JetHawks: Opportunities go by in home-opening loss to Mavericks
April 14, 2016
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — In danger of getting zilch out of a bases-loaded, no-outs situation in the second inning on Thursday night, the No. 9 hitter in the JetHawks’ lineup seized the moment and stepped up to the plate.
By the end of the at-bat — which took place after Mark Wik and Jose Fernandez both grounded out into run-nullifying fielder’s choices at home — Kristian Trompiz was out, but not before lining a single to center field to drive in the first two runs of the home season for the JetHawks and then getting thrown out at second while trying to stretch the hit.
In the sixth inning of what turned out to be an 8-4 JetHawks’ defeat at the hands of High Desert, Trompiz came to bat again with two outs and the bases full of teammates, but this time he was unable to come through.
“I was really focused in the first opportunity with bases loaded, trying to find the bottom of the barrel, make contact,” Trompiz said. “The second time it was the same plan, but you know, things happen.”
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — In danger of getting zilch out of a bases-loaded, no-outs situation in the second inning on Thursday night, the No. 9 hitter in the JetHawks’ lineup seized the moment and stepped up to the plate.
By the end of the at-bat — which took place after Mark Wik and Jose Fernandez both grounded out into run-nullifying fielder’s choices at home — Kristian Trompiz was out, but not before lining a single to center field to drive in the first two runs of the home season for the JetHawks and then getting thrown out at second while trying to stretch the hit.
In the sixth inning of what turned out to be an 8-4 JetHawks’ defeat at the hands of High Desert, Trompiz came to bat again with two outs and the bases full of teammates, but this time he was unable to come through.
“I was really focused in the first opportunity with bases loaded, trying to find the bottom of the barrel, make contact,” Trompiz said. “The second time it was the same plan, but you know, things happen.”
More>>
JetHawks: HOF Vasquez seizes chance at being manager
By ALONSO TACANGA
April 6, 2016
LANCASTER - Ramon Vazquez's offseason was a whirlwind.
After a week off following the JetHawks' elimination in the Cal League South Division Mini-Series against High Desert in September, Vazquez managed in instructional league for two weeks, came back to California for seven days and then flew out to Puerto Rico to be a coach in winter ball.
After that ended in early February, the former JetHawks player took off for spring training, which officially ended on Sunday.
"I haven't had much time off," Vazquez said on Tuesday during JetHawks' media day. "That was the whole offseason for me."
Somewhere under the tropical clouds of his native Puerto Rico, however, the mayhem offered him a moment he did not see coming just yet.
More>>
April 6, 2016
LANCASTER - Ramon Vazquez's offseason was a whirlwind.
After a week off following the JetHawks' elimination in the Cal League South Division Mini-Series against High Desert in September, Vazquez managed in instructional league for two weeks, came back to California for seven days and then flew out to Puerto Rico to be a coach in winter ball.
After that ended in early February, the former JetHawks player took off for spring training, which officially ended on Sunday.
"I haven't had much time off," Vazquez said on Tuesday during JetHawks' media day. "That was the whole offseason for me."
Somewhere under the tropical clouds of his native Puerto Rico, however, the mayhem offered him a moment he did not see coming just yet.
More>>
Men's College Basketball: AVC keeps SDCC at bay in playoff opener
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
Feb. 26, 2016
LANCASTER - Chris Martin hit the floor for what seemed like the 100th time a player got close and personal with the hardwood on Friday night, and for once a coach didn't demand that a foul be called.
"It might be the most physical game we've played (this season)," the Antelope Valley College guard said.
In his haste to get back into the second half of a second-round game of the CCCAA SoCal Regional playoffs against San Diego City College, Martin had simply stumbled on his way to the scorer's table, drawing light laughter from the home supporters.
But in a laboring 87-83 grind-out win that catapulted the Marauders (24-6) to round 3 against either San Bernardino or Citrus, it was all intense, serious business as AVC and San Diego City (22-8) traded almost as many body checks as baskets.
More>>
Feb. 26, 2016
LANCASTER - Chris Martin hit the floor for what seemed like the 100th time a player got close and personal with the hardwood on Friday night, and for once a coach didn't demand that a foul be called.
"It might be the most physical game we've played (this season)," the Antelope Valley College guard said.
In his haste to get back into the second half of a second-round game of the CCCAA SoCal Regional playoffs against San Diego City College, Martin had simply stumbled on his way to the scorer's table, drawing light laughter from the home supporters.
But in a laboring 87-83 grind-out win that catapulted the Marauders (24-6) to round 3 against either San Bernardino or Citrus, it was all intense, serious business as AVC and San Diego City (22-8) traded almost as many body checks as baskets.
More>>
HS Boys Basketball: Ailing Gipson leads 'Dogs to 1st round win
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
Feb. 18, 2016
PALMDALE - Dejected after his team "laid an egg" in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1A playoffs on Wednesday, Westlake head coach Rob Bloom had a frank moment when asked about Highland's Deshay Gipson, the main catalyst of the Bulldogs' 67-40 win over the Warriors.
"If (Gipson) is playing like that, I don't know that we can beat them on our best day," Bloom said.
After knocking down six 3-pointers and slashing his way to the rim for 30 points, Gipson made sure Westlake looked ordinary, even as the Highland junior wasn't on his best day health-wise.
Still dealing with a case of bronchitis, Gipson could be seen sneezing repeatedly throughout the game, one that saw the Bulldogs jump out to a double-digit lead in the first quarter.
More>>
Feb. 18, 2016
PALMDALE - Dejected after his team "laid an egg" in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1A playoffs on Wednesday, Westlake head coach Rob Bloom had a frank moment when asked about Highland's Deshay Gipson, the main catalyst of the Bulldogs' 67-40 win over the Warriors.
"If (Gipson) is playing like that, I don't know that we can beat them on our best day," Bloom said.
After knocking down six 3-pointers and slashing his way to the rim for 30 points, Gipson made sure Westlake looked ordinary, even as the Highland junior wasn't on his best day health-wise.
Still dealing with a case of bronchitis, Gipson could be seen sneezing repeatedly throughout the game, one that saw the Bulldogs jump out to a double-digit lead in the first quarter.
More>>
Men's Basketball: UAV's Teran quickly becoming face of young program
Jan. 14, 2016
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - It took 10-year-old Franky Teran two years to best the one who introduced him to the game of basketball: his best friend, Eric Stoglin.
"He was way better than me, but eventually I got better," said Teran, a junior guard for the University of Antelope Valley.
Teran would go on to star as a senior at Pueblo High (Ariz.) and as a freshman and sophomore at Chandler-Gilbert Community College (Ariz.), raising his level of play with every passing year.
This season, the first-ever for the UAV men's basketball program, Teran has once again played himself into the role of "the man" for the Pioneers.
"(Teran) is one of the first guys I went after when I first got the job (as coach)," UAV head coach Brad Rogers said.
Many years removed from those days in Arizona hooping with Stoglin, Teran became the first Pioneer ever to claim the California Pacific Conference Player of the Week award on Jan. 5.
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - It took 10-year-old Franky Teran two years to best the one who introduced him to the game of basketball: his best friend, Eric Stoglin.
"He was way better than me, but eventually I got better," said Teran, a junior guard for the University of Antelope Valley.
Teran would go on to star as a senior at Pueblo High (Ariz.) and as a freshman and sophomore at Chandler-Gilbert Community College (Ariz.), raising his level of play with every passing year.
This season, the first-ever for the UAV men's basketball program, Teran has once again played himself into the role of "the man" for the Pioneers.
"(Teran) is one of the first guys I went after when I first got the job (as coach)," UAV head coach Brad Rogers said.
Many years removed from those days in Arizona hooping with Stoglin, Teran became the first Pioneer ever to claim the California Pacific Conference Player of the Week award on Jan. 5.
More>>
Men's Basketball: Teran, Pioneers hold on against Bethesda
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
Jan. 5, 2016
LANCASTER - The ball traveled as if in slowmotion from behind the three-point line during the game's final seconds on Tuesday night, signifying the potential completion of a meltdown that started with the University of Antelope Valley ahead by double digits just moments earlier.
"What was going through my mind? Hoping that he missed," UAV guard Franky Teran said.
As the would-be-game-tying trey from Bethesda University's Justin Latham drew nothing but the top of the backboard and UAV corralled the rebound with 10 seconds to go, the Pioneers (7-7) were finally able to exhale in the midst of a wild 78-74 victory that was their sixth in their last seven games.
Behind Teran's career-high 26 points - the most ever scored by a Pioneer - UAV ultimately shook off a Flames team that came into the Pioneer Event Center with a 1-13 record.
The Pioneers needed every one of them in the end.
More>>
Jan. 5, 2016
LANCASTER - The ball traveled as if in slowmotion from behind the three-point line during the game's final seconds on Tuesday night, signifying the potential completion of a meltdown that started with the University of Antelope Valley ahead by double digits just moments earlier.
"What was going through my mind? Hoping that he missed," UAV guard Franky Teran said.
As the would-be-game-tying trey from Bethesda University's Justin Latham drew nothing but the top of the backboard and UAV corralled the rebound with 10 seconds to go, the Pioneers (7-7) were finally able to exhale in the midst of a wild 78-74 victory that was their sixth in their last seven games.
Behind Teran's career-high 26 points - the most ever scored by a Pioneer - UAV ultimately shook off a Flames team that came into the Pioneer Event Center with a 1-13 record.
The Pioneers needed every one of them in the end.
More>>
HS Football Player of the Year: It's Nathaniel's house
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
Dec. 26, 2015
PALMDALE - The game's final seconds ticked down as Nathaniel Myles found himself running full speed toward Eastside's edge of the end zone as a pack of Lions chased after him during a slow-motion moment on Oct. 2
A sizable Golden League win streak - and the league title, as it turns out - depended on Myles crossing that pylon.
"In crucial situations, we had some games that we probably should have lost," Palmdale head coach Jeff Williams said. "Had it not been for (Myles) taking the team on his shoulders and saying, 'Hey, this is the direction we're going to go.'"
Once Myles' arm reached into the end zone as seemingly all of Eastside lunged at the Palmdale quarterback, it completed one of the most epic rallies the Antelope Valley had seen all year.
With Myles leading the way, the Falcons beat Eastside en route to a 10-0 regular season and extended their league winning streak to 32 games.
More>>
Dec. 26, 2015
PALMDALE - The game's final seconds ticked down as Nathaniel Myles found himself running full speed toward Eastside's edge of the end zone as a pack of Lions chased after him during a slow-motion moment on Oct. 2
A sizable Golden League win streak - and the league title, as it turns out - depended on Myles crossing that pylon.
"In crucial situations, we had some games that we probably should have lost," Palmdale head coach Jeff Williams said. "Had it not been for (Myles) taking the team on his shoulders and saying, 'Hey, this is the direction we're going to go.'"
Once Myles' arm reached into the end zone as seemingly all of Eastside lunged at the Palmdale quarterback, it completed one of the most epic rallies the Antelope Valley had seen all year.
With Myles leading the way, the Falcons beat Eastside en route to a 10-0 regular season and extended their league winning streak to 32 games.
More>>
HS Soccer: Lions roar back for 2-2 tie vs. Falcons
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
Dec. 8, 2015
PALMDALE - While the final scoreboard showed a 2-2 tie between Palmdale and Eastside on Monday night, there was a clear victor following the chilly Golden League opener.
"We don't like the tie," Eastside head coach David Butzke said. "We're not happy about it, but we'll definitely build on this progress today."
After rallying from two goals down in the second half, the Lions (1-3-2, 0-0-1 GL) liked the tie a lot more than the Falcons (2-0-2, 0-0-1).
Benny Ibarra scored on a penalty kick in the 47th minute and Omar Martinez's goal off a cross from left wing Robin Rodriguez in the 69th completed the comeback for the Lions, whom up until Ibarra's goal had seen few clear scoring chances.
More>>
Dec. 8, 2015
PALMDALE - While the final scoreboard showed a 2-2 tie between Palmdale and Eastside on Monday night, there was a clear victor following the chilly Golden League opener.
"We don't like the tie," Eastside head coach David Butzke said. "We're not happy about it, but we'll definitely build on this progress today."
After rallying from two goals down in the second half, the Lions (1-3-2, 0-0-1 GL) liked the tie a lot more than the Falcons (2-0-2, 0-0-1).
Benny Ibarra scored on a penalty kick in the 47th minute and Omar Martinez's goal off a cross from left wing Robin Rodriguez in the 69th completed the comeback for the Lions, whom up until Ibarra's goal had seen few clear scoring chances.
More>>
HS Football: Champ Palmdale leaves no doubt in romp of AV
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
Nov. 6, 2015
LANCASTER - All the hype of a matchup with enough plots to be deemed the game of the year was squashed shortly after halftime on Friday night.
Along with it was Antelope Valley, victim of an exclamation-point performance by Palmdale in a 35-14 shellacking that gave the Falcons their fourth consecutive Golden League championship.
"10-0, Golden League champions," Palmdale senior quarterback Nathaniel Myles said. "You can't ask for nothing better."
In a game of two teams with perfect league marks on the final day of the regular season, the Falcons (10-0, 7-0 GL) did what they've been doing for now 32 consecutive games dating back to 2011: drive a stake through the hearts of their opponents.
This one came by way of a lot of Richard Newton, who rushed for 217 yards and two touchdowns, and a remarkable defensive game plan that limited the best offensive team in the GL to its lowest offensive output since Week 3.
More>>
Nov. 6, 2015
LANCASTER - All the hype of a matchup with enough plots to be deemed the game of the year was squashed shortly after halftime on Friday night.
Along with it was Antelope Valley, victim of an exclamation-point performance by Palmdale in a 35-14 shellacking that gave the Falcons their fourth consecutive Golden League championship.
"10-0, Golden League champions," Palmdale senior quarterback Nathaniel Myles said. "You can't ask for nothing better."
In a game of two teams with perfect league marks on the final day of the regular season, the Falcons (10-0, 7-0 GL) did what they've been doing for now 32 consecutive games dating back to 2011: drive a stake through the hearts of their opponents.
This one came by way of a lot of Richard Newton, who rushed for 217 yards and two touchdowns, and a remarkable defensive game plan that limited the best offensive team in the GL to its lowest offensive output since Week 3.
More>>
HS Football: Palmdale, AV meet in game worth a league championship
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
Nov. 6, 2015
LANCASTER - A rivalry, a streak, a Golden League championship and - last but not least - perfection.
All of that is on the line tonight at 7 at Antelope Valley High, where the high-octane Antelopes welcome the three-time defending league champion Palmdale.
And so much more.
"For us, it's everything," Falcons running back Richard Newton said.
That feeling is echoed and enhanced by Antelope Valley (7-2, 6-0 GL), one of seven GL schools that's lived in the shadows of the Falcons (9-0, 6-0) for the past three years.
More>>
Nov. 6, 2015
LANCASTER - A rivalry, a streak, a Golden League championship and - last but not least - perfection.
All of that is on the line tonight at 7 at Antelope Valley High, where the high-octane Antelopes welcome the three-time defending league champion Palmdale.
And so much more.
"For us, it's everything," Falcons running back Richard Newton said.
That feeling is echoed and enhanced by Antelope Valley (7-2, 6-0 GL), one of seven GL schools that's lived in the shadows of the Falcons (9-0, 6-0) for the past three years.
More>>
HS Football: Highland snaps Quartz Hill's streak
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
Oct. 17, 2015
PALMDALE - The football was still in the air - representing the Rebels' last gasp at doing what they've been to the Bulldogs for the past four years - just as the scoreboard buzzer went off late Friday night at Highland High.
As the pass fell incomplete around the Bulldogs' 20-yard line, the coverage of the last-second play that preserved Highland's 27-24 Golden League win over Quartz Hill belonged not just to Bulldog defenders, but also to the student section that had rushed the field before Rebels quarterback Matthew Tago had even released his last-second prayer.
"I just looked over and I wasn't expecting that, " Highland coach David Stowe said of the student mob. "I saw people running and I was like, 'What are you doing? What are you doing?'"
More>>
Oct. 17, 2015
PALMDALE - The football was still in the air - representing the Rebels' last gasp at doing what they've been to the Bulldogs for the past four years - just as the scoreboard buzzer went off late Friday night at Highland High.
As the pass fell incomplete around the Bulldogs' 20-yard line, the coverage of the last-second play that preserved Highland's 27-24 Golden League win over Quartz Hill belonged not just to Bulldog defenders, but also to the student section that had rushed the field before Rebels quarterback Matthew Tago had even released his last-second prayer.
"I just looked over and I wasn't expecting that, " Highland coach David Stowe said of the student mob. "I saw people running and I was like, 'What are you doing? What are you doing?'"
More>>
HS Football: Quartz Hill, Highland renew rivalry
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
Oct. 16, 2015
PALMDALE — Someone's been on Quartz Hill running back Manny Thomas' mind all week.
It's not exactly a special someone, although the junior has been feeling butterflies of sorts since Monday.
"It's hard to sleep, it's hard to eat," he said. "Because all I think about is Highland right now.
"I wish every day it could be Friday already so I can just go out there and show them what I can do."
In a no-love-lost rivalry game between Highland and Quartz Hill tonight, the feeling is reciprocated by the Bulldogs (1-5, 1-2 GL), who'll be looking to snap a four-game losing streak to the Rebels (2-4, 1-2).
More>>
Oct. 16, 2015
PALMDALE — Someone's been on Quartz Hill running back Manny Thomas' mind all week.
It's not exactly a special someone, although the junior has been feeling butterflies of sorts since Monday.
"It's hard to sleep, it's hard to eat," he said. "Because all I think about is Highland right now.
"I wish every day it could be Friday already so I can just go out there and show them what I can do."
