San Marcos hung with Channel League title-contending Santa Barbara for a half before dropping a 65-48 decision at the Thunderhut on Tuesday.
The Royals knocked down some big shots, played tough defensively and were down by just six (28-22) at halftime.
Santa Barbara, however, took over the game in the third quarter, outscoring the Royals 28-10.
“We gave them a good run for it,” San Marcos coach Kristyn Miller said, “We wanted our last game at home something to be proud of. We’re proud of the effort.”
It was Senior NIght at San Marcos, and the Royals paid tribute to four senior players: Judith Rodriguez, Elysia Hodges, Desiree Porter-Ray and Gabby Sandoval.
Sandoval scored 13 points and Porter-Ray had 12 for the Royals.
Tess Emerson led four Dons in double figures with 17 points. Riley Lloyd knocked down 15 points, while Desirea Coleman and Ivette Gil added 12 apiece.
Santa Barbara improves to 16-8 and 4-2 in Channel League. The Dons play at Dos Pueblos on Thursday.
