The CIF-Southern Section girls basketball and soccer playoffs commenced on February 12, 2024, with 13 teams from the High Desert successfully advancing to the second round. Among the victorious squads, six basketball teams and five soccer teams will continue their playoff journeys on Saturday, with six matchups scheduled to take place in the High Desert.
Basketball Highlights
The opening round of the girls basketball playoffs featured several thrilling games. In a Division 1 matchup, Mira Costa defeated Oak Hills 45-39, concluding the Bulldogs’ season. Oak Hills initially surged ahead, with Bella Rincon scoring 12 points in the first quarter. However, a challenging second quarter saw them manage only two points, leading to a halftime deficit of 23-20. Despite a brief tie at 34-34 in the fourth quarter, Mira Costa finished strong with an 11-4 run, securing their place in the next round against Valencia.
In another notable game, Silver Valley triumphed over Valley Christian with a score of 54-51. Naomi Durrah’s impressive 35-point performance propelled the Trojans, who will host Warren in the next round. Meanwhile, Barstow edged Coastal Christian 47-45, thanks to Emily Franco’s 25 points, setting up a matchup against Burroughs.
University Prep narrowly defeated Anaheim 40-38, with Camila Zapeta hitting the game-winning shot just before the final buzzer. They will face Norwalk next. Additionally, Victor Valley Christian celebrated their first playoff victory since 2020, defeating Saddleback 28-26, led by Olivia Metler’s 10 points.
Soccer Success
On the soccer front, Granite Hills showcased their prowess by defeating Culver City 4-2, with Lianna Tsabur scoring all four goals for the Cougars. They will host Temescal Canyon in the next round. Riverside Prep also shone brightly, winning 5-0 against Gahr, with Jimena Nunez contributing two goals. The Silver Knights will travel to face Segerstrom next.
Adelanto’s Saints continued their playoff streak, moving on to the next round of the Division 6 playoffs after a solid 3-0 victory over Temecula Prep. Destiney Olague, Giselle Perez, and Samantha Aguilar all scored goals, while the team will host top-seeded Beverly Hills next.
Across the High Desert, other notable girls basketball scores included Westlake defeating Hesperia Christian 65-35 and Woodrow Wilson besting Hesperia 43-35. In soccer, Santa Monica edged Oak Hills 1-0, while Apple Valley took down Poly 3-1.
As the playoffs progress, anticipation builds for the next round of games. With several teams demonstrating remarkable skill and determination, the stage is set for an exciting continuation of the CIF-Southern Section playoffs.
