Breakdowns in the fourth quarter cost the San Marco boys basketball team in a 51-39 loss to Bakersfield-Independence on Monday at the Mission Prep Tournament in San Luis Obispo.

“We were controlling most of the game, but the lack of execution in the fourth quarter slowed us down and allowed this one to get taken from us,” said San Marcos coach Jelani Hicks.

The Royals fell to 3-8 on the season while Independence improved to 6-5.

San Marcos continues tournament play on Tuesday.

“We are learning the hard way how to finish tough games, but I believe these tough games will pay off,” said Hicks.

— Noozhawk sports editor Barry Punzal can be reached at sports@noozhawk.com. Follow Noozhawk Sports on Twitter: @NoozhawkSports. Connect with Noozhawk on Facebook.