By JOE NAGY
Staff Writer
In their first league game on Friday night, January 6, Girls Varsity Basketball defeated Beckman with a final score of 64-43.
Leading up to the fourth quarter, the girl’s basketball team was on a roll. Having only been outscored in the third and only allowing two points in the second, the girl’s final quarter of the game was a relaxed one as they clinched their first league win.
Throughout the fourth, the Trojans did what they have been able to do all season and that is share the ball. On the offense, Karissa Shin (Jr.) led by scoring 15 points, the most out of the eight Trojan scorers. As the final buzzer went off, the Trojans were able to defeat the Beckman Patriots with a score of 64-43.
One notable player was Malia Goldsmith (So.) who had 14 points of her own to add to an impressive 197 for the season. Goldsmith as of this week, has placed in the top 21 in Orange County for most points scored, with only two other girls as sophomores.
“I try to do what is needed of me whether it is scoring, passing or being defensive,” Goldsmith said when asked about her achievement.
The first quarter of the game started off a bit rough; however, started to smooth itself out as the game continued. With swift ball movement and great defense, the girls went into the second quarter leading the Patriots 17-8.
The Trojan’s showed fire in the second quarter when the team went all out defensively holding Beckman to only two points.Great defense led to easy offense with good shots coming in bunches for top scorers Shin and Goldsmith. The Trojans went into the half leading the Patriots 35-10.
Another key player was forward and Captain Kaci Blailock (Sr.). She was able to record six points 11 rebounds, two assists and two steals.
When asked on how she felt about the team’s performance she showed pride in the way the girl’s competed. She said “Everyone’s contribution to scoring helped us gain a huge lead and achieve the win.”
With a lead of 25 points, the Trojan bench came into play and was able to keep a steady hold on the Patriots. Throughout the second half, teamwork and good ball movement allowed University to keep the lead until the end of the game.
UHS’ overall record in the season, following the win over Beckman, is 11-4 and the Lady Trojans are currently first in PCL.
In their next game, the girls will face off against Northwood who is currently 0-1 after a loss to Irvine. The girls played an all and all good game and if they can keep this momentum throughout league, the Trojans will be a sure team to watch in CIF playoffs.
