Carpinteria began its season on Monday with a 39-23 victory over rival Bishop Diego in a non-league game.
The Warriors were ready to play and opened up a 14-2 lead from the opening tip. But the Cardinals recovered and rallied to cut the lead to four in the third quarter. That was as close as Bishop Diego would get as Carpinteria dominated the final period using a pressure defense that forced a handful of turnovers.
Sierra Diaz collected 10 points, seven rebounds, five steals and three assists for the Warriors. Monique Sanchez just missed a double-double with 10 points and nine rebounds while point guard Tori Kelley added nine points.
K’Lei Martinez’s six points were a team-high for the Cardinals. Head coach Jeff Burich commended the play of Andrea Castellanos, calling it the best game of her high school career.
Bishop Diego hosts Thacher on Thursday in the first game of the Bird Cage Classic.
