GILROY — After jumping out to a 22-point lead at the end of the first, the Gilroy girls basketball team was able to relax and just play its game.
Thanks to a plethora of fast breaks and open looks, the Mustangs rolled to a 60-20 win over the visiting Monterey Tuesday.
“I think overall we just wanted to work, play a solid game and get better today — that was our goal,” Mustangs coach Mitchell Piece said. “We just wanted to get better. The starters stepped up and did a great job. Our bench players came in and played with intensity. I’m happy. I think we played better tonight.”
The defense was solid, holding the Toredores to just seven field goals while putting down 26 on offense. Monterey scored just four points in the first quarter, all of which game from free throws.
“We always work hard against this team and make sure we play good defense,” Brianna Barron said. “We never give up. We never stop playing hard and that’s why we got this win.”
Barron shared high scorer honors with Nia Pollard as both posted 10 points in the game. Barron added three rebounds and two blocks, while Pollard had three rebounds, three assists and a block.
“I’m just really happy that Bri (Brianna Barron), when she dribbles, she’s able to look up,” Pollard said. “I’m always sprinting down court, so it allows me to get an open look.”
Adonai Valencia led the defensive effort, pulling down five rebounds in the game. The night was extra special for her as she was serenaded with the “Happy Birthday” song after the game. Valencia scored four points, including the only 3-point bucket of the evening.
Four other Mustangs — Maddy Cox, Holly Lam, Leilani Mah and Sam Delatorre — posted eight points in the game. Gilroy (9-7 overall, 6-1 in league) has won its last three straight and will head to Pajaro Valley Thursday for a 7 p.m. contest.
While success has been on their side, Pierce said the best is still yet to come for the Mustangs.
“I think offensively we’re starting to find a rhythm with certain plays,” he said. “We haven’t quite caught our stride yet, but we’re hoping to get there soon.”