In a no-love-lost rivalry game between Highland and Quartz Hill tonight, the feeling is reciprocated by the Bulldogs (1-5, 1-2 GL), who'll be looking to snap a four-game losing streak to the Rebels (2-4, 1-2).
More>>
Remember the name: Palmdale QB Myles making his mark
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
Oct. 13, 2015
PALMDALE — As a newborn, he went without a legal name for weeks. His dad just nicknamed him "Poppy."
"Eventually they gave me 'Nathaniel,' but 'Poppy' just stuck with me since," said Nathaniel Myles, Palmdale's senior starting quarterback.
But whether they call him Nathaniel or "Poppy" isn't what matters to the three-year starter. What the senior cares about is making sure no one ever forgets his name once he's departed.
"I just want to be remembered," Myles said. "I don't want my name to be forgotten."
As the featured player on a Palmdale team full of talent, Myles - whose nickname doesn't have any significance behind it - has gotten off to a great start in making 2015 an unforgettable season for the Falcons, although it's come in a bit of an unorthodox way.
More>>
Oct. 13, 2015
PALMDALE — As a newborn, he went without a legal name for weeks. His dad just nicknamed him "Poppy."
"Eventually they gave me 'Nathaniel,' but 'Poppy' just stuck with me since," said Nathaniel Myles, Palmdale's senior starting quarterback.
But whether they call him Nathaniel or "Poppy" isn't what matters to the three-year starter. What the senior cares about is making sure no one ever forgets his name once he's departed.
"I just want to be remembered," Myles said. "I don't want my name to be forgotten."
As the featured player on a Palmdale team full of talent, Myles - whose nickname doesn't have any significance behind it - has gotten off to a great start in making 2015 an unforgettable season for the Falcons, although it's come in a bit of an unorthodox way.
More>>
HS Football: Palmdale finds way to stun Eastside, keep streak alive
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
Oct. 2, 2015
LANCASTER - Somehow, someway, Eastside managed to keep its head up following Friday night's 26-25 soul-crushing defeat at the hands of nemesis Palmdale.
The way the Lions, who blew a 19-0 lead, were able to keep their composure was perplexing. The same could be said about the way the Falcons pulled off their 27th consecutive Golden League victory.
"I think it's the will to win, it's embedded in them," Palmdale head coach Jeff Williams said. "They found a way to win."
Down 25-13 after Eastside quarterback Jordan Acosta connected with Tyrik Wilson for a 78-yard touchdown pass with five minutes left in the fourth quarter, it looked as if Palmdale (5-0, 2-0 GL) would suffer its first-ever loss to the Lions (3-2, 1-1).
But with two touchdowns inside the three-minute mark, the Falcons added a ninth win to their record against stunned Eastside.
More>>
Oct. 2, 2015
LANCASTER - Somehow, someway, Eastside managed to keep its head up following Friday night's 26-25 soul-crushing defeat at the hands of nemesis Palmdale.
The way the Lions, who blew a 19-0 lead, were able to keep their composure was perplexing. The same could be said about the way the Falcons pulled off their 27th consecutive Golden League victory.
"I think it's the will to win, it's embedded in them," Palmdale head coach Jeff Williams said. "They found a way to win."
Down 25-13 after Eastside quarterback Jordan Acosta connected with Tyrik Wilson for a 78-yard touchdown pass with five minutes left in the fourth quarter, it looked as if Palmdale (5-0, 2-0 GL) would suffer its first-ever loss to the Lions (3-2, 1-1).
But with two touchdowns inside the three-minute mark, the Falcons added a ninth win to their record against stunned Eastside.
More>>
Mavs jump all over JetHawks early, end their season
Sept. 11, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
ADELANTO — An unsuspecting Derek Fisher was on deck during the third inning Friday night as teammate Alex Bregman swung at a pitch from Mavs reliever Jose Monegro and fouled it back directly toward him.
The ball just missed Fisher, hitting the net behind home plate instead, and the outfielder quickly skipped off toward the dugout, stunned but feeling fortunate to dodge harm.
On the field, the JetHawks didn’t achieve much of that during a 12-5 Cal League South Division Mini-Series Game 3 loss that got out of hand in a hurry and ended the 2014 champions’ season.
“Tonight we just came up short,” JetHawks third baseman J.D. Davis said after the end of the best-of-three series. “They came out swinging, scored 11 runs on us real quick and their pitching staff just held us. We couldn’t get rhythm going or anything. Hats off to them.”
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
ADELANTO — An unsuspecting Derek Fisher was on deck during the third inning Friday night as teammate Alex Bregman swung at a pitch from Mavs reliever Jose Monegro and fouled it back directly toward him.
The ball just missed Fisher, hitting the net behind home plate instead, and the outfielder quickly skipped off toward the dugout, stunned but feeling fortunate to dodge harm.
On the field, the JetHawks didn’t achieve much of that during a 12-5 Cal League South Division Mini-Series Game 3 loss that got out of hand in a hurry and ended the 2014 champions’ season.
“Tonight we just came up short,” JetHawks third baseman J.D. Davis said after the end of the best-of-three series. “They came out swinging, scored 11 runs on us real quick and their pitching staff just held us. We couldn’t get rhythm going or anything. Hats off to them.”
More>>
JetHawks rally from early deficit in playoff opener vs. HD
Sept. 9, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA
Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER — As J.D. Davis observed the baseball he’d just obliterated fly toward and beyond the center field wall, the JetHawks third baseman gripped the top of his bat and tossed it aside almost in disgusted delight.
It was the bottom of the seventh inning of Game 1 of the best-of-three California League South Division Mini-Series against High Desert on Wednesday night, and the two-run long ball gave the JetHawks their first lead of the night en route to a 9-7 victory.
“It was just a little frustration from me and for the team,” Davis said. “We were chipping away, but we weren’t getting that big hit … for us, we lead the league in home runs and we all wanted that big hit.”
With one of Davis’ colossal swings, the JetHawks completed a tremendous climb in a game worth a season of emotions that ultimately only mean one thing: Lancaster leads the series 1-0 and is a win away from the Division Finals.
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA
Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER — As J.D. Davis observed the baseball he’d just obliterated fly toward and beyond the center field wall, the JetHawks third baseman gripped the top of his bat and tossed it aside almost in disgusted delight.
It was the bottom of the seventh inning of Game 1 of the best-of-three California League South Division Mini-Series against High Desert on Wednesday night, and the two-run long ball gave the JetHawks their first lead of the night en route to a 9-7 victory.
“It was just a little frustration from me and for the team,” Davis said. “We were chipping away, but we weren’t getting that big hit … for us, we lead the league in home runs and we all wanted that big hit.”
With one of Davis’ colossal swings, the JetHawks completed a tremendous climb in a game worth a season of emotions that ultimately only mean one thing: Lancaster leads the series 1-0 and is a win away from the Division Finals.
More>>
Palmdale aims to take showdown vs. Valencia
Sept. 4, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE - Palmdale and Valencia are kings of their leagues, with the Falcons back-to-back-to-back Golden League champions who haven't lost a league game since 2011, while the Vikings have won six straight Foothill League titles.
When it comes to dominance in the rivalry between the best of the Antelope Valley and Santa Clarita Valley, however, the Vikings (0-0) have treated the Falcons (1-0) very much like a league rival, winning seven of the last eight yearly matchups.
"We haven't beat them in I don't know how long," Palmdale sophomore Richard Newton said.
That would be since Aug. 31, 2012, when a 35-21 win at Valencia snapped a five-game losing streak in the series for the Falcons.
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE - Palmdale and Valencia are kings of their leagues, with the Falcons back-to-back-to-back Golden League champions who haven't lost a league game since 2011, while the Vikings have won six straight Foothill League titles.
When it comes to dominance in the rivalry between the best of the Antelope Valley and Santa Clarita Valley, however, the Vikings (0-0) have treated the Falcons (1-0) very much like a league rival, winning seven of the last eight yearly matchups.
"We haven't beat them in I don't know how long," Palmdale sophomore Richard Newton said.
That would be since Aug. 31, 2012, when a 35-21 win at Valencia snapped a five-game losing streak in the series for the Falcons.
More>>
JetHawks clinch playoff spot with dismantling of Storm
Aug. 28, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — As the ninth Lancaster run of the night scored in the third inning on Friday, the fans could almost smell their free tacos.
And as the JetHawks pounded away at Lake Elsinore, the scent of postseason play was even stronger.
“We kind of felt it even before the game started. We all felt good,” JetHawks third baseman J.D. Davis said.
Needing either a win or an Inland Empire loss to reach the postseason for a franchise-record fourth straight time, the defending California League champion JetHawks took matters into their own hands and crushed a lackadaisical Storm 16-4 to clinch their playoff ticket.
With Davis and Chase McDonald homering, Alex Bregman going 4-for-6 and every one of the JetHawks (33-28, 70-61) getting at least one hit, the final smell of a 19-hit night was that of champagne as the Lancaster players erupted in celebration shortly after the game in a locker room thoroughly protected with plastic sheets.
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — As the ninth Lancaster run of the night scored in the third inning on Friday, the fans could almost smell their free tacos.
And as the JetHawks pounded away at Lake Elsinore, the scent of postseason play was even stronger.
“We kind of felt it even before the game started. We all felt good,” JetHawks third baseman J.D. Davis said.
Needing either a win or an Inland Empire loss to reach the postseason for a franchise-record fourth straight time, the defending California League champion JetHawks took matters into their own hands and crushed a lackadaisical Storm 16-4 to clinch their playoff ticket.
With Davis and Chase McDonald homering, Alex Bregman going 4-for-6 and every one of the JetHawks (33-28, 70-61) getting at least one hit, the final smell of a 19-hit night was that of champagne as the Lancaster players erupted in celebration shortly after the game in a locker room thoroughly protected with plastic sheets.
More>>
McDonald, Davis continue HR derby as JetHawks top Mavs
Aug. 9, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — J.D. Davis’ late streak of homers has been sort of rough on Chase McDonald.
So on Sunday, when McDonald tied Davis for the team lead in long balls with a solo shot to left in the fourth inning, there was pep in the step of the first baseman as he rounded the bases.
As it’s been the theme for the past week, however, McDonald’s bounce was short-lived.
“It lasted about 30 minutes and then I got it again,” said a grinning Davis, who homered for the sixth consecutive game in the fifth inning. “(McDonald) was all mad. I just smiled at him.”
In an 8-0 win that gave the JetHawks (20-23, 57-56) a series win over High Desert (22-18, 59-51), Davis and McDonald renewed a friendly competition, while the only individuals truly in distress hailed from Adelanto.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — J.D. Davis’ late streak of homers has been sort of rough on Chase McDonald.
So on Sunday, when McDonald tied Davis for the team lead in long balls with a solo shot to left in the fourth inning, there was pep in the step of the first baseman as he rounded the bases.
As it’s been the theme for the past week, however, McDonald’s bounce was short-lived.
“It lasted about 30 minutes and then I got it again,” said a grinning Davis, who homered for the sixth consecutive game in the fifth inning. “(McDonald) was all mad. I just smiled at him.”
In an 8-0 win that gave the JetHawks (20-23, 57-56) a series win over High Desert (22-18, 59-51), Davis and McDonald renewed a friendly competition, while the only individuals truly in distress hailed from Adelanto.
More>>
McDonald, Davis go deep as JetHawks down Mavs again
Aug. 7, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — A visibly frustrated Chase McDonald had to bite his tongue Friday night after striking out during his first at-bat on a pitch he felt was a ball and that left two JetHawks on base.
During his next time at the plate during the third inning, the first baseman took his disappointment out on a baseball he sent all the way onto Avenue I beyond The Hangar’s left-field wall, the first homer of the night during the JetHawks’ 8-5 win over High Desert.
“It felt pretty good, getting things back on track, “ said McDonald, who two nights before had suffered a first-inning ejection after disagreeing on a strikeout. “Our team is back on track right now.”
This coming just two nights after the JetHawks, who have won consecutive games for the first time since July 26-27, seemed to have hit rock bottom.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — A visibly frustrated Chase McDonald had to bite his tongue Friday night after striking out during his first at-bat on a pitch he felt was a ball and that left two JetHawks on base.
During his next time at the plate during the third inning, the first baseman took his disappointment out on a baseball he sent all the way onto Avenue I beyond The Hangar’s left-field wall, the first homer of the night during the JetHawks’ 8-5 win over High Desert.
“It felt pretty good, getting things back on track, “ said McDonald, who two nights before had suffered a first-inning ejection after disagreeing on a strikeout. “Our team is back on track right now.”
This coming just two nights after the JetHawks, who have won consecutive games for the first time since July 26-27, seemed to have hit rock bottom.
More>>
JetHawks rally to get much-needed win vs. High Desert
Aug. 6, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — The JetHawks’ downward spiral of late had started seven days before in Adelanto, where the Mavericks used a four-game sweep of Lancaster to propel themselves to the top of the Cal League South standings.
“We went to their place, we got swept,” JetHawks third baseman J.D. Davis said. “But we kind of made a point (Thursday) to be a little more focused.”
Behind 13 hits and seven shutout innings on Thursday night, the JetHawks (18-22, 55-55) made another point during a 9-4 win over High Desert in the start of a four-game series: they’re not done just yet.
Hindered by poor pitching during a recent 1-6 stretch, the JetHawks shook off a rough two innings from starter Kevin Comer on Thursday to rally for a much-needed win against a team that came into the night 12-2 over its last 14 games.
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — The JetHawks’ downward spiral of late had started seven days before in Adelanto, where the Mavericks used a four-game sweep of Lancaster to propel themselves to the top of the Cal League South standings.
“We went to their place, we got swept,” JetHawks third baseman J.D. Davis said. “But we kind of made a point (Thursday) to be a little more focused.”
Behind 13 hits and seven shutout innings on Thursday night, the JetHawks (18-22, 55-55) made another point during a 9-4 win over High Desert in the start of a four-game series: they’re not done just yet.
Hindered by poor pitching during a recent 1-6 stretch, the JetHawks shook off a rough two innings from starter Kevin Comer on Thursday to rally for a much-needed win against a team that came into the night 12-2 over its last 14 games.
More>>
JetHawks fall to Cal League North-worst Blaze in forgettable night
Aug. 5, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — As Ruben Castro swung and missed on a one-strike pitch and the bat escaped his hands and landed against the JetHawks’ dugout netting for a third time on Wednesday night, the catcher’s inability to hold on to the club drew some laughter from the stands.
On the very next pitch, Castro again swung and lost the bat. This time it landed in the stands and nearly hit a fan, and the retired batter walked back to the dugout in distress.
No laughs were had after this one. Truth be told, very little was amusing for the JetHawks on a night where the Cal League North-worst Blaze handled them in a 12-5 defeat that sent Lancaster to its 17th loss in its last 24 games.
“It’s just frustrating, it really is,” said JetHawks third baseman J.D. Davis, who hit his 18th homer of the season in the rubber game of the three-game set. “No one likes to lose. We all want to win, but it’s just baseball.”
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — As Ruben Castro swung and missed on a one-strike pitch and the bat escaped his hands and landed against the JetHawks’ dugout netting for a third time on Wednesday night, the catcher’s inability to hold on to the club drew some laughter from the stands.
On the very next pitch, Castro again swung and lost the bat. This time it landed in the stands and nearly hit a fan, and the retired batter walked back to the dugout in distress.
No laughs were had after this one. Truth be told, very little was amusing for the JetHawks on a night where the Cal League North-worst Blaze handled them in a 12-5 defeat that sent Lancaster to its 17th loss in its last 24 games.
“It’s just frustrating, it really is,” said JetHawks third baseman J.D. Davis, who hit his 18th homer of the season in the rubber game of the three-game set. “No one likes to lose. We all want to win, but it’s just baseball.”
More>>
SS Bregman dazzles as JetHawks beat Quakes
July 29, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER -- As JetHawks shortstop Alex Bregman, the No. 2 overall pick of last June’s MLB Draft, approached the locker room after a 4-2 win over Rancho Cucamonga on Wednesday night, teammate James Ramsay pointed at him and called him “unbelievable.”
Moments later, another teammate, outfielder Derek Fisher, deemed him “incredible.”
“(Bregman) is here for a reason as fast as he got here,” Fisher said.
Two starts into his JetHawks career, the top prospect in the Houston farm system already has multiple fans in the Lancaster clubhouse. Even as he has yet to get a hit.
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER -- As JetHawks shortstop Alex Bregman, the No. 2 overall pick of last June’s MLB Draft, approached the locker room after a 4-2 win over Rancho Cucamonga on Wednesday night, teammate James Ramsay pointed at him and called him “unbelievable.”
Moments later, another teammate, outfielder Derek Fisher, deemed him “incredible.”
“(Bregman) is here for a reason as fast as he got here,” Fisher said.
Two starts into his JetHawks career, the top prospect in the Houston farm system already has multiple fans in the Lancaster clubhouse. Even as he has yet to get a hit.
More>>
JetHawks' Nottingham, Mengden react to trade to Athletics
July 23, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Carrying their belongings in their Astros bags, Jacob Nottingham and Daniel Mengden made an unthinkable walk from one end of The Hangar’s outfield to the other on Thursday afternoon.
“It’s kind of weird,” Mengden said. “We were both talking, ‘Does it feel real yet?’”
Speaking from the Ports clubhouse near left field after the Astros traded both prospects to the Athletics in exchange for Oakland lefty Scott Kazmir, Mengden and Nottingham were still trying to cope with the reality of having to get ready to face the JetHawks instead of suiting up for them.
“Just shocked,” said Nottingham, a catcher who came up from Low-A Quad Cities on June 29. “Mixed feelings. I made a lot of good friends and now I’m with the A’s and I’m excited. I’ll see where it takes me.”
