The Santa Barbara girls high school basketball team struggled against the half-court trap and lost 59-42 at home to Buena, its first Channel League opponent.
The Dons led by a point after the first quarter, but Buena began to press the Santa Barbara ball-handlers in the second period. The strategy gave the Bulldogs a clear advantage in the game, and they led 31-19 at the half.
“We just didn’t go to the right spots on the floor,” Santa Barbara head coach Andrew Butcher said about his team’s difficulties with the press.
Ivette Gil led the Dons with 14 points, and Desirea Coleman added 12 more.
Buena used its size advantage and was able to consistently get points in the paint, making it difficult for the Dons to close the lead.
Santa Barbara (12-5 overall, 0-1 league) will continue its season at San Marcos on Tuesday.
