UPDATE: The CIF-Southern Section girls basketball and soccer playoffs kicked off on February 12, 2023, with a remarkable 13 teams from the High Desert clinching spots in the second round. The competition is fierce, and the stakes are high as these young athletes aim for victory.
In girls basketball, six teams have advanced, while five soccer teams have also secured their places in the next round, scheduled for Saturday. Six of these crucial matchups will take place in the High Desert, making it a weekend not to be missed for local sports fans.
In a thrilling playoff opener, Mira Costa edged out Oak Hills with a final score of 45-39. Despite a strong start, the Bulldogs faced challenges in the second quarter, with star player Kahlis Carlton exiting the game due to a broken finger. With the score tied at 34-34 in the final moments, Mira Costa’s late-game surge sealed their victory and a matchup against Valencia, who dominated Chino 76-44.
Silver Valley achieved a stunning upset, defeating the No. 2 seed Valley Christian 54-51. Naomi Durrah shone with an impressive 35 points, leading her team to victory. With two seconds left, Aubrey White’s free-throw was the deciding moment, ensuring Silver Valley will host Warren, who triumphed over Fontana 50-37.
Barstow’s Emily Franco was a standout performer in their 47-45 victory against Coastal Christian, scoring 25 points and contributing significantly on both ends of the court. The Aztecs will face Burroughs, who defeated Chaffey 40-32.
In an edge-of-the-seat finish, University Prep narrowly defeated Anaheim 40-38, thanks to Camila Zapeta’s game-winning shot with just 19 seconds remaining. The Jaguars will host Norwalk, who overcame Elsinore 44-36.
Victor Valley Christian celebrated their first playoff victory since 2020, defeating Saddleback 28-26. Olivia Metler led her team with 10 points and vital defensive contributions. The Royals are set to host Santa Clarita Christian, who won against Webb 38-32.
On the soccer field, Granite Hills showcased a dominating performance with a 4-2 victory over Culver City, propelled by Lianna Tsabur’s four-goal game. They will now host Temescal Canyon, who beat Santa Fe 3-0.
Riverside Prep also made headlines with a commanding 5-0 win against Gahr, with Jimena Nunez leading the charge. The Silver Knights will travel to face Segerstrom, who defeated Palmdale 2-0.
Adelanto continued their playoff success with a 3-0 victory over Temecula Prep, securing their spot in the second round for the third consecutive year. They look forward to hosting top-seeded Beverly Hills, who advanced after a nail-biting penalty shootout against Knight.
With the playoffs heating up, fans are encouraged to stay tuned for more updates and support their teams in these critical matchups. The excitement is palpable as High Desert athletes strive to make their mark in the CIF-SS playoffs!