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Carrying their belongings in their Astros bags, Jacob Nottingham and Daniel Mengden made an unthinkable walk from one end of The Hangar’s outfield to the other on Thursday afternoon.
“It’s kind of weird,” Mengden said. “We were both talking, ‘Does it feel real yet?’”
Speaking from the Ports clubhouse near left field after the Astros traded both prospects to the Athletics in exchange for Oakland lefty Scott Kazmir, Mengden and Nottingham were still trying to cope with the reality of having to get ready to face the JetHawks instead of suiting up for them.
“Just shocked,” said Nottingham, a catcher who came up from Low-A Quad Cities on June 29. “Mixed feelings. I made a lot of good friends and now I’m with the A’s and I’m excited. I’ll see where it takes me.”
More>>
JetHawks beat former teammates in 6-1 win over Ports
July 23, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — The JetHawks returned home shaken up this week, having dropped five games in a row, including a four-game sweep at the hands of San Jose, and going 1-6 during a seven-game road trip.
Set to attempt to put their struggles in the rearview mirror beginning with a four-game series vs. Stockton, Thursday started with more turmoil for the JetHawks, who lost catcher Jacob Nottingham and right-hander Daniel Mengden in a trade that landed Houston pitcher Scott Kazmir from Oakland while sending the pair to the Ports' clubhouse.
“It was a big loss,” JetHawks designated hitter Ronnie Mitchell said. “But we got a lot of guys on the team that can step up to the plate and keep on grinding and pushing.”
For the 16th game in a row, Mitchell did his part, and so did the pitching staff in a 6-1 win that stopped the JetHawks’ bleeding and put a happy ending to a difficult day in Lancaster.
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — The JetHawks returned home shaken up this week, having dropped five games in a row, including a four-game sweep at the hands of San Jose, and going 1-6 during a seven-game road trip.
Set to attempt to put their struggles in the rearview mirror beginning with a four-game series vs. Stockton, Thursday started with more turmoil for the JetHawks, who lost catcher Jacob Nottingham and right-hander Daniel Mengden in a trade that landed Houston pitcher Scott Kazmir from Oakland while sending the pair to the Ports' clubhouse.
“It was a big loss,” JetHawks designated hitter Ronnie Mitchell said. “But we got a lot of guys on the team that can step up to the plate and keep on grinding and pushing.”
For the 16th game in a row, Mitchell did his part, and so did the pitching staff in a 6-1 win that stopped the JetHawks’ bleeding and put a happy ending to a difficult day in Lancaster.
More>>
'Voice of the JetHawks' Schwartz living dream, calling titles
July 18, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - A thrilled 23-year-old in his first year as the voice of the JetHawks, Jason Schwartz invited family to his radio booth for a Fourth of July broadcast in 2012.
Chance paid the Schwartzes a bad trick on that fateful day, as a foul ball from Visalia's Jon Griffin traveled up and over the netting behind home plate and down and through the booth's window, hitting Jason's grandma.
"Literally it's the only foul ball that has ever come straight through the window since I've been here," said Schwartz, now in his fourth year with Lancaster. "It just happened that it hit my grandma."
A strong woman who'd turned 90 three days before, Jason's grandma survived the unlikely strike to her arm without major complications. Signed by Griffin after the game, the foul ball now sits on her bookshelf.
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - A thrilled 23-year-old in his first year as the voice of the JetHawks, Jason Schwartz invited family to his radio booth for a Fourth of July broadcast in 2012.
Chance paid the Schwartzes a bad trick on that fateful day, as a foul ball from Visalia's Jon Griffin traveled up and over the netting behind home plate and down and through the booth's window, hitting Jason's grandma.
"Literally it's the only foul ball that has ever come straight through the window since I've been here," said Schwartz, now in his fourth year with Lancaster. "It just happened that it hit my grandma."
A strong woman who'd turned 90 three days before, Jason's grandma survived the unlikely strike to her arm without major complications. Signed by Griffin after the game, the foul ball now sits on her bookshelf.
More>>
Cold bats, errors doom JetHawks in loss to Rancho
June 5, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — All JetHawks starter Troy Scribner needed was one final out to depart feeling like a rock star of sorts on Friday night.
In his way stood a 6-foot-3, 245-pound Dodger from Cuba on his second day of a rehab assignment.
Yeah, that one.
“I tried to throw an outside fastball and I missed over the plate and he did what he does,” Scribner said of his one pitch gone awry against Yasiel Puig during a 4-1 JetHawks’ loss to the Quakes (33-21). “I’m not going to think on it too much.”
Scribner’s line prior to Puig’s two-out at-bat in the fifth inning: three hits, two walks, two runs (0 earned) and four strikeouts.
After Puig sent the righty’s pitch beyond center field to nearly Avenue I, Scribner had his first earned run of the night.
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — All JetHawks starter Troy Scribner needed was one final out to depart feeling like a rock star of sorts on Friday night.
In his way stood a 6-foot-3, 245-pound Dodger from Cuba on his second day of a rehab assignment.
Yeah, that one.
“I tried to throw an outside fastball and I missed over the plate and he did what he does,” Scribner said of his one pitch gone awry against Yasiel Puig during a 4-1 JetHawks’ loss to the Quakes (33-21). “I’m not going to think on it too much.”
Scribner’s line prior to Puig’s two-out at-bat in the fifth inning: three hits, two walks, two runs (0 earned) and four strikeouts.
After Puig sent the righty’s pitch beyond center field to nearly Avenue I, Scribner had his first earned run of the night.
More>>
JetHawks fall in buzz-filled game vs. Puig, Quakes
June 4, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — The JetHawks tried to downplay it, but the buzz going into Thursday night had Yasiel Puig written all over it.
Suiting up for the Quakes, the Dodgers’ High-A affiliate and also Lancaster’s enemy in the California League South, the All-Star outfielder spent the first day of his rehab assignment in right field at The Hangar, close to a multitude of fans wearing blue and calling for his autograph.
“That was pretty crazy,” JetHawks starting pitcher Evan Grills said. “We haven’t had a crowd like that since Opening Day I don’t think. Good to have a crowd like that, though. Made it more exciting.”
The fans, which sold out the park, got their Puig fix. Their JetHawks' one, however, was spoiled by Rancho, which extended its lead in the standings to four games with an 8-5 win in the start of a four-game set.
On the disabled list since April 26 with a strained left hamstring, Puig went 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored before exiting in the eighth inning.
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — The JetHawks tried to downplay it, but the buzz going into Thursday night had Yasiel Puig written all over it.
Suiting up for the Quakes, the Dodgers’ High-A affiliate and also Lancaster’s enemy in the California League South, the All-Star outfielder spent the first day of his rehab assignment in right field at The Hangar, close to a multitude of fans wearing blue and calling for his autograph.
“That was pretty crazy,” JetHawks starting pitcher Evan Grills said. “We haven’t had a crowd like that since Opening Day I don’t think. Good to have a crowd like that, though. Made it more exciting.”
The fans, which sold out the park, got their Puig fix. Their JetHawks' one, however, was spoiled by Rancho, which extended its lead in the standings to four games with an 8-5 win in the start of a four-game set.
On the disabled list since April 26 with a strained left hamstring, Puig went 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored before exiting in the eighth inning.
More>>
Wik has rough night in JetHawks' 7-5 loss vs. IE
May 22, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — One could only imagine the feeling in the Mavericks' locker room on Thursday night after the JetHawks mercilessly dismantled them in a 22-5 win.
But it was probably more or less the way JetHawks third baseman Marc Wik felt after his rough Friday night during Lancaster’s 7-5 loss against Inland Empire.
“You can’t really describe it. It kind of eats you up inside,” Wik said.
Filling in for injured starter J.D. Davis, Wik had an unfortunate pair of defensive innings that — while not deciding the game — made for an uphill battle the JetHawks would not win.
The final boxscore showed two errors in Lancaster’s line, both belonged to Wik and turned into two unearned runs.
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — One could only imagine the feeling in the Mavericks' locker room on Thursday night after the JetHawks mercilessly dismantled them in a 22-5 win.
But it was probably more or less the way JetHawks third baseman Marc Wik felt after his rough Friday night during Lancaster’s 7-5 loss against Inland Empire.
“You can’t really describe it. It kind of eats you up inside,” Wik said.
Filling in for injured starter J.D. Davis, Wik had an unfortunate pair of defensive innings that — while not deciding the game — made for an uphill battle the JetHawks would not win.
The final boxscore showed two errors in Lancaster’s line, both belonged to Wik and turned into two unearned runs.
More>>
JetHawks' offense explodes in 22-5 obliteration of HD
May 21, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — It was only the third inning on Thursday night at The Hangar, and the home fans were already guaranteed free tacos.
In a cold, windy night, the JetHawks hadn't even hit a home run, yet they had scored 10 runs one out into the third against High Desert. Two outs later, they had somehow upstaged an explosive second frame in which they batted around and scored seven runs.
“We came out aggressive, especially early in the game, which is the most important part of the game,” JetHawks manager Omar Lopez said.
After a nine-run third frame where the JetHakws sent 13 batters to the plate and outfielder Danry Vasquez picked up two hits, the exclamation point of an emphatic 22-5 win against High Desert, things were simply out of control.
Nearly two hours had elapsed since the first pitch was thrown, and Lancaster (21-20) had sent 32 batters to the plate and led 18-4.
“We needed a game like that, we needed to break out, score some runs,” said JetHawks designated hitter A.J. Reed, who went 3-for-6 with a double and a homer, his 11th of the season, and four RBIs.
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — It was only the third inning on Thursday night at The Hangar, and the home fans were already guaranteed free tacos.
In a cold, windy night, the JetHawks hadn't even hit a home run, yet they had scored 10 runs one out into the third against High Desert. Two outs later, they had somehow upstaged an explosive second frame in which they batted around and scored seven runs.
“We came out aggressive, especially early in the game, which is the most important part of the game,” JetHawks manager Omar Lopez said.
After a nine-run third frame where the JetHakws sent 13 batters to the plate and outfielder Danry Vasquez picked up two hits, the exclamation point of an emphatic 22-5 win against High Desert, things were simply out of control.
Nearly two hours had elapsed since the first pitch was thrown, and Lancaster (21-20) had sent 32 batters to the plate and led 18-4.
“We needed a game like that, we needed to break out, score some runs,” said JetHawks designated hitter A.J. Reed, who went 3-for-6 with a double and a homer, his 11th of the season, and four RBIs.
More>>
JetHawks: Ramsay plays hero twice against Lake Elsinore
LANCASTER — A hero hidden in the No. 9 batter’s spot, JetHawks right fielder James Ramsay struggled against Lake Elsinore for the majority of Friday night.
A game-tying two-run homer and a walk-off RBI double later, Ramsay couldn’t hide if he tried.
“Once (Brian Holberton) scored, I was like, ‘Here come the floodgates,’” said Ramsay, who tied the game in the ninth and walked off in the 10th against Lake Elsinore in a 7-6 win. “So I see (all my teammates) coming and I was like, ‘Oh man, this is going to be a madhouse.’
“I’m just glad nobody got hurt.”
Nobody except for the Storm (15-14), who saw their five-game win streak snapped just as the JetHawks (14-15) extended theirs to three.
Following five consecutive innings in which the JetHawks totaled one hit (a Brett Phillips’ two-out single in the seventh), they finally got in business in the ninth.
More>>
A game-tying two-run homer and a walk-off RBI double later, Ramsay couldn’t hide if he tried.
“Once (Brian Holberton) scored, I was like, ‘Here come the floodgates,’” said Ramsay, who tied the game in the ninth and walked off in the 10th against Lake Elsinore in a 7-6 win. “So I see (all my teammates) coming and I was like, ‘Oh man, this is going to be a madhouse.’
“I’m just glad nobody got hurt.”
Nobody except for the Storm (15-14), who saw their five-game win streak snapped just as the JetHawks (14-15) extended theirs to three.
Following five consecutive innings in which the JetHawks totaled one hit (a Brett Phillips’ two-out single in the seventh), they finally got in business in the ninth.
More>>
JetHawks hustle, take advantage of Modesto miscues in wild win
April 24, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — JetHawks center fielder Brett Phillips hit an inside-the-park home run in the second inning against Modesto to put his team up 5-1 on Friday night.
By the eighth inning, Nuts second baseman Michael Benjamin had found a way to top the speedy Phillips, blasting a three-run shot, his second of the night and fourth of the series, beyond the left-field wall to give his team a 10-6 lead.
But oddly enough, the biggest play of the night during the JetHawks’ wild 11-10 win came on a simple grounder from Jobduan Morales.
“I saw (the third baseman) caught it, but I just tried to run hard,” Morales said.
Trailing 10-9 with the bases loaded and one out, Morales hit a ball near third base that was caught and sent to second base for what looked like the start of a routine double play.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — JetHawks center fielder Brett Phillips hit an inside-the-park home run in the second inning against Modesto to put his team up 5-1 on Friday night.
By the eighth inning, Nuts second baseman Michael Benjamin had found a way to top the speedy Phillips, blasting a three-run shot, his second of the night and fourth of the series, beyond the left-field wall to give his team a 10-6 lead.
But oddly enough, the biggest play of the night during the JetHawks’ wild 11-10 win came on a simple grounder from Jobduan Morales.
“I saw (the third baseman) caught it, but I just tried to run hard,” Morales said.
Trailing 10-9 with the bases loaded and one out, Morales hit a ball near third base that was caught and sent to second base for what looked like the start of a routine double play.
More>>
JetHawks' bullpen blown up in loss at home
By ALONSO TACANGA
Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER — By the time they finished a seven-game trek through High Desert and Rancho Cucamonga late Wednesday, the JetHawks had packed home 62 runs and five wins.
Quite an improvement over the 20 runs and three wins they had mustered over their previous seven games, all at The Hangar.
“Things just started to click,” JetHawks designated hitter Chase McDonald said. “It just so happened we were on the road."
The good news on Thursday against Modesto? The offense that hit nine home runs in a seven-day span made it into the bus back from Rancho, as the JetHawks put an emphatic end to its home run drought at Lancaster by blasting three in the start of a four-game series.
The bad news? It wasn’t enough to prevent a substandard night from the bullpen from dooming the JetHawks (8-7) in an 11-5 loss to the bottom-feeding Nuts (6-9).
More>>
Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER — By the time they finished a seven-game trek through High Desert and Rancho Cucamonga late Wednesday, the JetHawks had packed home 62 runs and five wins.
Quite an improvement over the 20 runs and three wins they had mustered over their previous seven games, all at The Hangar.
“Things just started to click,” JetHawks designated hitter Chase McDonald said. “It just so happened we were on the road."
The good news on Thursday against Modesto? The offense that hit nine home runs in a seven-day span made it into the bus back from Rancho, as the JetHawks put an emphatic end to its home run drought at Lancaster by blasting three in the start of a four-game series.
The bad news? It wasn’t enough to prevent a substandard night from the bullpen from dooming the JetHawks (8-7) in an 11-5 loss to the bottom-feeding Nuts (6-9).
More>>
Following injury, stars align for Paraclete's Kilcoyne
April 20, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - A few days after suffering a season-ending ACL injury during a game shortly before the start of the new year, a dejected Patrick Kilcoyne began to think of the unthinkable.
"After I had surgery, I was laying in bed for two weeks, recovering, waiting to get out, and I started thinking I may not play basketball again," the Paraclete senior said.
Lost in dark thoughts at the time, perhaps Kilcoyne's biggest handicap then wasn't the one that prevented him from using both his legs to get from place to place.
A lethal long-distance shooter on track to play college basketball, Kilcoyne's biggest hurdle became mental, an internal struggle to determine where to even go once he was back on his feet.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - A few days after suffering a season-ending ACL injury during a game shortly before the start of the new year, a dejected Patrick Kilcoyne began to think of the unthinkable.
"After I had surgery, I was laying in bed for two weeks, recovering, waiting to get out, and I started thinking I may not play basketball again," the Paraclete senior said.
Lost in dark thoughts at the time, perhaps Kilcoyne's biggest handicap then wasn't the one that prevented him from using both his legs to get from place to place.
A lethal long-distance shooter on track to play college basketball, Kilcoyne's biggest hurdle became mental, an internal struggle to determine where to even go once he was back on his feet.
More>>
JetHawks: Some firsts as Lancaster splits doubleheader vs. Ports
LANCASTER — The winds in the 25-40 mph range on Tuesday, the JetHawks got an unexpected day off when manager Omar Lopez and general manager William Thornhill decided against playing the second of three games against Stockton in gusty conditions.
“That’s a first,” JetHawks first baseman A.J. Reed said.
Playing a Wednesday doubleheader they went on to split, the JetHawks picked up a few more of those, and it didn’t include a home run. Although J.D. Davis came close.
But care they do not as long as they see improvement, which they did during a 5-1 win in the first of two seven-inning games against the Ports.
“It’s development,” JetHawks manager Omar Lopez said. “It’s not just about ‘we want to win.’ We want to win if we do everything the right way. That’s all.”
More>>
“That’s a first,” JetHawks first baseman A.J. Reed said.
Playing a Wednesday doubleheader they went on to split, the JetHawks picked up a few more of those, and it didn’t include a home run. Although J.D. Davis came close.
But care they do not as long as they see improvement, which they did during a 5-1 win in the first of two seven-inning games against the Ports.
“It’s development,” JetHawks manager Omar Lopez said. “It’s not just about ‘we want to win.’ We want to win if we do everything the right way. That’s all.”
More>>
For JetHawks, everything the matter in loss against Ports
April 13, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Just a few games into 2015, the JetHawks’ offensive struggles have been the theme of a season they hope ends in a second consecutive Cal League championship.
On Monday the subject matter of a new frustrating Lancaster defeat expanded.
“It was everything,” JetHawks manager Omar Lopez said.
