Comets end series in action-packed showdown

LEMOORE, CA (3/10/2022) -- In arguably the best matchup of the day No. 4 seed Palomar came up just short against the No. 1 seed San Joaquin Delta College with a score of 72-66, in the quarterfinal round of the CCCAA State Championship tournament, proving they deserved to be higher than the No. 4 seed. The two powerhouse teams have never met and the matchup promised to be a good one. The game saw four ties and five lead changes. 

While the Comets finished the first half down by five, they came out hot in the third quarter to outscore the Mustangs 23-17, thanks in large part to a half-court buzzer-beater by freshman guard Deajanae Harvey. They kept the momentum going in the fourth and seemed like they were going to live to see another day, but came up just short.

The Comets stuck with small ball the majority of the game and the game plan proved efficient, especially in the second and third quarters. Palomar's defense was top notch as well, keeping Delta to 35.1% in the field and just 20.6% at the 3-point line. 

Sophomore forward/guard Sara Ahmadpour had her best performance in a Comet uniform against the Mustangs. She finally recorded her first double-double, a feat that has eluded her all season, as she finished with 23 points, 10 rebounds one assist and one steal. She knocked down seven three pointers, finishing 8-11 in the field. Harvey finished with 23 points, eight rebounds and six steals. 

Palomar finished their season with a 26-3 record and a perfect 14-0 conference record. This was their fourth Elite Eight appearance in six years and with a young team, there is no doubt they'll be back.

Congrats Comets on an outstanding season!