Harrell 4 (2 reb, 2 stl), Monica Williams 2 (7 reb), Heather Bell (1 reb, 3 blk).

Santana: Haley Burton 11 (10 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 3 blk), Kayti Grable 10 (4 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Taylor Estes 5 (2 stl, 1 blk), Veronica Martinez 4 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Kylie Brees 4 (4 reb, 1 stl), Becca Ramirez 2 (2 reb, 1 ast), Bridget Fries 1 (2 reb), Savanah Fenn 1 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Emily Kloss (3 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Sydney Blackburn (2 stl, 2 blk, 2 ast), Savannah Garcia (3 reb, 1 stl).

EL CAJON VALLEY 54, EL CAPITAN 31 – CHELSEA BALL scored 21 points and grabbed 13 rebounds in El Cajon Valley ’s Grossmont Valley League romp over El Capitan.

“This was a real good week for us,” said El Cajon Valley coach MARC BOYKINS. “The girls really played well. We are really improving every time out. Tonight we came out and played hard right from the start. We showed good ball movement on offense and on defense we were very aggressive.”

Boykins pointed out that Fernandez has scored 39 points in the last three games. She scored 13 points in tonight’s contest.

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 21 (13 reb, 4 stl), Natasha Fernandez 13 (1 ast, 4 reb, 2 stl), Micia Lopez 11 (8 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Miranda Mullens 3 (3 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Joanna Dela Cruz 2 (1 reb, 2 stl), Ormani Norris-Green 2 (2 reb, 5 stl), Alescia Dean 2 (2 reb), Toni England (1 reb, 1 stl).

El Capitan: (No scoring or stats reported).

KEARNY 65, CHRISTIAN 25 – CHAYAN LOWERY narrowly missed a triple-double with 15 points, 13 rebounds and 9 blocks in Friday’s (Jan. 13) Central League loss to visiting Kearny.

Christian: Chayan Lowery 15 (13 reb, 9 blk), Alesia Lowery 6 (3 reb, Amelia Johnson 2 (1 ast), Jillian Sexton 1 (3 reb), Anaya Tobiason 1 (2 reb),Hayley Cruz (3 reb).

By Nick Pellegrino
© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (1-12-12) — Following three quarters of even basketball, El Cajon Valley High went to its strength in the fourth quarter, feeding the ball inside to MICIA LOPEZ and CHELSEA BALL. The Braves' front-liners tallied 19 points each, pulling away for a 59-50 decision over visiting Valhalla in Wednesday's (Jan. 11) Grossmont Conference Tournament contest.

Trailing by six points through three periods, the teams changed baskets to open the fourth quarter before the Braves erupted for 15 straight points by vacating the outside shot and pushing the ball into the paint for an array of successful close-range shots.

"We showed our patience," said Lopez, a junior forward who fueled the defense with 18 rebounds and took a charge to forge a turnover. "We were rushing our shots, but coach calmed us down and just told us not to give up."

The 15-0 run by the Braves (8-7) started when Valhalla center SHYLA CRIGER-PHILIPP was saddled with her fourth foul seconds into the fourth quarter. Criger-Phillipp lasted until there was 3:20 remaining, but as she fouled out, Lopez sank a pair of tie-breaking foul shots for a 49-47 advantage.

The Norsemen (2-14), without their starting center on the court, attempted to speed up the final minutes with a press, but ECVHS beat the pressure via layins by JOANNA Dela CRUZ, NATASHA FERNANDEZ and Ball (on an assist from Lopez) to put away the victory.

"We're working hard and want teams to respect us," added Lopez, who hopes to attend Baylor University because, "it's my aspiration to go there and it's a Christian school."

Valhalla, down 27-23 in the second quarter, saw ALEXIS SILVA hit a 3-point shot to start a 9-0 run, as the Norsemen grabbed a 32-29 halftime lead. However, the offense struggled in the second half when the taller Braves crashed the boards to the tune of a final cushion of 51-33 on the boards.

Criger-Philipp paced Valhalla with 19 points and 8 boards, while KANDICE KALASHO added 18 points.

Valhalla: Shyla Criger-Philipp 19 (8 reb, 2 blk, 1 stl), Kandice Kalasho 18 (4 reb, 4 stl, 2 ast), Alexis Silva 7 (7 reb, 5 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Haley Swanger 3 (4 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Jessica May 2 (2 reb), Melanie Jurjis 2 (1 ast), Sarah Federico 0 (2 reb).