The bats of a scoring-starved team finally came alive, but unfortunately for the JetHawks (2-3), it was the Ports’, who won the first of three games at The Hangar 13-4.
Stockton (2-3) did it by tagging six runs (five earned) in five innings on surprise JetHawks knuckleballer starter Blaine Sims and five more on reliever Randall Fant in the sixth frame. By then, the Ports were up 11-1 and even Kaboom looked upset.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Just a few games into 2015, the JetHawks’ offensive struggles have been the theme of a season they hope ends in a second consecutive Cal League championship.
On Monday the subject matter of a new frustrating Lancaster defeat expanded.
“It was everything,” JetHawks manager Omar Lopez said.
The bats of a scoring-starved team finally came alive, but unfortunately for the JetHawks (2-3), it was the Ports’, who won the first of three games at The Hangar 13-4.
Stockton (2-3) did it by tagging six runs (five earned) in five innings on surprise JetHawks knuckleballer starter Blaine Sims and five more on reliever Randall Fant in the sixth frame. By then, the Ports were up 11-1 and even Kaboom looked upset.
More>>
JetHawks: Feliz, offense struggle as Giants get shutout win
April 10, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — It was all going quite smoothly on Friday night for JetHawks starting pitcher Michael Feliz, the highly touted pitching prospect of the Astros.
Then, in a flash, it all went awry.
“Small mistakes,” said Feliz, who gave up four runs on eight hits with four strikeouts in 2 2/3 innings. “One doesn’t lose control, but one loses the game. It happens in baseball.”
But on a night where the JetHawks (1-1) couldn’t buy many hits during a 5-0 loss to the San Jose Giants (1-1), Feliz was hardly the only problem as Lancaster’s dreams of a 140-0 season came crashing down.
If you’re looking for a scapegoat for Feliz’s poor debut and the JetHawks only mustering five hits with three of their top four hitters going 0-for-12, Friday being only game No. 2 of the season is a good place to start.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — It was all going quite smoothly on Friday night for JetHawks starting pitcher Michael Feliz, the highly touted pitching prospect of the Astros.
Then, in a flash, it all went awry.
“Small mistakes,” said Feliz, who gave up four runs on eight hits with four strikeouts in 2 2/3 innings. “One doesn’t lose control, but one loses the game. It happens in baseball.”
But on a night where the JetHawks (1-1) couldn’t buy many hits during a 5-0 loss to the San Jose Giants (1-1), Feliz was hardly the only problem as Lancaster’s dreams of a 140-0 season came crashing down.
If you’re looking for a scapegoat for Feliz’s poor debut and the JetHawks only mustering five hits with three of their top four hitters going 0-for-12, Friday being only game No. 2 of the season is a good place to start.
More>>
JetHawks: Prospect Feliz an 'ace' to wach
April 9, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - When asked if he felt he was the "ace" of the JetHawks' pitching rotation, Dominican Republic native Michael Feliz, the Astros' top-rated prospect in Lancaster, looked puzzled.
A highly touted 21-year-old still working on mastering the English language, the term just escaped Feliz's ever-expanding Spanish-English mental dictionary.
"When I came (to America), I was barely 16 years old and it was a little difficult because I couldn't speak English," said Feliz, a hard-throwing right-hander who'll make his first start for the JetHawks on Friday. "That helped me to have to learn English to keep maturing to continue with my career."
For Feliz, the only JetHawk on the Astros' current 40-man roster, the language was just one of multiple barriers he still continues to overcome while he makes his way to the major leagues.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - When asked if he felt he was the "ace" of the JetHawks' pitching rotation, Dominican Republic native Michael Feliz, the Astros' top-rated prospect in Lancaster, looked puzzled.
A highly touted 21-year-old still working on mastering the English language, the term just escaped Feliz's ever-expanding Spanish-English mental dictionary.
"When I came (to America), I was barely 16 years old and it was a little difficult because I couldn't speak English," said Feliz, a hard-throwing right-hander who'll make his first start for the JetHawks on Friday. "That helped me to have to learn English to keep maturing to continue with my career."
For Feliz, the only JetHawk on the Astros' current 40-man roster, the language was just one of multiple barriers he still continues to overcome while he makes his way to the major leagues.
More>>
JetHawks: A.J., J.D. two of a kind in the infield
April 9, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — They were both drafted in the 2011 MLB Draft out of high school, but both decided not to sign and go to college instead. There, both excelled as two-way players who got new opportunities when the Houston Astros made them back-to-back draft selections in 2014.
As if their paths weren't parallel enough already, both of these brand new JetHawk infielders - whom each have initials as names - decided to share the same residence in Lancaster for the 2015 season.
"Unfortunately," third baseman J.D. Davis said in jest.
Less than a year into meeting each other after the Astros flew them into Houston to sign their first professional contracts, this is the kind of brotherly relationship first baseman A.J. Reed and Davis have.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — They were both drafted in the 2011 MLB Draft out of high school, but both decided not to sign and go to college instead. There, both excelled as two-way players who got new opportunities when the Houston Astros made them back-to-back draft selections in 2014.
As if their paths weren't parallel enough already, both of these brand new JetHawk infielders - whom each have initials as names - decided to share the same residence in Lancaster for the 2015 season.
"Unfortunately," third baseman J.D. Davis said in jest.
Less than a year into meeting each other after the Astros flew them into Houston to sign their first professional contracts, this is the kind of brotherly relationship first baseman A.J. Reed and Davis have.
More>>
BASEBALL: Highland rallies for payback win against Lancaster
April 3, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE — Two days after wasting a seemingly unwastable chance to take down Lancaster, Highland still felt the sting of heartbreak.
Sorrow, however, the Bulldogs felt not. Particularly not for the Eagles during a redemptive 8-5 Golden League win on Friday.
"They just decided it's not going to happen again." Highland coach Manuel Mobley said.
Just like during Wednesday's league opening-game, the Bulldogs (3-11, 1-1 GL) fell behind 4-0 after 3 innings.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE — Two days after wasting a seemingly unwastable chance to take down Lancaster, Highland still felt the sting of heartbreak.
Sorrow, however, the Bulldogs felt not. Particularly not for the Eagles during a redemptive 8-5 Golden League win on Friday.
"They just decided it's not going to happen again." Highland coach Manuel Mobley said.
Just like during Wednesday's league opening-game, the Bulldogs (3-11, 1-1 GL) fell behind 4-0 after 3 innings.
More>>
Boys Volleyball: His time finally here, Griggs leads Eastside past Lancaster
April 1, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — A talented sophomore in a team stacked with experienced seniors, Zane Griggs was told to wait for his turn by way of a demotion to junior varsity last year.
He could have whined and pouted. Few could have blamed him.
"I was OK with that," Griggs said.
Thanks in great part to the now-junior, who powered his way to 21 kills during Wednesday's 25-12, 25-17, 25-22 sweep of Lancaster, so are the 2015 Lions.
A season after an all-senior team led Eastside to a second consecutive Golden League championship, the new-look Lions look as dominant as their predecessors, improving to 4-0 in league play and all but putting to rest any notion that they might be in rebuilding mode.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — A talented sophomore in a team stacked with experienced seniors, Zane Griggs was told to wait for his turn by way of a demotion to junior varsity last year.
He could have whined and pouted. Few could have blamed him.
"I was OK with that," Griggs said.
Thanks in great part to the now-junior, who powered his way to 21 kills during Wednesday's 25-12, 25-17, 25-22 sweep of Lancaster, so are the 2015 Lions.
A season after an all-senior team led Eastside to a second consecutive Golden League championship, the new-look Lions look as dominant as their predecessors, improving to 4-0 in league play and all but putting to rest any notion that they might be in rebuilding mode.
More>>
Baseball: Pitchers' duel goes Paraclete's way
March 31, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Tuesday's game-saving play came to Paraclete starter Javahn Devers during the sixth inning much like the wind had all afternoon.
Fast and at his face.
"That was fortunate, I guess," he said.
Swift reflexes in place with runners at the corners, Devers caught Desert Christian junior Andrew Bayard's hard-hit smack right back to him and erased the Knights' would-be-game-evener with a 1-3 double play during the Spirits' 2-0 non-league win.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Tuesday's game-saving play came to Paraclete starter Javahn Devers during the sixth inning much like the wind had all afternoon.
Fast and at his face.
"That was fortunate, I guess," he said.
Swift reflexes in place with runners at the corners, Devers caught Desert Christian junior Andrew Bayard's hard-hit smack right back to him and erased the Knights' would-be-game-evener with a 1-3 double play during the Spirits' 2-0 non-league win.
More>>
JC Men's Golf: AVC gets best finish in four years
March 23, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE — With a look of distress on his face, Jonathan Hand presented his scoring card to Antelope Valley College coach Brad Hazard on Monday.
It contained the best golf round of the AVC freshman's career.
"It was my best score for the round in the tournaments, but I still feel like I could have played a lot better," said Hand, who shot a team-best 73 during a Western State match at Antelope Valley Country Club.
Hand would only allow himself to crack a smile after learning his performance helped the Marauders claim a second-place finish at their home course, a showing worthy of cheers and hoorays for an AVC squad that has often struggled to make a top-four finish.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE — With a look of distress on his face, Jonathan Hand presented his scoring card to Antelope Valley College coach Brad Hazard on Monday.
It contained the best golf round of the AVC freshman's career.
"It was my best score for the round in the tournaments, but I still feel like I could have played a lot better," said Hand, who shot a team-best 73 during a Western State match at Antelope Valley Country Club.
Hand would only allow himself to crack a smile after learning his performance helped the Marauders claim a second-place finish at their home course, a showing worthy of cheers and hoorays for an AVC squad that has often struggled to make a top-four finish.
More>>
JC Baseball: AVC gets its clutch hit, wins first one at home this season
March 14, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Ground out after ground out, fly out after fly out, Antelope Valley College head coach John Livermont's exasperation grew once again on Saturday.
"I've seen that movie before, yeah, I've seen that movie," Livermont said. "It's been too many sequels."
But in what turned out to be a flick the Marauders had to yet to see at home or in conference this season, Tyler Pittmon delivered the pop corn-dropping twist in the form of a bases-clearing double in the seventh inning that lifted AVC to an 11-4 win over West L.A.
The victory was the first at home in eight tries for the Marauders. It was also the first in six tries in Western State South Conference play after many close calls.
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Ground out after ground out, fly out after fly out, Antelope Valley College head coach John Livermont's exasperation grew once again on Saturday.
"I've seen that movie before, yeah, I've seen that movie," Livermont said. "It's been too many sequels."
But in what turned out to be a flick the Marauders had to yet to see at home or in conference this season, Tyler Pittmon delivered the pop corn-dropping twist in the form of a bases-clearing double in the seventh inning that lifted AVC to an 11-4 win over West L.A.
The victory was the first at home in eight tries for the Marauders. It was also the first in six tries in Western State South Conference play after many close calls.
More>>
JC Baseball: AVC offense quiet in conference loss to Citrus
March 7, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Antelope Valley College tried really hard to score on Saturday.
So hard indeed that it ran into two outs at home plate during a 4-1 Western State South Conference loss to Citrus.
"Twice I really forced the envelope trying to score that run," AVC head coach John Livermont said. "It didn't happen. The other team made a play. You have to tip your hat to them, but that's how aggressive ... I have to take chances I don't have to do normally, but the hits just haven't been coming."
The loss was the third in a row for the Marauders (3-10, 0-3 WSS), who are still searching for their first conference win.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Antelope Valley College tried really hard to score on Saturday.
So hard indeed that it ran into two outs at home plate during a 4-1 Western State South Conference loss to Citrus.
"Twice I really forced the envelope trying to score that run," AVC head coach John Livermont said. "It didn't happen. The other team made a play. You have to tip your hat to them, but that's how aggressive ... I have to take chances I don't have to do normally, but the hits just haven't been coming."
The loss was the third in a row for the Marauders (3-10, 0-3 WSS), who are still searching for their first conference win.
More>>
Boys Volleyball: Quartz Hill falls against Saugus in first game
March 4, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
QUARTZ HILL — Junior Jason Eslinger has high goals for Quartz Hill this season.
"I'm worried about making my team better," he said after the Rebels' season-opening 25-9, 25-16, 25-16 defeat at the hands of Saugus on Wednesday. "Of course I want to be better, but I want my team to be as good as me ... without sounding as cocky as I just did."
Arguably the best player and the young leader of a team on a quest for a Golden League title, Eslinger led the Rebels with four kills as Quartz Hill took a tumble in the first match of the season against the experienced Centurions (1-1).
Wednesday marking only the first of 16 scheduled games for the Rebels, it's hardly time to press the panic button. Eslinger and the rest of his teammates all have plenty of time to work out their early season kinks.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
QUARTZ HILL — Junior Jason Eslinger has high goals for Quartz Hill this season.
"I'm worried about making my team better," he said after the Rebels' season-opening 25-9, 25-16, 25-16 defeat at the hands of Saugus on Wednesday. "Of course I want to be better, but I want my team to be as good as me ... without sounding as cocky as I just did."
Arguably the best player and the young leader of a team on a quest for a Golden League title, Eslinger led the Rebels with four kills as Quartz Hill took a tumble in the first match of the season against the experienced Centurions (1-1).
Wednesday marking only the first of 16 scheduled games for the Rebels, it's hardly time to press the panic button. Eslinger and the rest of his teammates all have plenty of time to work out their early season kinks.
More>>
Boys Basketball: League toughens up Spirits into deep playoff run
March 3, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Paraclete's 2-8 league record this past season said a lot about the Spirits.
A member of the nationally recognized Gold Coast League, Paraclete is a powerhouse in the Antelope Valley.
"Two wins doesn't sound like a lot, but it's a big-time accomplishment," Spirits senior Patrick Kilcoyne said.
A year after going winless in league play, something that didn't prevent them from reaching the playoffs, the Spirits won two in a league packed with monster teams.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Paraclete's 2-8 league record this past season said a lot about the Spirits.
A member of the nationally recognized Gold Coast League, Paraclete is a powerhouse in the Antelope Valley.
"Two wins doesn't sound like a lot, but it's a big-time accomplishment," Spirits senior Patrick Kilcoyne said.
A year after going winless in league play, something that didn't prevent them from reaching the playoffs, the Spirits won two in a league packed with monster teams.
More>>
Girls Basketball: AV makes heroic comeback, but falls short in quarterfinals
Feb. 25, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
WEST COVINA — The final buzzer was still moments away during Antelope Valley's 50-47 CIF Southern Section Division 3AA quarterfinal defeat at South Hills on Wednesday night, but tears had already swelled up in several of the Antelopes' eyes as the Huskies' Brittany Wang dribbled off the final seconds of her team's win.
As thundering victory music boomed through the West Covina gym, the 'Lopes silently left through the back door, into the cold and darkness of the night that could do little to hide a pain similar to one they felt a year before when their season ended in the first round.
"This is going to burn for another year," AV head coach Deon Price said.
The Antelopes (25-2) know heartbreak. This time, however, they won't have anything to hang their heads over as they go into the offseason.
A year after losing despite holding a one-point lead and possession of the ball with 0.3 seconds to go in the 2013-14 playoffs — something the 'Lopes have gone on to call "the 0.3 game" — AV's quarterfinal matchup against South Hills (23-6) only left a bitter taste for the 'Lopes because an impressive fourth-quarter effort came up just short.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
WEST COVINA — The final buzzer was still moments away during Antelope Valley's 50-47 CIF Southern Section Division 3AA quarterfinal defeat at South Hills on Wednesday night, but tears had already swelled up in several of the Antelopes' eyes as the Huskies' Brittany Wang dribbled off the final seconds of her team's win.
As thundering victory music boomed through the West Covina gym, the 'Lopes silently left through the back door, into the cold and darkness of the night that could do little to hide a pain similar to one they felt a year before when their season ended in the first round.
"This is going to burn for another year," AV head coach Deon Price said.
The Antelopes (25-2) know heartbreak. This time, however, they won't have anything to hang their heads over as they go into the offseason.
A year after losing despite holding a one-point lead and possession of the ball with 0.3 seconds to go in the 2013-14 playoffs — something the 'Lopes have gone on to call "the 0.3 game" — AV's quarterfinal matchup against South Hills (23-6) only left a bitter taste for the 'Lopes because an impressive fourth-quarter effort came up just short.
More>>
Boys Basketball feature: The future is here for rolling Roadrunners
Feb. 23, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
ROSAMOND — Ever since Rosamond went on an extraordinary run to a Division 5A championship in 2007-08, many generations of Roadrunners have attempted to conjure up some of the magic of that Tim Atkerson-led team.
John Johnson, the man in charge for the past six seasons, believes this year's team has the best chance.
"I'm going to make some people mad, but yes, definitely," the head coach said.
In leading the Roadrunners (16-9) to an unbeaten High Desert League season and a sixth consecutive playoff berth since taking over, the beauty of perhaps the best team of the Johnson era lies in that most of this season's generation will be next year's, too.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
ROSAMOND — Ever since Rosamond went on an extraordinary run to a Division 5A championship in 2007-08, many generations of Roadrunners have attempted to conjure up some of the magic of that Tim Atkerson-led team.
John Johnson, the man in charge for the past six seasons, believes this year's team has the best chance.
"I'm going to make some people mad, but yes, definitely," the head coach said.
In leading the Roadrunners (16-9) to an unbeaten High Desert League season and a sixth consecutive playoff berth since taking over, the beauty of perhaps the best team of the Johnson era lies in that most of this season's generation will be next year's, too.
More>>
Boys Basketball: Slow start dooms Bulldogs in playoff loss to Calabasas
Feb. 20, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE — Recording two blocks in the first minute Friday night, the energy was there from the beginning from three-time defending Golden League champion Highland at a place where it hadn't lost in two years.
