Merced and Atwater matched up for their fourth league game of the season on Merced’s home court on January 22nd. With both teams entering the game holding identical 2–1 league records, the contest carried added significance in the CCC standings.
Merced got on the board early when freshman Aleena Trevino made a three-pointer to open the scoring. Atwater responded quickly with points from Natalia Melgoza, while Merced answered back through scores from Averie Steverson and Aaliyah Garrett to keep the game close. The quarter remained competitive with both teams trading baskets, but Atwater was able to pull ahead late with a short scoring run. By the end of the first quarter, Atwater held a 12-9 lead.
Atwater continued to build on its momentum to start the second quarter, extending their lead with swift scoring on the offensive end. Merced struggled to make baskets on several opportunities which allowed the Falcons to widen the gap. Amaya Brown contributed offensively for the Bears with a three-pointer, but Atwater answered with multiple baskets, including a three-pointer that pushed the lead further. Despite a late field goal from Garrett to keep Merced within reach, Atwater closed out the half in control with the score reading Falcons 29, Bears 16.
Merced came out with new zeal in the third quarter as Averie Steverson led the way with a pair of two-point baskets and three free throws to cut into the Falcon’s lead. Atwater relied on Makenzie Wilkinson, who hit a pair of three-pointers to keep the Falcons ahead. Both teams traded baskets back and forth, with Merced showing more aggression under the net in the second half. The Bears scored 15 points in the quarter, but Atwater was able to match them nearly point for point. By the end of the third quarter, the score was 43-31.
In the final quarter, Merced’s Aaliyah Garrett and Antonia Lejarde both stepped up for the Bears. Lejarde hit a three point shot and a free throw while Garrett made a pair of field goals. However, Atwater was able to get to the free throw line throughout the quarter and sank six free throws and four field goals. Despite Merced’s efforts to close the gap, Atwater’s defense held firm. In the final minutes, Atwater extended their advantage and sealed the game with a late two-pointer, ending the match with a 57-41 victory.
Freshman Makenzie Wilkinson, who was the game’s highest scorer with 17 points, said the team’s main focus was on defense. “Honestly, just get stops and play good defense,” she explained, emphasizing how crucial it was to disrupt Merced’s offense early and often. She also praised the chemistry on offense, noting, “When I get my shots, my teammates are very supportive.”
Looking ahead, Merced will return home to face the Golden Valley Cougars on January 27th, while Atwater prepares to host Buhach Colony. With tonight’s win, the Falcons currently hold second place in the CCC league standings.
- Photos by Grace Gallegos. ↩︎