El Cajon Valley: Micia Lopez 19 (18 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk, 1 charge), Chelsea Ball 19 (16 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Natasha Fernandez 7 (6 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Miranda Mullens 6 (2 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Ormani Norris-Green 4 (5 reb, 1 blk), Toni England 2 (1 reb), Joanna Dela Cruz 2 (4 ast, 2 stl), Alescia Dean (1 reb).

MONTE VISTA 51, STEELE CANYON 45 – Monte Vista raced out to a 13-8 first quarter lead and extended the lead in the second quarter with a 19-9 run to lead at the half 32-17 of Wednesday’s (Jan. 11) Grossmont Conference crossover play.

Steele Canyon started a comeback in the third quarter to pull within 10 points by the end of the quarter, and narrowed the lead down to 2 points before

Monte Vista surged ahead to take a 4 point lead late in the fourth quarter.

“We doubled them up early,” said Monte Vista coach MICHAEL SKIBBE. “We didn’t play very strong in the second half but we held on to win. They played us and did a good job.”

FELICIA PORTER led the Monarchs with 16 points and 9 rebounds, while DIONNA MERCER punched in 11 points and 6 rebounds.

“We have a tough time bullying teams,” said Skibbe. “We tend to play to the level of the teams we play. We jumped out on them, were ahead then our intensity dropped a little bit.”

MONIQUE VAN led the Cougars in scoring with 16 points. She also added 8 rebounds, 8 assists and 7 steals, while ALI MERLINO added 15 points and 11 rebounds for a double-double. She also added 7 steals to her totals.

ALEXIS RAMOS continues to show improved play, as she chipped in 8 points, 7 rebounds and two steals.

Monte Vista: Felicia Porter 16 (9 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Dionna Mercer 11 (6 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl), Abigail Vargas 8 (5 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl), Stefanie Banks 6 (9 reb, 1 stl), Jazmine Bradley 4 (3 reb, 3 stl), Heather Bell 3 (1 stl), Monica Williams 2 (6 reb, 1 blk), Monique Williams 1 (1 reb).

Steele Canyon: Monique Van 16 (8 reb, 8 ast, 7 stl, 1 blk), Ali Merlino 15 (11 reb, 6 blk, 7 stl, 2 ast), Alexis Ramos 8 (7 reb, 2 stl), Rachel Beasley 4 (2 reb, 2 stl), Malicia Jordan 2 (3 reb, 1stl), Tiana Teo (1 reb, 2 stl), Jessica Thompson (1 stl).

GROSSMONT 55, EL CAPITAN 38 – DANIELLE DAHLE scored a double-double of 23 points and 12 rebounds, while DANIELLE DAVIS pitched in 11 points and 16 rebounds to lead Grossmont to a no-doubter victory over host El
Capitan in Wedneday’s (Jan. 11) Grossmont Conference crossover action.

“We came out ready to play after a very intense practice yesterday,” said Foothillers coach JEFF BICKFORD. “Having coached at El Capitan the last two years, I had a pretty good insight on their players. Our pressure defense caused a lot of problems for El Cap getting the ball up the court early in the game. It was nice to see more than Dahle putting the ball in the basket – in fact she fouled out in the 3rd quarter. Our sophomore guard J-LO (CARLY LOPEZ) had to take over at point and did pretty well.”

“Danielle Davis has been dealing with an injury and stepped up big time tonight. When she plays strong we have much more balance on the offensive end. We committed far too many fouls tonight: 28 versus El Capitan 's 12, sending the Vaqueros to the line 26 times.”

El Capitan was paced by VANESSA SIERRA’s 12 points, while DEANNA REED chipped in 10.

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 23 (12 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk), Danielle Davis 11 (16 reb, 2 stl), Carly Lopez 11 (5 stl, 3 reb, 1 blk), Bria Miller 4 (5 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Rae’Chelle Ransaw 4 (2 reb, 2 stl), Katarina Schweitzer 2 (2 stl), Larissa Foggiano (1 stl).

El Capitan: Vanessa Sierra 12, Deanna Reed 10, Kim Galvan 6, Becka Leonard 5, Sierra Cutler 5.

