Jake Wheelock scored 22 points and Uriel Hurtado tallied 21 to lead the San Marcos boys basketball team to a 76-61 win over an aggressive Golden Valley squad at the Simi Valley Tournament on Friday.
It was the first win of the season for the Royals and coach Dave Odell.
San Marcos overcame a rough start against a pressing Golden Valley defense.
Hurtado had a hot hand, making 9 of 12 shots. He also grabbed six rebounds. Bryce Ridenour turned in an all-around performance with 14 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Kevin Hempy also played well, scoring 13 points and grabbing eight rebounds.
“Kevin didn’t lead us in scoring but he handled the ball well and made the extra pass. He also had a nice defensive game,” said Odell.
“Paxton Ridgeway stepped up for us tonight, playing heavy minutes,” Odell added. “His six assists and five steals seemed to come at those critical times in the game when we really needed them”.
The Royals finish the tournament against the host, Simi Valley, on Saturday.