The San Marcos girls basketball team advanced to the championship game of the Santa Barbara Tournament of Champions with a 52-44 semifinal win over Camarillo on Wednesday.
San Marcos will play Del Norte of San Diego for the title at 5:30 p.m. at the Santa Barbara High. Del Norte defeated Oaks Christian, 43-34.
The Gold Division final will be a battle of South Bay neighbors as Bishop Montgomery of Torrance plays Redondo Union at 7 p.m. at SBHS.
Bishop Montgomery held off Westlake, 62-55, while Redondo Union edged Granada Hills, 39-37, in semifinal games.
Ellie Monson scored 19 points to lead San Marcos and Mia Martinez-Tomatis added 13 points in the Green Division semifinals
“The girls played as a team,” said San Marcos coach Tiffany Sims. “Defensively, we were disciplined and were able to locate shooters and stay close to not let them shoot. Offensively, we moved the ball effectively and took good quality shots. “
Del Norte was led by Bailey Barnhard’s 18 points against Oaks Christian
San Luis Obispo 40, Santa Barbara 25
The host Dons struggled in the first half and trailed 20-4 at the break in the Green Division consolation-round game.
The team regrouped and played a better second half.
Dayzia Mendoza had 13 points and Miranda Dennis scored 12 to lead Santa Barbara. Daylan Donati provided a boost.
“Miranda and Daylan both played their strongest games of the season, and Dayzia continues to lead us with solid play,” said coach Andrew Butcher.
San Diego-San Marcos 57, Dos Pueblos 43
Justine Katz scored 25 points for the Chargers in the Green Division loss.
“Justine Katz is really leading this group and stepping up every single game,” said coach Manny Murillo. “Win or lose, I am confident in this group and I think we will be peaking at the right time.
“But it starts with effort. When I first took the job, the three things I stressed was attitude, energy, and effort. I don’t feel like we have given maximum effort on both sides of the ball as a team the past couple games, especially when it comes to rebounding and defensive pressure.”
Evette Allen added eight points for the Chargers, who play Santa Barbara in the seventh-place game at 10 a.m. at San Marcos.