GRANITE HILLS 73, SANTANA 27 – Arguably the best team in East County, Granite Hills slaughtered Santana in Wednesday’s (Jan. 11) Grossmont Conference crossover game.

Four players scored in double figures for the Eagles (17-3). Granite Hills outscored Santana across the board as SKYLAR WILLIAMS led the way with 18 points, 15 rebounds and 6 steals.

“Skylar did a good job filling in for KEJI (KUBARI) in the post,” said Granite Hills coach JERRY PARKER. “I was disappointed that we didn't do a better job rebounding on the defensive end. That's one area that we need to improve before we get into league play (which begins on Friday (Jan. 13).”

JESSICA HARRIS pitched in 15 points, 5 assists, 4 steals and 4 rebounds for the Eagles who led 37-14 by halftime.

ANNA VIETTRY contributed 13 points, 8 assists and 6 rebounds in the victory, while HAILEY GARNER chipped in with 10 points.

Granite Hills: Skylar Williams 18 (15 reb, 3 ast, 6 stl), Jessica Harris 15 (4 reb, 5 ast, 4 stl, 1 blk), Anna Viettry 13 (6 reb, 8 ast, 3 stl), Hailey Garner 10 (1 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Kayla Kemp 7 (1 reb, 3 stl), Erica Phillip 6, Leena Alyashaa 4 (1 reb, 1 ast, 5 stl), Nae Harvey (2 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl), Kaylla Hawkins (1 reb).

Santana: (No scoring or stats reported.)

Grossmont senior Danielle Dahle posted a double-double (13 points, 11 rebounds) in Monday's 34-28 setback to Santana. (Photo by Frank Price, youatplay.com)

© East County Sports.com
CLAIREMONT (1-11-12) — It could be considered an upset when Horizon (6-9) knocked off Mount Miguel,
72-64, in an overtime non-league game on Tuesday (Jan. 10).

Make no mistake about it, Matadors coach ROBBIE SANDOVAL was silently seething with the result even though his team outscored the host Panthers 38-22 in the second half.

The problem was the Matadors (11-4) wilted in the 4 minute overtime where the Panthers gained an 11-3 scoring edge.

“It was an uphill struggle for us all night,” Sandoval said. “The first half was probably the most disappointing from an effort standpoint that we’ve had in a long time. My team needs to understand that because we wear the Mount Miguel uniform you’re going to get everybody’s best effort every game.”

Mount Miguel was down 39-23 at the half and fell behind 22 points in the third quarter.

With 4 seconds left in regulation Mount Miguel trailed 59-58. The Matadors fouled Horizon and the Panthers made both free throws.

A long inbounds pass went to SHAY YOUNG, who passed it to ZARIA BRANCH, who in turn hit a 3 at the buzzer, sending the game into overtime.

Horizon scored the first eight points in overtime and after that it was game-set-match.

“We spent so much energy to catch up that we just ran out of gas in overtime,” Sandoval said.

Mount Miguel: Shay Young 28 (6 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Kamree Harrison 12 (4 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl), Zaria Branch 11 (6 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl), Deijah Blanks 11 (6 reb, 2 stl), Dejanay Pope (3 reb), Chantel Yell 2 (3 reb, 6 ast, 2 stl).

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (1-10-12) — When evaluating the Grossmont Hills League, never overlook the West Hills Wolf Pack. There is proof in the pudding as the Pack has won four straight league championships and is favored to make it five.

One thing about coach RYAN KINSER, he’s not cocky. He weighs situations as they are, on a game by game basis.

In Monday’s (Jan. 9) Grossmont Conference crossover rout of El Capitan, 62-25, the Wolf Pack made it look easy even though they started slowly.

“Unfortunately we started off slow once again... it’s becoming a big concern,” said Kinser. “We led only 8-2 after one quarter and our shooting was pathetic from the field, hitting just 3 of 15.”

“We played better in the second quarter, took advantage of our size and was able to score in the post area (to lead 25-11). However, we were unable to make any 3's (0-9 in the first half).”

No doubt that was a problem for Kinser.

However, West Hills rebounded in the second half.

