GBK: Fast-starting Dons romp to Brian Ayer title

Santa Barbara High didn’t waste any time taking control in the championship game of the Brian Ayer Classic in Lompoc.

The Dons jumped out to a 27-6 lead in the first quarter against Righetti and rolled to a 68-31 victory.

“We played at 10:30 in the morning after playing last night and we wanted to come out strong,” coach Andrew Butcher said. “And we were able to do it. That was nice.”

Tournament MVP Amber Melgoza scored 27 points and was a menace on defense with eight steals. Sophomore Alondra Jimenez scored 15 points and Jada Howard had a strong game with 9 points, 4 steals and 5 rebounds.

Butcher praised the all-around play of Liliana Ponce. “She was all over the court and did a terrific job disrupting the other team,” he said.

The Dons (3-0) return to action Wednesday against Santa Ynez in the Gold Coast Tournament at San Marcos High.