With only seven available players facing a much bigger squad in size and numbers, coach Kristyn Miller said that the San Marcos girls basketball team played some of its best basketball of the season in Saturday’s 65-51 loss at Valencia.
Jeannette Mendoza dropped in 15 points for the Royals, while Kimmy Sanchez chipped in 14 and Kelley Chilton scored 10.
“We got back to what Royals basketball is all about with our focus and intensity,” said Miller. “The girls are getting to the point where they’re really starting to figure out and accept their roles.”San Marcos (5-9) was within four points of the Vikings (11-2) in the final three minutes.
“They’re a great team with great athletes and great coaching, and they have the potential to finish first or second in (the Foothill League),” said Miller.
Chilton nailed some key 3-pointers to keep San Marcos close early in the game, while Mendoza and Sanchez each played heads-up basketball, according to their coach.
Channel League play begins Tuesday when the Royals host the always-powerful Buena Bulldogs.
“I have 100-percent faith that we will compete with them. We’re just going to have to be relentless,” said Miller.
VALENCIA 65, SAN MARCOS 51
SAN MARCOS – Hyslop 2, Brown 3, Mendoza 15, Ochoa 5, Chilton 10, Sanchez 14. Totals – 16, 13-18, 51.
VALENCIA – Lentz 4, Hill 8, Jackson 6, Spargo 10, Wright 6, Cavanaugh 10, Anumbe 5. Totals – 27, 9-10, 65.
San Marcos 17 7 12 15 — 51
Valencia 22 9 12 20 — 65
3-Pointers – SM 6 (Sanchez 3, Chilton 2, Brown), V 2 (Hill 2). Total Fouls – SM 9, V 15.