“Once again we put (our opponents) away at the start of the second half when we went on a 10-0 run in the first 2 minutes,” Kinser said. “All 10 girls played a lot of minutes and all 10 were able to score. We are fortunate to have a deep bench, it should help us later on in the season. We need to shoot better as the season rolls on, 3-for-13 from the 3-point line won’t cut it.”

West Hills: Taylor Ingraham 13, Jillian Brown 11, Emily Cole 10, Bailey Albers 8, Jenesis Hayes 6, Jessica Scott 4, Kylie Cristini 4, Daniana Ghandour 2, Taylor Aguirre 2, Arielle Bowers 2.

El Capitan: No scoring or stats reported by El Capitan.

MONTE VISTA 61, HELIX 34 – Monte Vista stormed to a 38-10 halftime lead and never looked back as the Monarchs won their 9th game in their last 10 starts over host Helix in Monday’s (Jan. 9) Grossmont Conference crossover meeting.

ABIGAIL VARGAS led the Monarchs with 16 points and 9 steals, while FELICIA PORTER popped in 14 points and bagged 9 rebounds.

HEATHER BELL led Monte Vista’s supporting cast with a dozen points.

“We played hard and they played hard,” Monte Vista coach MICHAEL SKIBBE said. “Our young kids had a lot of minutes. We were 14-for-25 at the free throw line.”

“FELICIA PORTER had a good night,” Skibbe noted.

FAITH LEAUPEPETELE led Helix with 12 points and SARAH MEREDITH contributed 10.

Monte Vista: Abigail Vargas 16 (3 reb, 9 stl, 3 ast), Felicia Porter 14 (9 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk), Heather Bell 12 (2 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Dionna Mercer 7 (5 reb, 4 stl), Jazmine Bradley 5 (4 reb, 3 stl, 2 ast), Stefanie Banks 4 (6 reb), Monica Williams 2 (4 reb), Kayla Harrell 1 (6 reb, 1 blk, 2 ast), Monique Williams (1 reb, 1 ast).

Helix: Faith Leaupepetele 12, Sarah Meredith 10. (No other scoring or stats reported.)

GRANITE HILLS 62, OTAY RANCH 23 – JESSICA HARRIS poured in a season-high 33 points to lead the Eagles past the visiting Mustangs on Monday (Jan. 9) in a non-league game.

Four of Harris’s 13 field goals came from long distance. She was also 3-for-3 from the free throw line, grabbed 7 rebounds and made 7 steals.

“Otay Ranch was a scrappy team,” said Eagles coach JERRY PARKER. “I thought our intensity was bad at the start of the game but Jessica Harris kept us afloat in the first half.”

ANNA VIETTRY contributed 11 points to the Eagles’ cause while SKYLAR WILLIAMS pitched in with 9 points and 8 rebounds.

HAILEY GARNER led the Eagles with 10 boards.

“We got some energy off the bench from LEENA (ALYASHAA) and NAE (HARVEY) in the second half,” said Parker. “They were the spark that we needed to really pull away.”

Granite Hills: Jessica Harris 33 (7 reb, 1 ast, 7 stl), Anna Viettry 11 (5 reb, 6 ast, 2 stl), Skylar Williams 9 (8 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Hailey Garner 3 (10 reb, 2 ast, 5 stl, 3 blk), Keji Kubari 2 (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Nae Harvey 2 (2 reb, 3 stl), Mariah Vanlandingham 2 (2 reb, 1 blk), Kayla Kemp (6 reb), Leena Alyashaa (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Erica Phillips (1 reb), Madison Lumb (1 reb).

SANTANA 34, GROSSMONT 28 – Santana held the Foothillers to 9 points in the second half to improve their record to 7-9 in Monday’s (Jan. 9) Grossmont Conference crossover encounter.

KAYTI GRABLE pitched in 14 points for the Sultans, while HALEY BURTON hammered down a double-double of 11 points and 17 rebounds.

DANIELLE DAHLE led Grossmont (2-13) with 13 points and 11 rebounds.

“We came out very flat and had a tremendous second quarter, being aggressive and playing good defense,” said Hillers coach JEFF BICKFORD. “We did nothing in the second half offensively.

“Coming into this game I thought we had a great chance against Santana. They wanted it more by getting the offensive rebounds and getting loose balls.”

