BREAKING: The CIF-Southern Section girls basketball and soccer playoffs kicked off on February 12, 2023, with an impressive 13 teams from the High Desert advancing to the second round. The excitement builds as six basketball teams and five soccer teams prepare for critical matchups this Saturday, with six games taking place in the High Desert.
In girls basketball, Mira Costa edged out Oak Hills with a score of 45-39 at Oak Hills. Despite a strong start, the Bulldogs struggled in the second quarter, scoring only two points. Bella Rincon led Mira Costa with 21 points, while Carla Rodriguez contributed 12 points including her 100th career three-pointer. Mira Costa will face Valencia, which triumphed over Chino 76-44.
In another thrilling matchup, Silver Valley stunned the No. 2 seed, Valley Christian, with a 54-51 victory. Naomi Durrah was a standout, scoring 35 points and hitting a crucial free throw that sealed the game with just two seconds left. Silver Valley (17-8) is set to host Warren, who defeated Fontana 50-37.
Over in Barstow, the Aztecs pulled off a nail-biting win against Coastal Christian, finishing 47-45. Emily Franco led her team with 25 points, setting the stage for a matchup against Burroughs, who defeated Chaffey 40-32.
In Division 8, University Prep narrowly defeated Anaheim 40-38, thanks to a last-second shot from Camila Zapeta. The Jaguars (11-12) will host Norwalk, which defeated Elsinore 44-36.
Meanwhile, the Victor Valley Christian Royals celebrated their first playoff victory since 2020, edging out Saddleback 28-26. Olivia Metler led the team with 10 points. The Royals (7-5) are gearing up to host Santa Clarita Christian after their win over Webb 38-32.
In girls soccer, Granite Hills dominated Culver City 4-2, with Lianna Tsabur scoring all four goals for her team. The Cougars (18-4-1) will host Temescal Canyon, who beat Santa Fe 3-0.
The Riverside Prep Silver Knights secured a commanding 5-0 victory over Gahr, with Jimena Nunez contributing two goals. Riverside Prep (13-7-3) will travel to face Segerstrom, who won against Palmdale 2-0.
Adelanto also advanced with a 3-0 win over Temecula Prep, marking their third consecutive trip to the second round of the Division 6 playoffs. Destiney Olague, Giselle Perez, and Samantha Aguilar each scored, while Allison Aguilar and Mya Wilson provided assists.
As the playoffs progress, basketball and soccer fans in the High Desert are eagerly anticipating the upcoming matches. With high stakes and intense competition, these games promise to deliver thrilling action. Stay tuned for updates and scores as teams vie for championship glory in the CIF-Southern Section playoffs!
