Panthers Return From Break Strong, Defeat Fullerton

While many took advantage of the holiday break, the Panthers were working, using the much-needed time to recuperate from both injuries and the lingering illness that had plagued the team since November. The break proved beneficial, as the Panthers dominated Fullerton College 64-53 for their second consecutive win. 

The team's overall performance has been very positive. In the last two games, the Panthers have dominated the boards, outrebounding their opponents 98-75, with a 53-47 advantage against SBVC and a 42-31 advantage against Fullerton. Additionally, the Panthers have significantly reduced their turnovers and scored 38 points in the paint against the Wolverines. 

As Head Coach Kendyl Rizea emphatically stated, "It's about time they showed up with that killer instinct we know they have."  This team has proven its ability to beat any opponent all season, and the last two games have demonstrated that the team finally possesses the killer instinct the coaching staff has been seeking. Rizea added that this season has been about aligning the team's identity on both offense and defense, likening it to assembling a puzzle, and that for three quarters, it truly showed.  

Fatimah Sani had a standout performance, dominating on both offense and defense. Sani led the Panthers in scoring with 20 points, shooting an impressive 64.3% from the field (9-14). She also recorded a double-double, grabbing 22 rebounds (8 offensive). Additionally, Sani contributed 2 assists, 3 steals, and 2 blocks. Danielle Singley also had a strong game, scoring 15 points, including 3 three-pointers, and adding 6 rebounds and 2 assists. 

Aleksia Gadea contributed 10 points, 4 rebounds, 1 steal, and 1 block. Aerilynn Young continues to be a spark off the bench, adding 9 points, 2 rebounds, and a steal. 

The coaching staff and players alike are not surprised by their strong performances against teams like Fullerton. "We are excited about the outcome but want to emphasize that we are not surprised," adds Rizea. "We know that we can compete at this level, and we want our players to experience it coming together so they too can recognize their capabilities." 

The team is back in action on Saturday, January 4th, as they travel to face a solid Cerro Coso team. The Coyotes are having a strong season with a current record of 10-3 and have been ranked as high as #13 in the state by the California Community College Women's Basketball Coaches Association (CCCWBCA). Tip-off is scheduled for 1:00 p.m.