Santana: Kayti Grable 14 (5 reb, 1 ast, 1 blk), Haley Burton 11 (17 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk), Emily Kloss 5 (6 reb, 4 ast, 4 stl, 1 blk), Sydney Blackburn 4 (5 reb), Savanah Fenn (5 reb, 1 stl), Veronica Lopez (3 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Ariel Rassmussen (1 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Becca Ramirez (2 reb), Taylor Estes (1 reb, 1 stl).

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 13 (11 reb, 1 stl, 2 blk), Christina Valdez 4 (1 reb), Carly Lopez 3 (4 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Bria Miller 2 (5 reb, 1 stl), Danielle Davis 2 (5 reb, 1 blk), Olivia Meek 2, Rae’Chelle Ransaw 2 (4 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk),

STEELE CANYON 56, EL CAJON VALLEY 26 – Steele Canyon snapped an 11-11 first quarter tie by outscoring visiting El Cajon Valley 36-8 in the middle two quarters of Monday’s (Jan. 9) Grossmont Conference crossover contest.

In the second quarter the Cougars outscored the Braves 15-3, followed by a 21-5 run in the third quarter, to take a commanding 47-19 lead into the fourth quarter.

The Cougars were led by senior post ALI MERLINO who chipped in 18 points and snagged 6 rebounds, along with junior point guard MONIQUE VAN, who had 17 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists and 3 steals.

The Cougars welcomed back shooting guard TIANA TEO, who was 2-for-4 from 3-point range and 2-for-2 from the free throw line. ALEXIS RAMOS continued her strong rebounding efforts with 9 boards.

“We started out well but we let our emotions take over,” said Braves coach MARC BOYKINS. “Then foul trouble hit us and with two starters still out, it went downhill from there. We just have to put this behind us and keep moving forward.”

Steele Canyon: Ali Merlino 18 (6 reb, 2 stl, 1 ast, 2 blk), Monique Van 17 (9 reb, 3 stl, 6 ast), Tiana Teo 8 (1 ast, 1 stl), Alexis Ramos 5 (9 reb, 2 stl), Jessica Thompson 5 (1 reb, 2 stl, 3 ast), Rachel Beasley 4 (3 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Malicia Jordan 4 (4 reb), Kim Cook (2 reb).

El Cajon Valley: Natasha Fernandez 13 (4 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Micia Lopez 6 (12 reb, 2 stl), Toni England 4 (4 reb), Miranda Mullens 3 (4 reb), Joanna Dela Cruz (4 reb, 3 ast), Alescia Dean (6 reb, 1 stl), Mary Grace Ronquillo (1 reb, 1 stl).

© East County Sports.com
SANTEE (1-8-12) — Once again West Hills established itself as one of the top three teams in East County by slamming Santee rival Santana on Saturday (Jan. 7) 71-27 in a nonleague game.

The Wolf Pack (10-4) outscored the Sultans 38-5 in the second half.

“We picked it up a little in the second quarter and pulled away a little,” said West Hills coach RYAN KINSER. “ We played average D in the first half but they made some tough shots. (Santana’s) SYDNEY BLACKBURN played well the first half, scoring 11.”

“We came out and really played well in the second half, played great Defense and held them to just 5 points,” Kinser added. “JILLIAN BROWN played real well, scoring 14 in limited minutes. All 10 girls played well and contributed.”

West Hills: Jillian Brown 14, Taylor Ingraham 13, Arielle Bowers 10, Bailey Albers 7, Daniana Ghandour 6, Emily Cole 8, Kylie Cristini 5, Jenesis Hayes 4, Jessica Scott 2, Taylor Aguirre 2.

Santana: Sydney Blackburn 11 (3 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Haley Burton 9 (1 reb, 2 blk), Kayty Grable 3 (5 reb), Taylor Estes 3 (1 reb), No. 35 1, Veronica Lopez (1 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Savannah Garcia (3 reb, 1 stl), Savanah Fenn (2 ast), Emily Kloss (3 reb), Becca Ramirez (2 reb), Rassmussen (1 ast).

Valencia-WEST RANCH 59, STEELE CANYON 39 – Steele Canyon could never get in synch in this nonleague contest with the team from Valencia on Saturday (Jan. 7).

West Ranch hammered Steele Canyon with 11 three-pointers and netted 12 of 15 free throws to down the Cougars.

