Valencia holds down Chargers at Simi tourney

Jaleel Howard’s 22 points paced Valencia past Dos Pueblos 70-57 in Tuesday’s Simi Valley Tournament game.

The Vikings jumped out to a 26-13 lead after one quarter.

“Valencia came out strong and played aggressively on both ends,” reported Chargers head coach Joe Zamora.

Chris Williams’ 18 points led Dos Pueblos, which also got 17 points from Cruz Mertens. The Chargers were strong from the free throw line as a team, converting 25 of 30 attempts.

It was the season opener for both teams. Tournament play continues on Wednesday before resuming on Friday and Saturday after a one-day break on Thursday.

Dos Pueblos plays Simi Valley next.

VALENCIA 70, DOS PUEBLOS 57

V 26 12 17 15 – 70
DP 13 9 11 24 – 57

Valencia – Cardenas 19, Honaker 13, Howard 22, Wellington 1
Mike 9, Sanchez 4, Joyce 1, Mesa 2

DP – Perez 7, Williams 18, Mertens 17, Wopat 7, Ray 1, Shugart 6