Oaks Christian Girls Lose in Finals
December 12, 2009
Jack Pollon
The Oaks Christian of Westlake Village girls basketball team faced its biggest test of the young season Saturday in the championship game of the Buena of Ventura tournament against Ventura.
The Lions, who have only one senior starter passed the test with a valiant effort but didn’t ace the exam in a 51-46 setback.
“We didn’t shoot very well and we were caught off guard on defense a few times,” Oaks Christian coach Andre Chevalier said.
The Lions battled back from a 12 point deficit to cut the lead to one at 47-46 after a Brianna Barrett free throw but Amy Pupa and Maddie Fahan each hit two free throws down the stretch to hold off Oaks Christian.
Oaks Christian (7-1) missed several opportunities as Barrett had a chance to tie the game but missed a free throw and sophomore Meghan McIntyre was standing on the out of bounds line as she tried to attempt a game tying three pointer with three seconds remaining.
Brooks had 15 points to lead Oaks Christian, including 10 in the fourth quarter to lead the spirited comeback.
McIntyre had 15 points and Barrett had nine despite a 2 of 14 shooting performance from the field.
“It was an early season loss that we need to learn and grow from,” Chevalier said. “As long as we get better we will be fine.”
The Lions took a 14-9 lead after one quarter but Ventura settled down, ran its offense and executed to grab a four point lead by halftime and never trailed again.
Maddie Fahan had 17 points and Amy Pupa had 14 to lead the Cougars (8-0).
Royal of Simi Valley took third place in a 58-45 victory against Marmonte League rival Newbury Park.
Destinee LaFountain had 14 points and Gabbi King added 12 for the Highlanders (7-1), under the direction of former player Kinsley Mittel, one of the regions youngest varsity coaches.
Chelsea Jacoby had 12 points and freshman Aubree Mittel, the coach’s sister chipped in with nine.
Royal took a 27-12 lead early in the first half and never looked back.
Jasmine Polk scored 16 points to lead Newbury Park.