The Cougars were paced by ALI MERLINO with 19 points and 5 rebounds and MONIQUE VAN with 12 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals.

“It was a good game but they made 11 threes and that was the difference,” said Steele Canyon coach DALE PARKER. “We couldn’t make a jump shot to save our lives. After the game their coach told me this was the best game his kids had ever played.”

Steele Canyon: Ali Merlino 19 (5 reb, 1 stl), Monique Van 12 (8 reb, 3 stl, 4 ast), Jessica Thomspon 4 (1 ast), Alexis Ramos 2 (11 reb, 1 stl, 1 ast), Rachel Beasley 2 (2 reb, 1 ast).

© East County Sports.com
EL CAJON (1-7-12) — Host Valhalla found a third prong to what has been a two-player attack in Friday’s (Jan. 6) Grossmont Conference crossover 45-33 victory over visiting El Capitan.

KANDICE KALASHO set the tone for the Norsemen (2-12) with 15 points.

The surprise contributor for Valhalla was SHYLA CRIGER-PHILIPP, who pitched in with 12 points, 11 rebounds and 7 blocks.

The Norsemen’s 3-point bomber ALEXIS SILVA nailed 3 long-rangers to finish with 11 points and 11 rebounds.

“We finally had more than two people score in double digits for us and that obviously made a difference for us,” said Valhalla coach AL SILVA.

El Capitan coach EDDIE LaSALLE could have pointed out that VANESSA SIERRA had 11 points for the Vaqueros and BEKAH LEONARD had 10.

Valhalla: Kandice Kalasho 15 (2 ast, 4 stl), Shyla Criger-Philipp 12 (11 reb, 7 blk, 2 ast), Alexis Silva 11 (11 reb, 1 stl, 3 blk), Hayley Swanger 5 (2 reb, 1 ast), Melanie Jirjis 2 (1 ast), Jessica May (3 reb, 2 stl).

El Capitan: Vanessa Sierra 11, Bekah Leonard 10, DeAnna Reed 5, Cierra Cutler 5, Kira Lopez 2.

EL CAJON VALLEY 41, HELIX 33 – Playing without two key starters visiting El Cajon Valley managed to find a way to post a rare Grossmont Conference crossover victory over Helix in Friday’s (Jan. 6) action.

It took two decades for El Cajon Valley to finally beat Helix and it took exactly one more calendar month for the Braves to beat the Highlanders a second time around. Thanks to NATASHA FERNANDEZ and MICIA LOPEZ, the Braves put those doubters to rest with a 41-33 win over the host Highlanders.

On Dec. 5, El Cajon Valley edged Helix 43-42 in the Lady Monarchs Invitational.

Both teams got off to an offensive start that even a snail could keep pace with as 11 points combined were scored in the first 11 minutes of the game.

The senior southpaw has a Jimmer Fredette style approach to her game and when she gets things going watch out. It just all comes with confidence in herself.

“When we were losing to them before, Natasha was 1-of-11 at the time,” Boykins said of Fernandez. “I called on her to take the last shot because I know what it's all about and I know what she can do. I knew she didn't believe in herself, but I really didn't care if we won or lost that game. It was about her confidence and it definitely shows now. She was a little flustered in the beginning so I pulled her out and told her 'I can't believe in you more than you believe in me.'”

Fernandez had missed her first six three-point attempts, but she had no plans to stop shooting the rock after that pep talk.

“I missed so bad in the beginning coach sat me down because he knew I was trying too hard and already melting down, but the confidence he has in me led me to believe after seeing that first one go through the net everything would be fine,” she said.

It didn't stop at that first one, it actually turned into her making 6 of her next 7 shots from deep. A pair of those were even from 30 feet out as she caught fire and the Braves never looked back.

SARAH MEREDITH and HAYLEY SINGER did their parts to keep things close for Helix as Meredith had 10 points and 20 boards, while Singer had 8 and 14 respectively. Defensively Meredith had 4 steals and Singer had 4 rejections that even brought the Helix faithful to their feet. FAITH LEAUPEPETELE was big on the boards with 16 rebounds.

It just wasn't in the cards for Helix on this night though, and even without their leader the Braves kept the Ball rolling on their successful start this year.