The baskets, however, went MIA for too long against an opponent that proved too difficult to rally against even at home, 10th-seeded Calabasas, in a 62-51 CIF-SS Division 1AA first-round defeat.
"We got off to a slow start," Highland coach Tim Anderson said. "I know they were excited for the game. I think we were nervous coming into it. They were a little overexcited and missed some things we normally would make."
Missed layup after missed layup, the Bulldogs dug themselves an 18-5 first-quarter deficit they never fully recovered from in what became their first home loss since Feb. 15, 2013 against Etiwanda, also in the first round of the playoffs.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE — Recording two blocks in the first minute Friday night, the energy was there from the beginning from three-time defending Golden League champion Highland at a place where it hadn't lost in two years.
The baskets, however, went MIA for too long against an opponent that proved too difficult to rally against even at home, 10th-seeded Calabasas, in a 62-51 CIF-SS Division 1AA first-round defeat.
"We got off to a slow start," Highland coach Tim Anderson said. "I know they were excited for the game. I think we were nervous coming into it. They were a little overexcited and missed some things we normally would make."
Missed layup after missed layup, the Bulldogs dug themselves an 18-5 first-quarter deficit they never fully recovered from in what became their first home loss since Feb. 15, 2013 against Etiwanda, also in the first round of the playoffs.
More>>
Girls Basketball: Priceless blowout win for Antelopes in first round vs. Simi Valley
Feb. 20, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Senior Tylen Price was missing on Thursday night as third-seeded Antelope Valley took on Simi Valley in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 3AA playoffs.
Morgan Bizzell and Oriana Brown took it upon themselves to make sure hardly anyone noticed in an 81-37 romp over the Pioneers (5-22) that sent the Antelopes (24-1) to the second round for the first time since 2012.
"When Tylen's not here, I'm the leader. I have to lead the team," said Bizzell, a junior.
On this night, so did Brown, a sophomore. The duo picked up 18 points apiece to lead AV to its 21st consecutive double-digit win.
After a 3-pointer from Simi Valley's Jenah Lazicki to tie the game up at 5-5 early in the first quarter, Bizzell scored eight consecutive points. By the end of the period, the 'Lopes had reeled off a 21-0 run and were in complete control.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Senior Tylen Price was missing on Thursday night as third-seeded Antelope Valley took on Simi Valley in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 3AA playoffs.
Morgan Bizzell and Oriana Brown took it upon themselves to make sure hardly anyone noticed in an 81-37 romp over the Pioneers (5-22) that sent the Antelopes (24-1) to the second round for the first time since 2012.
"When Tylen's not here, I'm the leader. I have to lead the team," said Bizzell, a junior.
On this night, so did Brown, a sophomore. The duo picked up 18 points apiece to lead AV to its 21st consecutive double-digit win.
After a 3-pointer from Simi Valley's Jenah Lazicki to tie the game up at 5-5 early in the first quarter, Bizzell scored eight consecutive points. By the end of the period, the 'Lopes had reeled off a 21-0 run and were in complete control.
More>>
Boys Basketball: Desert unable to solve Viewpoint's swarming defense in playoff loss
Feb. 18, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
EDWARDS AFB — Things could have gone better for Desert during the second quarter of its CIF-SS Division 5AA first-round matchup on Wednesday night.
But after enjoying one of their best quarters of the season, the Scorpions couldn't avoid one of their most unfortunate ones in a 68-36 defeat at the hands of third-seeded Viewpoint.
"That second-quarter it was just ..." Desert coach Michael Williams said. "I called like three timeouts in the quarter."
Following a first period in which the unfazed Scorpions (14-8) went blow by blow against the mighty Patriots (19-7), it all came to a halt as Viewpoint upped its defensive pressure.
The result was a turnover-filled, three-point second quarter for Desert, which went from leading 13-12 late in the first quarter to down 39-16 at halftime, a 27-3 run.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
EDWARDS AFB — Things could have gone better for Desert during the second quarter of its CIF-SS Division 5AA first-round matchup on Wednesday night.
But after enjoying one of their best quarters of the season, the Scorpions couldn't avoid one of their most unfortunate ones in a 68-36 defeat at the hands of third-seeded Viewpoint.
"That second-quarter it was just ..." Desert coach Michael Williams said. "I called like three timeouts in the quarter."
Following a first period in which the unfazed Scorpions (14-8) went blow by blow against the mighty Patriots (19-7), it all came to a halt as Viewpoint upped its defensive pressure.
The result was a turnover-filled, three-point second quarter for Desert, which went from leading 13-12 late in the first quarter to down 39-16 at halftime, a 27-3 run.
More>>
Girls Basketball: Perfect Antelopes seek redemption in 2015 playoffs
Feb. 16, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — The sting of a bizarre defeat to end its 2013-14 season has been with Antelope Valley throughout 2014-15.
Leading by a point with 0.3 seconds left and with possession of the ball in the first round of the playoffs against Irvine last year, the Antelopes lost on a turnover and a buzzer-beating jumper that was straight out of the Twilight Zone.
"That loss really hurt a lot of us," AV senior Tylen Price said. "That was just crazy."
Using the painful defeat as motivation, however, the Antelopes - led by Tatyana Lyles, Morgan Bizzell, Niyah Page, Oriana Brown and Price - didn't let almost anyone come close to touching them this season.
The 'Lopes went 23-1 overall and 14-0 in the Golden League to take the crown. Every one of their wins came by double digits. In league play, their average margin of victory was 39 points.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — The sting of a bizarre defeat to end its 2013-14 season has been with Antelope Valley throughout 2014-15.
Leading by a point with 0.3 seconds left and with possession of the ball in the first round of the playoffs against Irvine last year, the Antelopes lost on a turnover and a buzzer-beating jumper that was straight out of the Twilight Zone.
"That loss really hurt a lot of us," AV senior Tylen Price said. "That was just crazy."
Using the painful defeat as motivation, however, the Antelopes - led by Tatyana Lyles, Morgan Bizzell, Niyah Page, Oriana Brown and Price - didn't let almost anyone come close to touching them this season.
The 'Lopes went 23-1 overall and 14-0 in the Golden League to take the crown. Every one of their wins came by double digits. In league play, their average margin of victory was 39 points.
More>>
Boys Basketball: McClendon, Eastside rally twice to beat Quartz Hill
Feb. 12, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
QUARTZ HILL — Eastside seemingly has been playing catch-up all season long.
There it was again in the form of a double-digit deficit in a must-win game on Thursday night against a group of pumped Rebels eager to show former teammate Jeffery McClendon he should have never left Quartz Hill.
"Standard Eastside basketball. Start slow, have to make a comeback," Lions head coach Jesse Parker said.
In a 64-57 win over McClendon's old school in the last day of Golden League play, the Lions rallied twice using defense that was anything but standard.
The Lions (9-14, 7-7 GL) dug themselves out of a 12-point second quarter hole by limiting Quartz Hill (10-13, 8-6) to two points in the period. They then performed a grand encore by turning an 11-point third-quarter deficit into a 12-point fourth-quarter lead, courtesy of a 23-0 run that spanned nearly 8 minutes.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
QUARTZ HILL — Eastside seemingly has been playing catch-up all season long.
There it was again in the form of a double-digit deficit in a must-win game on Thursday night against a group of pumped Rebels eager to show former teammate Jeffery McClendon he should have never left Quartz Hill.
"Standard Eastside basketball. Start slow, have to make a comeback," Lions head coach Jesse Parker said.
In a 64-57 win over McClendon's old school in the last day of Golden League play, the Lions rallied twice using defense that was anything but standard.
The Lions (9-14, 7-7 GL) dug themselves out of a 12-point second quarter hole by limiting Quartz Hill (10-13, 8-6) to two points in the period. They then performed a grand encore by turning an 11-point third-quarter deficit into a 12-point fourth-quarter lead, courtesy of a 23-0 run that spanned nearly 8 minutes.
More>>
Boys Basketball: With aunt in mind, Lions' McClendon visits old teammates
Feb. 12, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Jeffery McClendon's moment is almost here.
Tonight could mark the Eastside star's last high school game. That it comes in a must-win situation against some old friends in Quartz Hill is only fitting.
"Everybody I went to Quartz Hill with, I grew up with," said McClendon, a 6-foot-3 guard who averages 25 points, seven rebounds and five assists per game. "We all went to elementary school, middle school together."
In trying to fulfill a pledge he made to his beloved aunt Janevia Taylor, a former basketball player at the University of Hawaii who's been in a coma since a 2007 car accident, the Rebel-turned-Lion is almost ready to find a permanent home at the next level.
"I've been playing for her," McClendon said. "I'm trying to finish out her dream."
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Jeffery McClendon's moment is almost here.
Tonight could mark the Eastside star's last high school game. That it comes in a must-win situation against some old friends in Quartz Hill is only fitting.
"Everybody I went to Quartz Hill with, I grew up with," said McClendon, a 6-foot-3 guard who averages 25 points, seven rebounds and five assists per game. "We all went to elementary school, middle school together."
In trying to fulfill a pledge he made to his beloved aunt Janevia Taylor, a former basketball player at the University of Hawaii who's been in a coma since a 2007 car accident, the Rebel-turned-Lion is almost ready to find a permanent home at the next level.
"I've been playing for her," McClendon said. "I'm trying to finish out her dream."
More>>
Boys Basketball: Eastside survives against AV, moves into playoff spot
Feb. 6, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — When Eastside had to forfeit three Golden League games earlier this season, dropping it from second to seventh place in the league, the Lions might have seen the season slipping away.
If that didn't do it, Jeffery McClendon losing his grip on the basketball and turning it over to Antelope Valley's Tristan Walker in the waning seconds of a tie game on Friday night might have done it.
"Yeah it did," McClendon said.
But in a season filled with misfortune for the Lions, luck was finally on their side Friday as Walker's last-second charge to the basket rolled off and Eastside (7-13, 6-6 GL) survived in overtime for a 73-67 win.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — When Eastside had to forfeit three Golden League games earlier this season, dropping it from second to seventh place in the league, the Lions might have seen the season slipping away.
If that didn't do it, Jeffery McClendon losing his grip on the basketball and turning it over to Antelope Valley's Tristan Walker in the waning seconds of a tie game on Friday night might have done it.
"Yeah it did," McClendon said.
But in a season filled with misfortune for the Lions, luck was finally on their side Friday as Walker's last-second charge to the basket rolled off and Eastside (7-13, 6-6 GL) survived in overtime for a 73-67 win.
More>>
Boys Basketball: Paraclete stunned by Viewpoint on senior night
Feb. 5, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER – At a point early in the fourth quarter of Paraclete's senior night game against Viewpoint on Thursday, head coach Tim Atkerson had to turn away as one of his players got ready to shoot a free throw.
"It's like a scary movie, I can't watch," he mumbled.
For Atkerson's team, that sequence counted as part of the happy moments that preceded a stunning Viewpoint run in a 51-48 Gold Coast League loss that indeed was straight out of a horror movie.
Following the free throw, a make, the Spirits led 39-31. They would extend that advantage to 46-35 with 5:15 to go after a 3-pointer from senior Blake Jordan.
In a league where getting wins has turned almost as difficult as learning Chinese through correspondence for Paraclete, it looked like the rewarding ending the Spirits believed they deserved.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER – At a point early in the fourth quarter of Paraclete's senior night game against Viewpoint on Thursday, head coach Tim Atkerson had to turn away as one of his players got ready to shoot a free throw.
"It's like a scary movie, I can't watch," he mumbled.
For Atkerson's team, that sequence counted as part of the happy moments that preceded a stunning Viewpoint run in a 51-48 Gold Coast League loss that indeed was straight out of a horror movie.
Following the free throw, a make, the Spirits led 39-31. They would extend that advantage to 46-35 with 5:15 to go after a 3-pointer from senior Blake Jordan.
In a league where getting wins has turned almost as difficult as learning Chinese through correspondence for Paraclete, it looked like the rewarding ending the Spirits believed they deserved.
More>>
Girls Basketball: Desert withstands DC's best shot
Feb. 2, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Desert Christian had Monday night marked on its 2015 calendar halfway through 2014.
"We circled this one on June 1st," DC head coach Ray Zelenski said prior to the Knights' matchup of Desert Mountain League titans against Desert. "This is it."
The defending DML champion Scorpions (14-4, 10-0 DML) took the wrath of months of mental and physical preparation from the Knights (12-3, 8-2) for one half before responding with some of their own in the third quarter during a 57-42 win that unofficially gave them a repeat title with four games to go.
Turns out, the Scorpions had also been getting ready for this one for a while.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — Desert Christian had Monday night marked on its 2015 calendar halfway through 2014.
"We circled this one on June 1st," DC head coach Ray Zelenski said prior to the Knights' matchup of Desert Mountain League titans against Desert. "This is it."
The defending DML champion Scorpions (14-4, 10-0 DML) took the wrath of months of mental and physical preparation from the Knights (12-3, 8-2) for one half before responding with some of their own in the third quarter during a 57-42 win that unofficially gave them a repeat title with four games to go.
Turns out, the Scorpions had also been getting ready for this one for a while.
More>>
Boys Basketball: End of the road for one Golden League co-champ
Jan. 30, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE — Once Ezekiel Hampton-Armstrong fell to the floor and grabbed at his right leg in visible pain as his team faced a 16-point deficit in the fourth quarter on Friday night, reality finally started to settle in for defending co-Golden League champion Quartz Hill.
The defense was over.
"Once he came out of the game, I think that was it," Quartz Hill coach Bernard Nichter said.
For the other co-league champ, Highland (13-8, 9-1 GL), the quest for a title repeat was never more alive than after it delivered the knockout blow to its bitter rivals in a 75-59 dismissal at Highland High.
This time the Bulldogs don't intend to share the championship. With Friday being the closest margin of victory during their current four-game win streak, it'll be difficult to stop them.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE — Once Ezekiel Hampton-Armstrong fell to the floor and grabbed at his right leg in visible pain as his team faced a 16-point deficit in the fourth quarter on Friday night, reality finally started to settle in for defending co-Golden League champion Quartz Hill.
The defense was over.
"Once he came out of the game, I think that was it," Quartz Hill coach Bernard Nichter said.
For the other co-league champ, Highland (13-8, 9-1 GL), the quest for a title repeat was never more alive than after it delivered the knockout blow to its bitter rivals in a 75-59 dismissal at Highland High.
This time the Bulldogs don't intend to share the championship. With Friday being the closest margin of victory during their current four-game win streak, it'll be difficult to stop them.
More>>
Boys Basketball: Windward rallies against Bryant, Paraclete
Jan. 29, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — After missing his share of free throws during Paraclete's 59-47 Gold Coast League loss to Windward on Thursday night, Brennen Bryant didn't take it easy on himself.
"It's on me," said Bryant, the Spirits senior center. "I just got to make free throws. That's the reason we lost. I know I could have done better and I know we could have won that game. We should have won that game.
"It's my fault. I let my team down."
It was a statement hardly anyone could agree with. Bryant, multiple times the very reason the Spirits have come out on the victorious side of a game, scored a game-high 17 points and did a decent job in the unenviable task of patrolling the paint against a rival that featured several players on the plus side of 6 feet 5.
Bryant also scored 11 of the Spirits' 21 second-half points, which just wasn't nearly enough against Windward.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — After missing his share of free throws during Paraclete's 59-47 Gold Coast League loss to Windward on Thursday night, Brennen Bryant didn't take it easy on himself.
"It's on me," said Bryant, the Spirits senior center. "I just got to make free throws. That's the reason we lost. I know I could have done better and I know we could have won that game. We should have won that game.
"It's my fault. I let my team down."
It was a statement hardly anyone could agree with. Bryant, multiple times the very reason the Spirits have come out on the victorious side of a game, scored a game-high 17 points and did a decent job in the unenviable task of patrolling the paint against a rival that featured several players on the plus side of 6 feet 5.
Bryant also scored 11 of the Spirits' 21 second-half points, which just wasn't nearly enough against Windward.
More>>
Men's Basketball: AVC holds off Bakersfield, wins 13th in a row
Jan. 28, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - Shelton Boykin danced around with the basketball, closer to midcourt than to the 3-point line, seemingly unaware that the last two seconds of the first half of Wednesday's game against Bakersfield were about to expire.
By the time Boykin's 27-footer had swished through the net, AVC head coach John Taylor - who instants before had been screaming at the top of his lungs for the Marauder to shoot the ball - was halfway through a reverse-baseball-swing pose, ending with a fist up in approval of one of the climaxing moments during the Marauders' 74-65 Western State South Conference win.
"That's huge," Taylor said. "Shelton lives for those kinds of shots. We were trying to get him the ball, just not that far away."
Boykin's big-time make was one of seven AVC treys in a first half where the Marauders used long-distance shooting to build a sizable lead before they eventually needed to fend off the pesky Renegades (12-9, 2-5 WSS).
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - Shelton Boykin danced around with the basketball, closer to midcourt than to the 3-point line, seemingly unaware that the last two seconds of the first half of Wednesday's game against Bakersfield were about to expire.
By the time Boykin's 27-footer had swished through the net, AVC head coach John Taylor - who instants before had been screaming at the top of his lungs for the Marauder to shoot the ball - was halfway through a reverse-baseball-swing pose, ending with a fist up in approval of one of the climaxing moments during the Marauders' 74-65 Western State South Conference win.
"That's huge," Taylor said. "Shelton lives for those kinds of shots. We were trying to get him the ball, just not that far away."
Boykin's big-time make was one of seven AVC treys in a first half where the Marauders used long-distance shooting to build a sizable lead before they eventually needed to fend off the pesky Renegades (12-9, 2-5 WSS).
More>>
Boys Basketball: Rebels get by Antelopes in frantic game
Jan. 23, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
QUARTZ HILL — The Golden League was filled with emotions late Friday night.
