Both Men and Women's Tiger basketball teams were victorious at COS for yesterday's double-header in Visalia. The wins had different implications for each program, but were equally satisfying and needed.
The men grabbed their first CVC win; snapping a 9-game losing streak, since there last win at the CRC tournament where the team was involved in a van accident that resulted in a No-Contest for the last game of that tournament. Fortunately no-one was seriously hurt. Since then, the team has continued to battle with a positive attitude just coming up short in several games. The hard work finally paid off--and in grand style--with a 64-63 win last night over a strong 16-5 COS team.
"It was a total team effort...I'm so proud of them as they deserved this victory" said coach Jennings. A very balanced team performance with strong defense and double-digit scoring by Kecian Primes (18), Jayden Abuyen (14), Kyriaun Davis (11), and Matt Ruegge (10). The Tigers went 42% for FG shooting and 100% from the free-throw line. Their largest lead was 13 before Kyriaun Davis scored the game winner after being down by one with 14 seconds to go. The men's team is now 1-6 in CVC play and 5-16 overall. Their next game is this Saturday Feb 3rd at 3pm vs. West Hills - Coalinga
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Meanwhile, the Women's TIger Basketball team battled back to finish strong in the 4th quarter to earn sole control of 2nd place in the CVC with a 67-60 comeback win!
The Tigers did not start sharp with the score after the 1st quarter at 5-23. Most teams would hang their heads, but they pounded the boards with 53 rebounds and finished strong in the 4th quarter. Coach Kilbert stated, "this is a testimony to the determination and never-say-die attitude of this team!" Once they got going, we had four players in double digits (McGrath-10; Newsome-10; Truong-12; Marigney-23). Leyocha Marigney had an epic night with 25 rebounds to add to her 23 points, along with 5 blocks. The Tigers finished strong in the fourth with 22points to COS's 11pts.
Next up for the Tigers will be Taft College at home this Saturday, Feb 3rd at 5pm.