El Cajon Valley: Natasha Fernandez 19 (5 reb, 4 stl, 1 blk), Micia Lopez 14 (9 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk), Joanna Dela Cruz 6 (2 reb, 4 ast, 4 stl), Miranda Mullens 2 (7 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Mary Grace Ronquillo (2 reb, 1 ast, 1 stl), Allescia Dean (2 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk), Toni England (1 reb, 1 stl).

Helix: Sarah Meredith 10 (16 reb, 4 stl), Hayley Singer 8 (14 reb, 1 ast, 4 blk), Brittany Jones 7 (1 stl), Faith Leaupepetele 6 (16 reb, 5 ast, 4 stl), Tenae Johnson 2 (3 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl), Fuafiva Pulu (1 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl), Debbi Cardenas (1 reb).

CHRISTIAN 27, MADISON 18 – The Central League girls basketball race is composed of haves and have-not programs. Following Friday's (Jan. 6) road victory, the Patriots clearly stand somewhere in between.

Following a difficult start to the season, Christian's defense stood tall by allowing just a single bucket in three of the four quarters to put away the Warhawks. Madison converted just one field goal in the first, second and fourth periods, while the Patriots defense withstood a run to start the second half to maintain their wire-to-wire victory.

"We played hard the entire game and took away their jumpers," said Christian guard MIA JOHNSON, the team's senior captain. "We came out strong and challenged everything."

CHAYAN LOWERY paced Christian with nine points, including five in the third to thwart Madison 's rally, while her sister, ALESIA LOWERY, added eight points, including a pair of 3-point shots.

Christian: Chayan Lowery 9, Alesia Lowery 8, Jillian Sexton 5, Mia Johnson 4, Anaya Tobiason 1.

— Nick Pellegrino

LA JOLLA COUNTRY DAY 82, MONTE VISTA 26 – Monarchs coach MICHAEL SKIBBE is not afraid of a challenge. But taking on the No. 1 ranked La Jolla Country Day Torreys is never an easy chore, as it proved Friday (Jan. 6) night in Spring Valley.

“We had too many unforced turnovers,” Skibbe said. “We got to the basket and didn’t finish. I think we got a little nervous. They’re the No. 1 ranked team in the county but our young kids got in and competed. (The Torreys) beat the No. 5-ranked team in the state – St. Mary’s – by 20 points.

ABIGAIL VARGAS led the Monarchs with 12 points.

“We did things that we can fix – I’m not upset with the outcome, maybe a little bit with the effort,” Skibbe said. “It’s not about who, it’s about how you play. We have three games next week and I’m not overlooking any of them.

“Tonight’s loss wasn’t a bad thing, just something I thought we would play better. We got some nice looks but just didn’t finish it.”

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

© East County Sports.com
SPRING VALLEY (1-4-12) — ABIGAIL VARGAS scored 16 points to lead Monte Vista to its 7th straight victory 58-34 in Tuesday’s (Jan. 3) Grossmont Conference crossover contest against visiting Grossmont.

The Monarchs outscored the Foothillers across the board, including 23-9 in the final period.

“Coach (MICHAEL) SKIBBE has built a nice program over there in Spring Valley,” said Grossmont coach JEFF BICKFORD. “His kids play hard till the final whistle. I know with time we will have our program on the right track.”

DANIELLE DAHLE scored a game-high 18 points, grabbed 12 rebounds and made 7 blocks for Grossmont.

“I thought we could do better than we did on Dahle,” Skibbe said. “She scored a lot of points.”

FELICIA PORTER shot 8-for-10 at the line and finished with 14 points.

DIONNA MERCER shot 7-for-10 free throws on her way to an 11-point finish.

“I was pretty happy where we were at the free throw line,” Skibbe noted.

“We knew this was going to be a physical game,” Bickford said. “They rebound real well and run the floor. Looking up in the third quarter and only being down 10 points 35-25, we had a good chance I thought. They blew us out of the gym in the 4th quarter, 23-9.”

Monte Vista: Abigail Vargas 16 (5 reb, 6 stl), Felicia Porter 14 (6 reb, 1 stl 1 ast), Dionna Mercer 11 (7 reb, 4 stl, 5 ast), Jazmine Bradley 4 (3 reb, 3 stl, 1 ast), Stefanie Banks 4 (3 reb, 2 stl), Heather Bell 4, Monique Williams 2 (1 reb, 1 stl), Kayla Harrell 2 (2 reb, 2 stl), Monica Williams 2 (1 reb).

