A 24-5 first-quarter deficit proved too steep a hill to climb for the Santa Barbara girls, who went on to lose 69-35 to host Pacifica on Thursday.
“We got off to a slow start first quarter and then played some fairly good basketball,” Dons coach Andrew Butcher said. “Fatigue definitely played a factor as this was our third game in three days.”
Santa Barbara was led by Jaz Gordon with 13 points and Dayzia Mendoza with 12 points and team-leading six rebounds and five assists.
The Dons finish the season 1-12 in Channel League play and 3-20 overall.
“I was extremely proud of the progress we made throughout the season,” Butcher said. “Despite having only one returning varsity player from last season, we played some solid basketball in league play. We have an outstanding nucleus returning for next season.”
Ventura 57, Dos Pueblos 42
The Dos Pueblos girls stayed close to Channel League leader Ventura in the first half, but a big third quarter led the Cougars to a 57-42 victory Thursday at Sovine Gym.
Justine Katz led the Chargers in the season-ending game with 14 points, adding four rebounds and an assist. Carly Letendre added 13 points, two rebounds and a steal, and Lauren Robles six points, four rebounds and two blocks.
Dos Pueblos was up 11-9 after one quarter, and “our defense was pretty good and we were communicating and remembering the game plan,” coach Manny Murillo said. That held in the second quarter as the Chargers were down only four at halftime, 22-18.
But missed defensive assignments led to a 19-9 Cougar third.
“Credit to Ventura and Coach Ann (Larson),” Murillo said. “Ventura was the best team in the league this year. You can’t get lost on defense or they will capitalize on your mistakes, and they always make the extra pass.”
The Chargers finish with a 5-9 league record and 10-17 overall.
“It was a bittersweet night, as it was our Senior Night,” Murillo said. “We have two senior players and three senior managers that have been a blessing to have in the program. They all will be missed. We really wanted to win this game for our seniors.
“Unfortunately, this puts an end to our season, but I’d like to thank God for the opportunity to coach this group this year, and I’d like to thank the coaching staff, Andy Cassanueva and Caleb Richey, for all their time and effort.
“Good luck to all the teams in our league who are making playoffs. I know you will represent our league well.”
San Marcos 70, Rio Mesa 34
Mia Martinez-Tomatis and Oceanna Bauer both scored 16 points to lead the Royals over Rio Mesa Thursday.
“Tonight was senior night, and although emotional and bittersweet, everyone played well and contributed to points on the board,” Royals coach Tiffany Simms said.
San Marcos plays at Buena Friday for the last spot in the CIF-SS playoffs.