And they didn't end once Melvin Washington's potential tying 3-pointer bounced harmlessly off the back of the rim at the buzzer to preserve Quartz Hill's 65-62 win over Antelope Valley.
"My heart was racing, I was about to pass out on the floor," said the Rebels' Ezekiel Hampton-Armstrong, who scored nine of his team-high 19 points in a frenetic fourth quarter. "Everybody else was standing there watching. I'm so happy (Washington) missed."
In a matchup that was supposed to be a tiebreaker for fourth place in the Golden League, the Rebels learned after the game that the win lifted them to third instead due to an unfortunate twist involving Eastside.
Earlier this week, the Lions forfeited two non-league games and three league ones due to using an ineligible player during the stretch. The action changed Eastside's league record from 5-2 to 2-5 going into Friday, automatically bumping Quartz Hill (7-9, 5-3 GL) and AV (12-8, 4-4) up a spot in the standings.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
QUARTZ HILL — The Golden League was filled with emotions late Friday night.
And they didn't end once Melvin Washington's potential tying 3-pointer bounced harmlessly off the back of the rim at the buzzer to preserve Quartz Hill's 65-62 win over Antelope Valley.
"My heart was racing, I was about to pass out on the floor," said the Rebels' Ezekiel Hampton-Armstrong, who scored nine of his team-high 19 points in a frenetic fourth quarter. "Everybody else was standing there watching. I'm so happy (Washington) missed."
In a matchup that was supposed to be a tiebreaker for fourth place in the Golden League, the Rebels learned after the game that the win lifted them to third instead due to an unfortunate twist involving Eastside.
Earlier this week, the Lions forfeited two non-league games and three league ones due to using an ineligible player during the stretch. The action changed Eastside's league record from 5-2 to 2-5 going into Friday, automatically bumping Quartz Hill (7-9, 5-3 GL) and AV (12-8, 4-4) up a spot in the standings.
More>>
Girls Basketball: Bizzell's shot, Price propel AV past Quartz Hill
Jan. 22, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — These days of near invincibility, seemingly everything is going the 'Lopes' way.
So, when a clock mishap gave Morgan Bizzell 1.8 seconds in the first quarter to heave a shot from beyond halfcourt during AV's 80-36 win over Quartz Hill on Thursday, of course the prayer banked in to the oohs and ahhs of the crowd and to a dancing Deon Price.
"Not only is that a big bucket, but it's a heck of a confidence booster for her and the rest of the team," said Price, the 'Lopes coach. "And you saw everybody jumping. Everybody got hyped up and that definitely helped us push through and turn it on a little bit."
It's certainly good to be in AV's shoes at the moment. Led by Bizzell's improbable 3-pointer and a season-high 30 points from Tylen Price, the Antelopes (17-1, 8-0 GL) won their 14th game in a row in yet another blowout.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — These days of near invincibility, seemingly everything is going the 'Lopes' way.
So, when a clock mishap gave Morgan Bizzell 1.8 seconds in the first quarter to heave a shot from beyond halfcourt during AV's 80-36 win over Quartz Hill on Thursday, of course the prayer banked in to the oohs and ahhs of the crowd and to a dancing Deon Price.
"Not only is that a big bucket, but it's a heck of a confidence booster for her and the rest of the team," said Price, the 'Lopes coach. "And you saw everybody jumping. Everybody got hyped up and that definitely helped us push through and turn it on a little bit."
It's certainly good to be in AV's shoes at the moment. Led by Bizzell's improbable 3-pointer and a season-high 30 points from Tylen Price, the Antelopes (17-1, 8-0 GL) won their 14th game in a row in yet another blowout.
More>>
Boys Basketball: Quartz Hill gets win vs. old teammate, Lions
Jan. 20, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — For all of the 2013-14 season, Eastside's Jeffery McClendon grew up bleeding Quartz Hill blue and gold. But when his grandmother had to move to the east side of Lancaster, he had no choice but to come along, becoming a Lion by default.
On Tuesday, as McClendon faced his former teammates for the first time, the Rebels more than knew what to expect.
"Most of the offense is ran through him," Quartz Hill's K'Len Preyer said. "So we knew if we stopped him, that's the game."
Stopping him on this night meant holding McClendon to a season-high 35 points, good enough to deliver him and the Lions a stunning wire-to-wire 73-64 Golden League defeat.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER — For all of the 2013-14 season, Eastside's Jeffery McClendon grew up bleeding Quartz Hill blue and gold. But when his grandmother had to move to the east side of Lancaster, he had no choice but to come along, becoming a Lion by default.
On Tuesday, as McClendon faced his former teammates for the first time, the Rebels more than knew what to expect.
"Most of the offense is ran through him," Quartz Hill's K'Len Preyer said. "So we knew if we stopped him, that's the game."
Stopping him on this night meant holding McClendon to a season-high 35 points, good enough to deliver him and the Lions a stunning wire-to-wire 73-64 Golden League defeat.
More>>
Boys Basketball: Desert defense stifles Mustangs in DML win.
Jan. 14, 2015
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE - Playfully trying to give the boys every edge they could get on Wednesday night, some members of the Desert girls basketball team began to shout, "5! 4! 3! 2! 1!" from the stands as Vasquez's Joel Salazar dribbled the ball on an offensive possession that still had 20 seconds left in it.
"Ehhhhh!" they cried out as Salazar fell for their false shot-clock countdown and rushed a shot that bounced way off the side of the rim.
Desert boys basketball coach Michael Williams immediately turned to the stands and told them: "Ladies, don't do that."
"Kids are being kids, you know," Williams said after his team beat Vasquez 50-36. "But I've got to stand up and let them know, 'Hey, we're going to be classy here.'"
In a victory that sent the Scorpions to 4-0 in Desert Mountain League play, they didn't need the defensive help anyway.
More>>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE - Playfully trying to give the boys every edge they could get on Wednesday night, some members of the Desert girls basketball team began to shout, "5! 4! 3! 2! 1!" from the stands as Vasquez's Joel Salazar dribbled the ball on an offensive possession that still had 20 seconds left in it.
"Ehhhhh!" they cried out as Salazar fell for their false shot-clock countdown and rushed a shot that bounced way off the side of the rim.
Desert boys basketball coach Michael Williams immediately turned to the stands and told them: "Ladies, don't do that."
"Kids are being kids, you know," Williams said after his team beat Vasquez 50-36. "But I've got to stand up and let them know, 'Hey, we're going to be classy here.'"
In a victory that sent the Scorpions to 4-0 in Desert Mountain League play, they didn't need the defensive help anyway.
More>>
Boys basketball: Paraclete falls to Crossroads in league opener
Jan. 13, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER — A Paraclete defender launched himself at Crossroads guard Brandon Tillis as he rose up for a 3-pointer midway through the second quarter of Tuesday's Gold Coast League match, knocking him down and sending him to the line for three free throws.
Up to that point, it was the best play the Spirits had made on Tillis, who only made two of the three freebies.
"I guess so," said Tillis, who was 5-for-5 in 3-pointers in the first 12 minutes of the game in a 63-55 defeat of the Spirits. "For the first half, that was the only way."
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER — A Paraclete defender launched himself at Crossroads guard Brandon Tillis as he rose up for a 3-pointer midway through the second quarter of Tuesday's Gold Coast League match, knocking him down and sending him to the line for three free throws.
Up to that point, it was the best play the Spirits had made on Tillis, who only made two of the three freebies.
"I guess so," said Tillis, who was 5-for-5 in 3-pointers in the first 12 minutes of the game in a 63-55 defeat of the Spirits. "For the first half, that was the only way."
More>>
No place like home: Former Eagle Brandon returns
Jan. 12, 2015
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
PALMDALE — Long removed from his days as one of the deadliest sharpshooters in the Antelope Valley, Timothy Brandon was back in town, sitting at a gym at AV High on Tuesday, watching the school he spent nearly his entire life with getting demolished.
As the soft-spoken 18-year-old witnessed Lancaster Baptist being handed its first loss of the season in emphatic fashion by Eastside, he felt an itch, maybe even the urge to jump in to try to help those he once called teammates.
"It brought back a lot of memories, definitely," said Brandon, currently a freshman at Pensacola Christian College in Florida. "It was nice seeing old friends compete."
As a junior in 2012-13, Brandon was the face of Eagles basketball. He averaged 20.3 points per game and hit 120 3-pointers in just 20 games. He had three games in which he made 10 3-pointers as Lancaster Baptist went 11-10 overall and fell in the first round of the CIF playoffs.
More>>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
PALMDALE — Long removed from his days as one of the deadliest sharpshooters in the Antelope Valley, Timothy Brandon was back in town, sitting at a gym at AV High on Tuesday, watching the school he spent nearly his entire life with getting demolished.
As the soft-spoken 18-year-old witnessed Lancaster Baptist being handed its first loss of the season in emphatic fashion by Eastside, he felt an itch, maybe even the urge to jump in to try to help those he once called teammates.
"It brought back a lot of memories, definitely," said Brandon, currently a freshman at Pensacola Christian College in Florida. "It was nice seeing old friends compete."
As a junior in 2012-13, Brandon was the face of Eagles basketball. He averaged 20.3 points per game and hit 120 3-pointers in just 20 games. He had three games in which he made 10 3-pointers as Lancaster Baptist went 11-10 overall and fell in the first round of the CIF playoffs.
More>>
FOOTBALL: AVC falls in shootout against L.A. Valley
Oct. 4, 2014
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER — There was nowhere to go but up for the Antelope Valley College football team.
A week after one of the most embarrassing outings in Marauder history, a 66-7 loss to American Pacific Conference bully Santa Monica College, AVC was back home on Saturday night, looking to take out its frustrations on visiting L.A. Valley College.
The start couldn’t have been more auspicious for the Marauders. Two minutes into the first quarter they led 14-0.
After the early bubble was burst with almost three full quarters of ugly football, AVC (2-3, 0-2 APC) found its offense again, as did L.A. Valley in a 30-27 win over the Marauders.
It was better than last week for AVC, but still just as disheartening.
More>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER — There was nowhere to go but up for the Antelope Valley College football team.
A week after one of the most embarrassing outings in Marauder history, a 66-7 loss to American Pacific Conference bully Santa Monica College, AVC was back home on Saturday night, looking to take out its frustrations on visiting L.A. Valley College.
The start couldn’t have been more auspicious for the Marauders. Two minutes into the first quarter they led 14-0.
After the early bubble was burst with almost three full quarters of ugly football, AVC (2-3, 0-2 APC) found its offense again, as did L.A. Valley in a 30-27 win over the Marauders.
It was better than last week for AVC, but still just as disheartening.
More>
VOLLEYBALL: Littlerock picks up first win against struggling AV
Sept. 30, 2014
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - Experiencing a struggle of a 2014 season, the Littlerock girls volleyball team was still looking to win its first set of the year on Tuesday as it visited Golden League foe Antelope Valley.
"They've all been playing for three or four years, so they should know the game," Littlerock coach Alyssa Benoit said of her team. "But I don't expect them to be perfect."
Far from perfect it was, but in sweeping the Antelopes, 25-22, 25-21, 25-22, the Lobos (1-7, 1-3 GL) put an emphatic end to their winless season.
Why be content with winning just one set when you can win much more?
More>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - Experiencing a struggle of a 2014 season, the Littlerock girls volleyball team was still looking to win its first set of the year on Tuesday as it visited Golden League foe Antelope Valley.
"They've all been playing for three or four years, so they should know the game," Littlerock coach Alyssa Benoit said of her team. "But I don't expect them to be perfect."
Far from perfect it was, but in sweeping the Antelopes, 25-22, 25-21, 25-22, the Lobos (1-7, 1-3 GL) put an emphatic end to their winless season.
Why be content with winning just one set when you can win much more?
More>
VOLLEYBALL: Quartz Hill sweeps, remains perfect
Sept. 26, 2014
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
QUARTZ HILL - The powerful Quartz Hill girls volleyball team saw itself in a toe-to-toe battle in all three games against Golden League rival Highland on Thursday night.
In all three games, the Rebels' relentless fierceness eventually overwhelmed the Bulldogs.
"We knew right away that we'd have to kind of battle for a while and hopefully pull away at the end of each set," Quartz Hill head coach David Gutierrez said.
In a 25-14, 25-20, 25-15 sweep of Highland, the second-ranked team in Division 3AA didn't wait until the end of each set to pounce on its rival.
Quartz Hill, which is 11-0 overall and 3-0 in league play, took over following early deficits in all three games. The Rebels went on set-ending runs of 18-6 in the first, 18-11 in the second and 18-7 in the third.
More>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
QUARTZ HILL - The powerful Quartz Hill girls volleyball team saw itself in a toe-to-toe battle in all three games against Golden League rival Highland on Thursday night.
In all three games, the Rebels' relentless fierceness eventually overwhelmed the Bulldogs.
"We knew right away that we'd have to kind of battle for a while and hopefully pull away at the end of each set," Quartz Hill head coach David Gutierrez said.
In a 25-14, 25-20, 25-15 sweep of Highland, the second-ranked team in Division 3AA didn't wait until the end of each set to pounce on its rival.
Quartz Hill, which is 11-0 overall and 3-0 in league play, took over following early deficits in all three games. The Rebels went on set-ending runs of 18-6 in the first, 18-11 in the second and 18-7 in the third.
More>
VOLLEYBALL: Highland sweeps Lancaster in start of GL play
Sept. 19, 2014
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE - It was only extra points in the first set of the first game of Golden League play, but the atmosphere was that of a final-day-of-league, winner-takes-it-all moment on Thursday at Highland High.
The energetic crowd was on its feet and roared after every point from the exhilarated Bulldogs, only to have rebellious Lancaster come back to send the game into more extras time and time again.
The only one far from thrilled was Highland coach Tina Diaz. Her feelings were a lot closer to exasperation.
"That was ridiculous," Diaz said.
The Bulldogs (2-2, 1-0 GL) had to fight off not only the pesky Eagles (2-2, 0-1), but also their own mistakes more than once before finishing with flair in a 29-27, 27-25, 25-11 sweep.
More>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE - It was only extra points in the first set of the first game of Golden League play, but the atmosphere was that of a final-day-of-league, winner-takes-it-all moment on Thursday at Highland High.
The energetic crowd was on its feet and roared after every point from the exhilarated Bulldogs, only to have rebellious Lancaster come back to send the game into more extras time and time again.
The only one far from thrilled was Highland coach Tina Diaz. Her feelings were a lot closer to exasperation.
"That was ridiculous," Diaz said.
The Bulldogs (2-2, 1-0 GL) had to fight off not only the pesky Eagles (2-2, 0-1), but also their own mistakes more than once before finishing with flair in a 29-27, 27-25, 25-11 sweep.
More>
FOOTBALL: Marauders rally to beat Mt. San Jacinto
Sept. 7, 2014
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER — Well, that wasn't the start quarterback RJ Gordon wanted for his Antelope Valley College career.
But the second half wasn't half bad.
Looking to bring stability to a position that last year didn't see a clear-cut starter, AVC's Gordon-led offense couldn't have looked much worse in the first 30 minutes on Saturday night at Marauder Stadium.
The next 30, which resulted in a 27-20 comeback win for AVC over Mt. San Jacinto, gave Gordon and the Marauders reasons to get excited about 2014.
The winning play on a night in which AVC (1-0) got better by the minute came with the Marauders down by a point with 6:14 to go in the fourth quarter.
More>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER — Well, that wasn't the start quarterback RJ Gordon wanted for his Antelope Valley College career.
But the second half wasn't half bad.
Looking to bring stability to a position that last year didn't see a clear-cut starter, AVC's Gordon-led offense couldn't have looked much worse in the first 30 minutes on Saturday night at Marauder Stadium.
The next 30, which resulted in a 27-20 comeback win for AVC over Mt. San Jacinto, gave Gordon and the Marauders reasons to get excited about 2014.
The winning play on a night in which AVC (1-0) got better by the minute came with the Marauders down by a point with 6:14 to go in the fourth quarter.
More>
CROSS COUNTRY: Trio of Knights take co-ed relay race
Aug. 1, 2014
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE - Desert Christian cross country assistant coach Christian Powers wasn't even going to participate in Thursday's sixth installment of the High Desert Runners' Cross Country Series.
But how could he turn down being part of a potent co-ed relay team comprised of past, present and honorary Knights?
"They picked me up," Powers said.
They being Monica Aguilar, a former Desert Christian standout, and Joseph Biehl, a current one, made Thursday a day fit for three Knights.
The Desert Christian trio topped all others, coming in first at 17 minutes, 8 seconds.
More>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
PALMDALE - Desert Christian cross country assistant coach Christian Powers wasn't even going to participate in Thursday's sixth installment of the High Desert Runners' Cross Country Series.
But how could he turn down being part of a potent co-ed relay team comprised of past, present and honorary Knights?
"They picked me up," Powers said.
They being Monica Aguilar, a former Desert Christian standout, and Joseph Biehl, a current one, made Thursday a day fit for three Knights.
The Desert Christian trio topped all others, coming in first at 17 minutes, 8 seconds.
More>
BASEBALL: JetHawks rally from huge deficit again
July 11, 2014
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - Thursday marked the third straight day the JetHawks got down by at least six runs to Inland Empire before they even knew what hit them.
However big a recipe for disaster that might be, their reaction following the deficits has delivered them their first series win of the second half of the season.
One day after rallying from an 8-0 deficit to win a wild 15-12 shootout against Inland Empire, the JetHawks (52-39) got down 7-0 only to come back yet again and beat the 66ers 9-8.
The win gave them their first winning streak of the month after dropping the opening game of the series 14-8 to Inland Empire, a game in which the JetHawks drew within a run after falling behind 6-0 in the second inning.