Grossmont: Danielle Dahle 18 (12 reb, 7 blk, 3 stl), Bria Miller 5 (3 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl), Olivia Meek 3 (1 reb), Carly Lopez 3 (2 reb, 1 stl), Katarina Schweitzer 2 (1 reb, 1 blk), Larissa Foggiano 2 (2 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk), Julia Naranjo 1 (1 reb), Danielle Davis (8 reb, 1 stl), Christina Valdez (1 reb, 1 stl).

GRANITE HILLS 76, EL CAJON VALLEY 29 – SKYLAR WILLIAMS scored 15 points, made 9 steals and dished 5 assists to help lead the Eagles past El Cajon Valley on Tuesday (Jan. 3) in a Grossmont crossover game.

The Eagles (15-3) barged in front 26-2 in the first quarter and broke the game open with a 26-1 spread in the third quarter.

“I thought our girls did a great job on defense,” said Granite Hills coach JERRY PARKER. “We had one goal and that was to keep CHELSEA BALL under control. I wanted my girls to take it personal after a made basket and not let them cross half court as long as Chelsea was in the game.”

“I have so much respect for Chelsea as a player with the intensity that she plays the game,” Parker added. KEJI KUBARI did a great job on Chelsea in the half court.”

JESSICA HARRIS added 13 points while ANNA VIETTRY pitched in 11points and 7 assists.

“Granite Hills is a very good defense team,” said El Cajon Valley coach MARC BOYKINS. “They are very quick and very aggressive. We could not handle their team speed and athleticism. When we got into our set we performed well.

“They put a lot of pressure on us with their starters for almost an entire game even when clearly the game was out of reach. This was good for us because we have not seen an opponent like Granite Hills and I wanted to see how we would react when things were not going our way.

“I am very proud of my girls because they never gave up,” he continued. “They kept working hard and stuck together. We were definitely overmatched but there was no quit in the Lady Braves, even being down by 40 they kept on playing hard and that is what I expected.

“I am very proud of my girls for not arguing with each other when things got tough but sticking together and backing up each other. We will grow from this and get ready for the next opponent.”

Granite Hills: Skylar Williams 15 (3 reb, 5 ast, 9 stl), Jessica Harris 13 (5 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl), Anna Viettry 11 (1 reb, 7 ast, 3 stl), Hailey Garner 9 (1 reb, 1 ast, 3 stl), Kayla Kemp 9 (1 reb, 4 stl), Keji Kubari 8 (6 reb, 1 stl), Nae Harvey 4 (1 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl), Madison Lumb 4 (2 reb), Leena Alyashaa 3 (2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl).

El Cajon Valley: Chelsea Ball 9 (13 reb, 3 ast), Natasha Fernandez 9 (1 ast, 2 reb, 1 blk), Micia Lopez 6 (1 blk), Joanna Dela Cruz 3 (2 reb, 1 stl), Miranda Mullens 2 (1 reb, 1 stl).

STEELE CANYON 52, EL CAPITAN 30 – MONIQUE VAN and ALI MERLINO both had 18 points in leading Steele Canyon to a 52-30 Victory over El Capitan.

Steele Canyon won each quarter and out-rebounded the Vaqueros by almost 50 percent.

The Vaqueros closed within 11 points in the 4th quarter, but the Cougars’ Van scored 8 of her game high 18 points in the quarter along with 3 steals and 3 rebounds to close the game out.

Steele Canyon: Monique Van 18 (7 reb, 6 stl, 5 ast), Ali Merlino 18 (9 reb, 1 stl), Malicia Jordan 6 (7 reb), Jessica Thompson 5 (3 ast), Rachel Beasley 3 (6 reb, 2 stl, 2 ast), Alexis Ramos 2 (3 reb), Kim Cook (1 reb, 1 stl).

El Capitan: Vanessa Sierra 15. No other stats were reported.

SANTANA df. VALAHLLA – No report from either school on Tuesday's (Jan. 3) Grossmont Conference Tournament contest.

CORONADO 49, CHRISTIAN 15 – No report was received for this Tuesday (Jan. 3) Central League opener.

HELIX at HOOVER – No report was received for this Tuesday (Jan. 3) non-league game.