Dos Pueblos freshman Jessica Escalante defended her national title in the Pepsi NFL Punt, Pass and Kick competition on Saturday prior to the NFC Divisional playoff game between the host Carolina Panthers and Arizona Cardinals. The Charger hoops standout — who was competing in the 14-15 age division — was recognized on FOX’s television broadcast in between the third and fourth quarters.
“I got quite a handful of phone calls after they announced her name on TV,” said her basketball coach, Maynard Pilapil. “I let everyone know that I think this might be the first national champion Dos Pueblos High student ever. We’re really proud of her.”
Her teammates all gathered at senior Meghan Murphy’s house to watch, and Escalante waved to the camera at them, as she promised she would.
It’s back to the hardwood soon for the takented freshman, as DP takes on San Marcos at the Thunderhut on Tuesday.