More>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - Thursday marked the third straight day the JetHawks got down by at least six runs to Inland Empire before they even knew what hit them.
However big a recipe for disaster that might be, their reaction following the deficits has delivered them their first series win of the second half of the season.
One day after rallying from an 8-0 deficit to win a wild 15-12 shootout against Inland Empire, the JetHawks (52-39) got down 7-0 only to come back yet again and beat the 66ers 9-8.
The win gave them their first winning streak of the month after dropping the opening game of the series 14-8 to Inland Empire, a game in which the JetHawks drew within a run after falling behind 6-0 in the second inning.
More>
BASEBALL: Teaney, Quartz Hill say goodbye in quarterfinals
May 31, 2014
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
QUARTZ HILL — As he walked off the mound in the sixth inning on Friday, Jonathan Teaney had no way of knowing that would be the last time he'd be on the field for the Quartz Hill baseball team.
On a day which already had conclusion written all over it, perhaps Teaney wasn't interested in the thought.
"It was fun while it lasted, I guess," Teaney said smiling afterward.
The Rebel senior had every reason to feel accomplished even as his team fell 5-2 in the CIF-SS Division 3 quarterfinals to Bishop Amat. He, along with a handful of teammates, were immediately due at the football field for their graduation.
Everything comes to an end, including the Rebels' remarkable season and Teaney's superb high school career.
More>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
QUARTZ HILL — As he walked off the mound in the sixth inning on Friday, Jonathan Teaney had no way of knowing that would be the last time he'd be on the field for the Quartz Hill baseball team.
On a day which already had conclusion written all over it, perhaps Teaney wasn't interested in the thought.
"It was fun while it lasted, I guess," Teaney said smiling afterward.
The Rebel senior had every reason to feel accomplished even as his team fell 5-2 in the CIF-SS Division 3 quarterfinals to Bishop Amat. He, along with a handful of teammates, were immediately due at the football field for their graduation.
Everything comes to an end, including the Rebels' remarkable season and Teaney's superb high school career.
More>
BASEBALL: Underdog Vasquez falls against Crean Lutheran
May 28, 2014
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER - Jacob Musial was dealing, the Vasquez baseball team's bats were rebelliously backing him up and the improbable looked quite doable on Tuesday afternoon.
But in an upset-in-the making gone awry against top-seeded Crean Lutheran, a case of something quite good not lasting long enough predominated.
"We rode (Musial) as long as we could," Vasquez coach Paul Clemens said after his team's 7-4 loss.
Limited by a right shoulder injury which flared up at quite an inopportune time, three innings was all Musial could give the Mustangs as their season ended in the second round of the CIF-SS Division 6 playoffs.
"It was very irritating," Musial said.
More>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER - Jacob Musial was dealing, the Vasquez baseball team's bats were rebelliously backing him up and the improbable looked quite doable on Tuesday afternoon.
But in an upset-in-the making gone awry against top-seeded Crean Lutheran, a case of something quite good not lasting long enough predominated.
"We rode (Musial) as long as we could," Vasquez coach Paul Clemens said after his team's 7-4 loss.
Limited by a right shoulder injury which flared up at quite an inopportune time, three innings was all Musial could give the Mustangs as their season ended in the second round of the CIF-SS Division 6 playoffs.
"It was very irritating," Musial said.
More>
SOFTBALL: Spirits rally late to beat Edgewood
May 21, 2014
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER — Trailing late during Tuesday's CIF-Southern Section first round game against Edgewood, Paraclete's Kailla Searcy knew she could be barreling her way around the bases for the last time in 2014.
Her heart said go. Her brain and a screaming Margaret Neill said stop. At third base.
"I was close (to going)," Searcy said. "It was a hard stop, too."
With Taylor Roberts following Searcy's triple to deep center with an inside-the-park homer to push the Spirits past the Lions in a 4-3 win, Paraclete's 21st in a row, one could argue Searcy's decision was a wise one.
More>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER — Trailing late during Tuesday's CIF-Southern Section first round game against Edgewood, Paraclete's Kailla Searcy knew she could be barreling her way around the bases for the last time in 2014.
Her heart said go. Her brain and a screaming Margaret Neill said stop. At third base.
"I was close (to going)," Searcy said. "It was a hard stop, too."
With Taylor Roberts following Searcy's triple to deep center with an inside-the-park homer to push the Spirits past the Lions in a 4-3 win, Paraclete's 21st in a row, one could argue Searcy's decision was a wise one.
More>
BASKETBALL: AVC suffers first loss of year, at home
Nov. 24, 2013
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - Coming into its home opener ranked second overall in the state at a perfect 6-0 and against a team they had beaten three times in a row last season, the Antelope Valley College men's basketball team took its court on Saturday afternoon to roaring cheers from a home crowd which was ready for a show.
The Marauders were feeling confident. They were feelin' like rock stars.
And then they bombed.
"I didn't recognize our team," AVC coach John Taylor said after his team got negative reviews in its first Lancaster show of 2013-14, 92-71 to Chaffey College.
More>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
LANCASTER - Coming into its home opener ranked second overall in the state at a perfect 6-0 and against a team they had beaten three times in a row last season, the Antelope Valley College men's basketball team took its court on Saturday afternoon to roaring cheers from a home crowd which was ready for a show.
The Marauders were feeling confident. They were feelin' like rock stars.
And then they bombed.
"I didn't recognize our team," AVC coach John Taylor said after his team got negative reviews in its first Lancaster show of 2013-14, 92-71 to Chaffey College.
More>
FOOTBALL: Bobcats stunned by St. Monica Catholic
Nov. 17, 2012
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
SANTA MONICA - Things were going from bad to worse for the Boron football team on Friday night during the first half of its CIF-SS Northeast Division quarterfinal game against St. Monica Catholic.
Its starting running back had gotten hurt, the offense could not put a solid drive together, and when it did, it ended up in a frustrating turnover inside the opponent's five-yard line.
The Bobcats were getting impatient. One let out a "this can't be happening." Another one went further and said, "This is ridiculous."
A team that was used to putting up 50-plus points per game couldn't get a single one up for the first two quarters against a St. Monica Catholic team which not many thought even had a chance to make it a competitive battle.
More>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press
SANTA MONICA - Things were going from bad to worse for the Boron football team on Friday night during the first half of its CIF-SS Northeast Division quarterfinal game against St. Monica Catholic.
Its starting running back had gotten hurt, the offense could not put a solid drive together, and when it did, it ended up in a frustrating turnover inside the opponent's five-yard line.
The Bobcats were getting impatient. One let out a "this can't be happening." Another one went further and said, "This is ridiculous."
A team that was used to putting up 50-plus points per game couldn't get a single one up for the first two quarters against a St. Monica Catholic team which not many thought even had a chance to make it a competitive battle.
More>
SOCCER: Littlerock girls soccer team's playoff run ends
Feb. 20, 2014
By ALONSO TACANGA Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LITTLEROCK — Unless a championship celebration is forthcoming, the end of the season is never particularly fun for any team.
So after the final whistle in Littlerock's 2-0 loss to Canyon Springs in the CIF-SS Division 4 wild-card round of the playoffs blew, it was understandable that Lobos head coach Lorrie Duffy wasn't feeling very talkative.
"I'm proud of them," she said of her team before departing into the offseason.
Following a year in which Littlerock (9-7-1) fought to the last day of the regular season to clinch their spot in the playoffs, those words were enough. Although the loss stings for now, it doesn't take away from the fact that the Lobos made the playoffs for a second consecutive year after never having made it before.
The sour taste of a tough playoff defeat won't cast a shadow over the program's recent success for too long.
More >
By ALONSO TACANGA Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LITTLEROCK — Unless a championship celebration is forthcoming, the end of the season is never particularly fun for any team.
So after the final whistle in Littlerock's 2-0 loss to Canyon Springs in the CIF-SS Division 4 wild-card round of the playoffs blew, it was understandable that Lobos head coach Lorrie Duffy wasn't feeling very talkative.
"I'm proud of them," she said of her team before departing into the offseason.
Following a year in which Littlerock (9-7-1) fought to the last day of the regular season to clinch their spot in the playoffs, those words were enough. Although the loss stings for now, it doesn't take away from the fact that the Lobos made the playoffs for a second consecutive year after never having made it before.
The sour taste of a tough playoff defeat won't cast a shadow over the program's recent success for too long.
More >
FUTURE LEADER: Driven Como set to change the world
Feb. 22, 2014
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
PALMDALE — When first tried to be reached by phone, Quartz Hill High senior Launier Como was somewhere across the south border, on a charity mission in Mexico.
This time Como's parents were aware of the trip. This time the driven Launier didn't forget to tell them where she was planning to go.
“It’s been really hard to raise a child as strong-willed as her,” Keisha Como, Launier’s mother, said laughing. “Because she tells you what to do, but nevertheless we’re very proud of her.”
The first sign that the determined Launier was going to be a challenge to look after was when — at 12 years old — she applied to go to a handful of private schools that she felt would give her a better shot at being accepted into high-tier universities.
She was only a seventh grader. She had done all of the research and paperwork herself and gotten into Oaks Christian School, a private institution in Westlake Village. All she needed was a few more documents.
More>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
PALMDALE — When first tried to be reached by phone, Quartz Hill High senior Launier Como was somewhere across the south border, on a charity mission in Mexico.
This time Como's parents were aware of the trip. This time the driven Launier didn't forget to tell them where she was planning to go.
“It’s been really hard to raise a child as strong-willed as her,” Keisha Como, Launier’s mother, said laughing. “Because she tells you what to do, but nevertheless we’re very proud of her.”
The first sign that the determined Launier was going to be a challenge to look after was when — at 12 years old — she applied to go to a handful of private schools that she felt would give her a better shot at being accepted into high-tier universities.
She was only a seventh grader. She had done all of the research and paperwork herself and gotten into Oaks Christian School, a private institution in Westlake Village. All she needed was a few more documents.
More>
SOCCER: Vasquez boys fall as tempers flare
Feb. 21, 2014
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
ACTON — One week after winning its first-ever Desert Mountain League championship on Feb. 6, the fortunes of the Vasquez boys soccer team took a turn for the worst when starting goalkeeper Dillon Byrne injured his leg, his season over.
Having no designated backup goalie and a Division 7 first-round playoff game against Grace Brethren scheduled for Thursday, midfielder Frankie Linstrom stepped up to become the impromptu keeper.
"I just tried as hard as I could," Linstrom said after the Mustangs fell 6-0 to the Lancers. "Can't do much more, just try as hard as you can."
In fighting through adversity alone, the Mustangs (11-7-3) did enough to not allow the lopsided loss to spoil the end of one of the greatest seasons the program's ever seen. Vasquez won the DML in the last league game of the season with a last-second goal.
Maybe providing even further solace, the Mustangs also didn't allow Grace Brethren to get out of Acton unscathed. The team that caught a bad break going into the playoffs gave the Lancers a broken nose.
More>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
ACTON — One week after winning its first-ever Desert Mountain League championship on Feb. 6, the fortunes of the Vasquez boys soccer team took a turn for the worst when starting goalkeeper Dillon Byrne injured his leg, his season over.
Having no designated backup goalie and a Division 7 first-round playoff game against Grace Brethren scheduled for Thursday, midfielder Frankie Linstrom stepped up to become the impromptu keeper.
"I just tried as hard as I could," Linstrom said after the Mustangs fell 6-0 to the Lancers. "Can't do much more, just try as hard as you can."
In fighting through adversity alone, the Mustangs (11-7-3) did enough to not allow the lopsided loss to spoil the end of one of the greatest seasons the program's ever seen. Vasquez won the DML in the last league game of the season with a last-second goal.
Maybe providing even further solace, the Mustangs also didn't allow Grace Brethren to get out of Acton unscathed. The team that caught a bad break going into the playoffs gave the Lancers a broken nose.
More>
BASEBALL: Rosamond falls short against Buckley
May 18, 2013
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
SHERMAN OAKS — In an inning full of defensive mistakes on Friday, the Roadrunners were fazed with two possible outcomes.
One was granted clemency from the baseball gods so they could minimize the scoring damage. The other was an offensive demolishing by Buckley, the Roadrunners’ CIF-Southern Section Division 6 first-round opponent.
On a day with enough errors to spread over multiple innings, the Roadrunners got both, something that translated into a season-ending 13-0 loss.
“That’s your final score when we make as many errors as we did,” Rosamond coach Stan Lyons said.
The great total came out to 11 on this day. Four of them came in the second inning and four more took place in the fourth.
More>
ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
SHERMAN OAKS — In an inning full of defensive mistakes on Friday, the Roadrunners were fazed with two possible outcomes.
One was granted clemency from the baseball gods so they could minimize the scoring damage. The other was an offensive demolishing by Buckley, the Roadrunners’ CIF-Southern Section Division 6 first-round opponent.
On a day with enough errors to spread over multiple innings, the Roadrunners got both, something that translated into a season-ending 13-0 loss.
“That’s your final score when we make as many errors as we did,” Rosamond coach Stan Lyons said.
The great total came out to 11 on this day. Four of them came in the second inning and four more took place in the fourth.
More>
FOOTBALL: Lobos top Eagles for first GL victory
Nov. 2, 2013
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LITTLEROCK — For the Lobos, Friday was a night fit for two Kings.
King No. 1, Jordan King, rushed for 102 yards and two touchdowns; King No. 2, his brother Jason, bolted his way ahead for 121 rushing yards, leading Littlerock to a 21-14 Golden League win over Lancaster.
And so ended the tale of the Kings, as well as a 14-game losing streak in league for the Lobos (3-6, 1-5 GL), who won a Golden League game for the first time since 2011.
"I'm happy for the seniors, for the fans," Littlerock coach Adam Fabela said. "It was huge. They worked hard for it. First Golden League win in a long time."
The deciding sequence of the match came early in the fourth quarter. With the Lobos in territory of Lancaster (1-8, 0-6), Jason King found room in between the Eagles and got free for a 30-yard run that had the Lobos in the red zone. It all went for naught as a flag disallowed the play and backed Littlerock up all the way to midfield.
More>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LITTLEROCK — For the Lobos, Friday was a night fit for two Kings.
King No. 1, Jordan King, rushed for 102 yards and two touchdowns; King No. 2, his brother Jason, bolted his way ahead for 121 rushing yards, leading Littlerock to a 21-14 Golden League win over Lancaster.
And so ended the tale of the Kings, as well as a 14-game losing streak in league for the Lobos (3-6, 1-5 GL), who won a Golden League game for the first time since 2011.
"I'm happy for the seniors, for the fans," Littlerock coach Adam Fabela said. "It was huge. They worked hard for it. First Golden League win in a long time."
The deciding sequence of the match came early in the fourth quarter. With the Lobos in territory of Lancaster (1-8, 0-6), Jason King found room in between the Eagles and got free for a 30-yard run that had the Lobos in the red zone. It all went for naught as a flag disallowed the play and backed Littlerock up all the way to midfield.
More>
BASKETBALL: Antelopes dig out of hole, hold on for GL victory
Feb. 7, 2014
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER Going up against the hottest team in the Golden League not named Knight, things weren't looking promising for the Antelope Valley girls basketball team as the third quarter neared its end Thursday night and the Antelopes had yet to score their first points of the second half.
Eastside, which came into the night having won five of its last six games after starting league play 1-4, had the 'Lopes on the ropes, playing inspired defense worthy of a team on its way to the upper echelons of the Golden League.
"Our problem was our offense got stagnant," said Eastside coach Gerard Nelson after his team dropped the intense game 47-43.
The offensive struggles of the Lions (12-7, 6-6 GL), who raced out to a 20-9 lead after the first quarter but could only score 23 more points the rest of the way, was one of the reasons for the defeat. The other, perhaps a bigger one, was the never-say-die attitude of AV (13-8, 9-3).
More>
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LANCASTER Going up against the hottest team in the Golden League not named Knight, things weren't looking promising for the Antelope Valley girls basketball team as the third quarter neared its end Thursday night and the Antelopes had yet to score their first points of the second half.
Eastside, which came into the night having won five of its last six games after starting league play 1-4, had the 'Lopes on the ropes, playing inspired defense worthy of a team on its way to the upper echelons of the Golden League.
"Our problem was our offense got stagnant," said Eastside coach Gerard Nelson after his team dropped the intense game 47-43.
The offensive struggles of the Lions (12-7, 6-6 GL), who raced out to a 20-9 lead after the first quarter but could only score 23 more points the rest of the way, was one of the reasons for the defeat. The other, perhaps a bigger one, was the never-say-die attitude of AV (13-8, 9-3).
More>
SOCCER: Lobos salvage tie, into playoffs
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
LITTLEROCK — The scene following the postseason-bound Littlerock girls soccer team's 1-1 tie against Palmdale on Wednesday night was not one of a team who had just made the playoffs for a second consecutive season after never having qualified before.
The Lobos, who prior to 2012-13 had never played beyond the regular season, walked off the field heads down and shoulders slumped. A few dropped disappointedly to the grass as if they'd just been told they'd have to attend post-game math tutoring.
"I'm a little disappointed because I believe we could have won," Littlerock captain Odalis Travina said. "But I guess it's fine. I'm happy that we got the win. I mean, the tie."
Entering the last day of the regular season tied with Eastside for the fourth and last guaranteed playoff spot in the Golden League, the Lobos (8-7-1, 6-7-1 GL) knew they had to do their part against the Falcons (4-11-4, 3-9-2), plus hope for the Lions to stumble in their finale against undefeated Quartz Hill.
More>
LITTLEROCK — The scene following the postseason-bound Littlerock girls soccer team's 1-1 tie against Palmdale on Wednesday night was not one of a team who had just made the playoffs for a second consecutive season after never having qualified before.
The Lobos, who prior to 2012-13 had never played beyond the regular season, walked off the field heads down and shoulders slumped. A few dropped disappointedly to the grass as if they'd just been told they'd have to attend post-game math tutoring.
"I'm a little disappointed because I believe we could have won," Littlerock captain Odalis Travina said. "But I guess it's fine. I'm happy that we got the win. I mean, the tie."
Entering the last day of the regular season tied with Eastside for the fourth and last guaranteed playoff spot in the Golden League, the Lobos (8-7-1, 6-7-1 GL) knew they had to do their part against the Falcons (4-11-4, 3-9-2), plus hope for the Lions to stumble in their finale against undefeated Quartz Hill.
More>
SOCCER: Palmdale comes back to tie it, but misses playoffs
By ALONSO TACANGA/Valley Press Assistant Sports Editor
PALMDALE — Seven minutes into the game that would decide whether the Jarrod Cline era at Palmdale would see another day, the Falcons boys soccer team found itself in a 2-0 hole against Littlerock.
Not exactly the start Cline envisioned in what he hoped wouldn't be his last game.
"We knew we needed to win this game," said Cline, the nine-year Palmdale coach who's stepping down after this season. "A tie wasn't going to be good enough so we had to go for it."
In going for it, the Falcons (8-10-8, 4-4-6 GL) could do no better than an exciting 4-4 draw against a Lobos squad (8-3-5, 7-3-4) that started off looking dominant but ended up back on its heels.
The tie only served as a moral victory for Palmdale, which needed to win to grab the last Golden League playoff spot, and signified the end of an age in which Cline led the Falcons to eight straight postseason berths and a couple of deep playoff runs.
More>
PALMDALE — Seven minutes into the game that would decide whether the Jarrod Cline era at Palmdale would see another day, the Falcons boys soccer team found itself in a 2-0 hole against Littlerock.
Not exactly the start Cline envisioned in what he hoped wouldn't be his last game.
"We knew we needed to win this game," said Cline, the nine-year Palmdale coach who's stepping down after this season. "A tie wasn't going to be good enough so we had to go for it."
In going for it, the Falcons (8-10-8, 4-4-6 GL) could do no better than an exciting 4-4 draw against a Lobos squad (8-3-5, 7-3-4) that started off looking dominant but ended up back on its heels.
The tie only served as a moral victory for Palmdale, which needed to win to grab the last Golden League playoff spot, and signified the end of an age in which Cline led the Falcons to eight straight postseason berths and a couple of deep playoff runs.
More>
BASKETBALL: Turnovers costly for Falcons
BY ALONSO TACANGA Special to The Californian
March 10, 2012
MISSION HILLS -- As Independence coach Val Mancera called a timeout 2 minutes into the Falcons' CIF state playoff game against MissionHills-Alemany, it was clear his team's chances were going to rely heavily on its ability to limit its mistakes.
Independence guard Vanessa Mancera, had just been smothered by two trapping Alemany defenders and picked up her dribble. Not wanting to let the play become his team's fifth turnover of the night, the Independence coach asked for a timeout.
"You have to be able to make smart decisions," the coach said.
That early timeout worked, but the coach's message was lost somewhere between the second and third quarters of the Falcons' 57-33 loss Saturday night to the host Warriors.
More>
March 10, 2012
MISSION HILLS -- As Independence coach Val Mancera called a timeout 2 minutes into the Falcons' CIF state playoff game against MissionHills-Alemany, it was clear his team's chances were going to rely heavily on its ability to limit its mistakes.
Independence guard Vanessa Mancera, had just been smothered by two trapping Alemany defenders and picked up her dribble. Not wanting to let the play become his team's fifth turnover of the night, the Independence coach asked for a timeout.
"You have to be able to make smart decisions," the coach said.
That early timeout worked, but the coach's message was lost somewhere between the second and third quarters of the Falcons' 57-33 loss Saturday night to the host Warriors.
More>
BASKETBALL: Crescenta Valley finally ends drought against rival Muir
By Alonso Tacanga, Special to the Daily News
Updated: 02/01/2010 10:50:35 PM PST
Muir of Pasadena girls' basketball coach Gary Johnson had no explanation for what he witnessed Monday night from Crescenta Valley of La Crescenta senior guard Cassie Pappas.
"I don't know what Cassie came up with tonight," Johnson said following his team's 61-50 Pacific League loss to Pappas' Falcons. "But she probably had 40 points. She shot well."
Whatever Pappas - who actually finished with 22 points - thought of to finally snap the six-year winning streak Muir (13-7, 9-1) had over C.V. (19-4, 9-1), it came at the best possible time.
The Falcons' win split the season series between the teams and created a first-place tie with four games left.
More>
Updated: 02/01/2010 10:50:35 PM PST
Muir of Pasadena girls' basketball coach Gary Johnson had no explanation for what he witnessed Monday night from Crescenta Valley of La Crescenta senior guard Cassie Pappas.
"I don't know what Cassie came up with tonight," Johnson said following his team's 61-50 Pacific League loss to Pappas' Falcons. "But she probably had 40 points. She shot well."
Whatever Pappas - who actually finished with 22 points - thought of to finally snap the six-year winning streak Muir (13-7, 9-1) had over C.V. (19-4, 9-1), it came at the best possible time.
The Falcons' win split the season series between the teams and created a first-place tie with four games left.
More>
BASKETBALL: Golden Valley stands atop Foothill
By Alonso Tacanga, Special to the Daily News
Updated: 01/29/2010 11:36:34 PM PST
BOYS' BASKETBALL: Turnover as time expires seals Canyon's fate in league contest.
SANTA CLARITA -- Golden Valley had opened up the door just a crack yet again for Canyon to sneak in and pull off a stunner.
Leading by two with 4.2 seconds left in overtime, Taylor Statham had just missed two free throws and Wesley Bartole grabbed the rebound and charged ahead.
But in what had been a wire-to-wire, big-play-after-big-play Foothill League game for first place, Bartole did the unthinkable: He dribbled the ball off his leg.
Time expired, signaling an 80-78 victory for host Golden Valley on Friday night.
"I wanted to win it for my team, and I choked," Bartole said choking up tears.
More>
Updated: 01/29/2010 11:36:34 PM PST
BOYS' BASKETBALL: Turnover as time expires seals Canyon's fate in league contest.
SANTA CLARITA -- Golden Valley had opened up the door just a crack yet again for Canyon to sneak in and pull off a stunner.
Leading by two with 4.2 seconds left in overtime, Taylor Statham had just missed two free throws and Wesley Bartole grabbed the rebound and charged ahead.
But in what had been a wire-to-wire, big-play-after-big-play Foothill League game for first place, Bartole did the unthinkable: He dribbled the ball off his leg.
Time expired, signaling an 80-78 victory for host Golden Valley on Friday night.
"I wanted to win it for my team, and I choked," Bartole said choking up tears.
More>
BASKETBALL: Harvard-Westlake finds way to survive Chatsworth's rally
By Alonso Tacanga, Special to the Daily News
Updated: 01/24/2010 01:08:27 AM PST
Following an offensive foul and a technical for disputing the call, Chatsworth girls' basketball guard Monica Jackson walked in dejection toward the end of her team's bench, dropped herself onto a seat and crossed her arms in disgust.
Forced to sit after having picked up her fourth foul in only the first quarter and with the host Chancellors trailing state power Harvard-Westlake of Studio City by double digits, Jackson saw her Saturday night going downhill in a hurry.
"I was devastated," Jackson said.
Jackson had to sit until the second half and waited until the fourth quarter to shred off the Wolverines' defense in such a manner that had Chatsworth on the verge of a monumental upset. But the Chancellors ran out of time and lost 70-67.
More>
Updated: 01/24/2010 01:08:27 AM PST
Following an offensive foul and a technical for disputing the call, Chatsworth girls' basketball guard Monica Jackson walked in dejection toward the end of her team's bench, dropped herself onto a seat and crossed her arms in disgust.
Forced to sit after having picked up her fourth foul in only the first quarter and with the host Chancellors trailing state power Harvard-Westlake of Studio City by double digits, Jackson saw her Saturday night going downhill in a hurry.
"I was devastated," Jackson said.
Jackson had to sit until the second half and waited until the fourth quarter to shred off the Wolverines' defense in such a manner that had Chatsworth on the verge of a monumental upset. But the Chancellors ran out of time and lost 70-67.
More>
BASKETBALL: Five is enough for Chatsworth
By Alonso Tacanga, Special to the Daily News
Updated: 01/15/2010 11:24:34 PM PST
As Chatsworth High girls' basketball guard Monica Jackson dribbled out the final seconds of her team's inexplicable 63-58 overtime win over visiting Taft of Woodland Hills on Friday night, she only had one thought in her mind.
"Thank God," she said.
That Jackson and the Chancellors came out winners of the West Valley League tussle bordered a bit on the miraculous.
Chatsworth (6-6, 1-1) had to overcome what was an uphill battle in which it suited up only five players and fell behind by double digits.
Following her 41-point performance Wednesday against Birmingham of Lake Balboa, Jackson scored 40 Friday and played the catalyst once more.
The guard stole a Taft inbounds pass with 13 seconds to go in regulation and dished it to teammate Jasmine Wooton, who tied it at 53-53 and sent the game into overtime. Thirty seconds before that, the Toreadors (7-6, 1-1) led 53-49.
More>
Updated: 01/15/2010 11:24:34 PM PST
As Chatsworth High girls' basketball guard Monica Jackson dribbled out the final seconds of her team's inexplicable 63-58 overtime win over visiting Taft of Woodland Hills on Friday night, she only had one thought in her mind.
"Thank God," she said.
That Jackson and the Chancellors came out winners of the West Valley League tussle bordered a bit on the miraculous.
Chatsworth (6-6, 1-1) had to overcome what was an uphill battle in which it suited up only five players and fell behind by double digits.
Following her 41-point performance Wednesday against Birmingham of Lake Balboa, Jackson scored 40 Friday and played the catalyst once more.
The guard stole a Taft inbounds pass with 13 seconds to go in regulation and dished it to teammate Jasmine Wooton, who tied it at 53-53 and sent the game into overtime. Thirty seconds before that, the Toreadors (7-6, 1-1) led 53-49.
More>
BASKETBALL: CSUN men lose seventh straight
By Alonso Tacanga, Special to the Daily News
Updated: 01/07/2010 11:56:33 PM PST
Confidence is not at an all-time high for the two-time defending Big West Conference champion Cal State Northridge men's basketball team, especially after its latest loss, 65-62 at home to UC Irvine on Thursday night.
The loss was the seventh consecutive for the Matadors (4-10, 0-3 Big West) - a career worst for CSUN coach Bobby Braswell - and dropped them to 0-3 in the conference.
"We got ourselves a hole," Braswell said. "Especially not winning at home."
The Matadors had countless chances especially in crunch time.
More>
Updated: 01/07/2010 11:56:33 PM PST
Confidence is not at an all-time high for the two-time defending Big West Conference champion Cal State Northridge men's basketball team, especially after its latest loss, 65-62 at home to UC Irvine on Thursday night.
The loss was the seventh consecutive for the Matadors (4-10, 0-3 Big West) - a career worst for CSUN coach Bobby Braswell - and dropped them to 0-3 in the conference.
"We got ourselves a hole," Braswell said. "Especially not winning at home."
The Matadors had countless chances especially in crunch time.
More>
BASKETBALL: Jackson, Valencia too much for Granada Hills in championship
Alonso Tacanga / Los Angeles Daily News
Published: Thursday, December 31, 2009
With a big lead with 1:30 to go in the third quarter of Wednesday night's Chaminade boys' basketball tournament championship game, Valencia guard Lonnie Jackson saw coach Rocket Collins giving the officiating crew a hand cleaning up a wet spot on the floor.
Jackson looked on intently as if he wanted to get in the mop-up drill himself. That wasn't surprising, seeing how he did everything but sell popcorn in leading the Vikings to a wire-to-wire 74-48 win.
"He's a team player," Collins said of Jackson, the tournament's leading scorer and MVP. "He always does everything."
Jackson, who passed on the chance at a cameo as a custodian, took a seat next to Collins soon after the end of the quarter, with the Vikings (10-2) leading 60-33. Jackson finished with 25 points -- 15 in the first half -- six rebounds, and several unregistered assists and intangibles.
More>
Published: Thursday, December 31, 2009
With a big lead with 1:30 to go in the third quarter of Wednesday night's Chaminade boys' basketball tournament championship game, Valencia guard Lonnie Jackson saw coach Rocket Collins giving the officiating crew a hand cleaning up a wet spot on the floor.
Jackson looked on intently as if he wanted to get in the mop-up drill himself. That wasn't surprising, seeing how he did everything but sell popcorn in leading the Vikings to a wire-to-wire 74-48 win.
"He's a team player," Collins said of Jackson, the tournament's leading scorer and MVP. "He always does everything."
Jackson, who passed on the chance at a cameo as a custodian, took a seat next to Collins soon after the end of the quarter, with the Vikings (10-2) leading 60-33. Jackson finished with 25 points -- 15 in the first half -- six rebounds, and several unregistered assists and intangibles.
More>
BASKETBALL: CSUN gets physical in home opener
Alonso Tacanga / Special to the Los Angeles Daily News
Published: Tuesday, December 1, 2009
The Cal State Bakersfield men’s basketball team had all the fight in the world coming into Monday night’s game against Cal State Northridge at the Matadome.
That was clear when guard Bryan Emanuel took the Matadors’ Mark Hill to the floor trying to intercept a pass and almost stepped on him; and when 260-pound forward Santwon Latunde dropped Willie Galick on his rear while the CSUN player was trying to post up.
But the Matadors eventually met the Roadrunners’ physicality - as evidenced by Kenny Daniels’ takedown of Emanuel with a shot to the face while attempting to block a pass - and with 19 points from backup guard Vinnie McGhee squeaked by Bakersfield 81-74 in a bruising home opener.
“He led our team to victory,” Galick said of McGhee, who’s battling Hill for the starting point guard job.
More>
Published: Tuesday, December 1, 2009
The Cal State Bakersfield men’s basketball team had all the fight in the world coming into Monday night’s game against Cal State Northridge at the Matadome.
That was clear when guard Bryan Emanuel took the Matadors’ Mark Hill to the floor trying to intercept a pass and almost stepped on him; and when 260-pound forward Santwon Latunde dropped Willie Galick on his rear while the CSUN player was trying to post up.
But the Matadors eventually met the Roadrunners’ physicality - as evidenced by Kenny Daniels’ takedown of Emanuel with a shot to the face while attempting to block a pass - and with 19 points from backup guard Vinnie McGhee squeaked by Bakersfield 81-74 in a bruising home opener.
“He led our team to victory,” Galick said of McGhee, who’s battling Hill for the starting point guard job.
More>
CROSS COUNTRY: Monroe claims City Section team title
Alonso Tacanga / Special to the Los Angeles Daily News
Published: Sunday, November 22, 2009
Making his way downhill Saturday at the City cross country finals at Pierce College, a lone runner from San Pedro High trotted his way to a landslide win.
Behind him was the entire Monroe High team.
"We always run together, like a pack of wolves. Always," Monroe senior Jorge Mendez said.
And it paid off.
The Vikings finished well behind San Pedro senior Pablo Rosales, who won the individual championship in a City record 14 minutes, 31 seconds, but they eventually crossed the finish line one after another, earning five top-20 finishes to record their second straight City team championship.
"Everyone's like, `Wow, look at Monroe."' said Mendez, who finished a team-best fifth at 15:23.
He was followed by the rest of his team.
"You got my No. 1 guy and then my No. 2, and automatically No. 3, 4 and 5 are going to be right there," Monroe coach Leo Hernandez said. "We're just lucky we can run that way."
More>
Published: Sunday, November 22, 2009
Making his way downhill Saturday at the City cross country finals at Pierce College, a lone runner from San Pedro High trotted his way to a landslide win.
Behind him was the entire Monroe High team.
"We always run together, like a pack of wolves. Always," Monroe senior Jorge Mendez said.
And it paid off.
The Vikings finished well behind San Pedro senior Pablo Rosales, who won the individual championship in a City record 14 minutes, 31 seconds, but they eventually crossed the finish line one after another, earning five top-20 finishes to record their second straight City team championship.
"Everyone's like, `Wow, look at Monroe."' said Mendez, who finished a team-best fifth at 15:23.
He was followed by the rest of his team.
"You got my No. 1 guy and then my No. 2, and automatically No. 3, 4 and 5 are going to be right there," Monroe coach Leo Hernandez said. "We're just lucky we can run that way."
More>
BASKETBALL: Grizzlies' Haddadi leaves large footprint during camp at CSUN
Alonso Tacanga / Special to the Los Angeles Daily News
Published: Sunday, September 13, 2009
Hamed Haddadi let a half-court shot fly as 100 kids looked on. It was his camp, so it would have been fitting to hit the difficult attempt.
Unfortunately for the Iranian - the first ever to play in the NBA - he was just short, and the ball grazed off the front of the rim as the youngsters groaned in disappointment.
Then the Lakers’ Ron Artest picked up a ball and launched a nothing-but-net half-court 3-pointer.
The kids went nuts.
“Very nice of (Artest) to come out,” said a smiling Haddadi, the Memphis Grizzlies’ 7-foot-2 center who is hosting the youth basketball camp (which finishes today) at Cal State Northridge.
It was that kind of afternoon Saturday. Haddadi appeared to a group of loud-cheering campers, most of whom were of Iranian descent. He had them hanging by his every word and dunk. Artest, the Lakers’ new forward, entered the room two hours later, and the campers yelled as if they had witnessed a winning shot at the buzzer.
Yes, Artest took away some of Haddadi’s spotlight Saturday.
More>