Mycah Mason leads in the key on his way to two points. (Photo by Action Captures Media)
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Mycah Mason scored 22 points to lead the scoring attack as the Santa Rosa Academy boys basketball team defeated Warner High Friday night, 76-49.
Christian Gonzalez scored 16 points, Cory Moore 13, and Chase Snell 9 for the Rangers, who improved their overall record to 15-8 (7-4 in the South Valley League for third place). Snell finished with 10 rebounds. Elijah Brewer contributed 6 points and 8 rebounds.
Santa Rosa Academy broke the game open with a 22-6 scoring advantage in the second quarter.
“Warner came into the game 16-3 as the top team in their division, handling opponents with ease in the San Diego Section, so we were excited for the challenge and opportunity to measure ourselves,” said SRA coach Tom Crunk.
“I’m extremely proud of our defensive focus. Our game plan was to make life difficult for their No. 5 (Bradly Guachino), one of the best shooters in their division, and we executed it. Holding him to just 10 points took discipline, effort, and commitment from everyone. We didn’t allow him to get comfortable or find any rhythm, and that set the tone for the night.
“That defensive effort extended well beyond one matchup. We finished with a season high in rebounds (52) and a +20 rebounding margin, which speaks to our physicality and collective effort. When we play aggressive but disciplined, we’re a tough matchup for anyone.
“Offensively, everyone contributed in key moments, especially in the second quarter. Elijah Brewer’s energy and hustle were contagious and really got us going. Christian Gonzalez followed with back-to-back plays, a 3-pointer and a strong finish at the rim, and then Mycah Mason knocked down three straight 3s to help us create separation heading into halftime.”
The Rangers opened the game sluggishly, missing a handful of early layups and giving up a few baskets due to defensive communication breakdowns. Warner capitalized just enough to take a narrow 15-13 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Momentum shifted quickly in the second. As Santa Rosa’s defensive intensity picked up, so did the shot-making. The Rangers locked in on the perimeter and controlled the glass, holding Warner to just 6 points in the quarter. Offensively, Mason sparked the run by knocking down multiple 3-pointers, while Gonzalez consistently created quality looks for teammates. Santa Rosa closed the half on a decisive 22–6 run, heading into the break with a 35–21 advantage.
The Rangers came out of halftime firing, delivering their most explosive quarter of the season. Santa Rosa poured in 32 points in the third, fueled by aggressive on-ball defense that disrupted Warner’s rhythm and limited clean looks in the half court. Snell and Brewer provided key energy plays on the boards and in transition, turning defensive stops into quick scoring opportunities. Gonzalez continued to orchestrate the offense, keeping the ball moving as Santa Rosa stretched the lead beyond reach.
With control firmly established, the Rangers maintained their defensive pressure and unselfish play the rest of the way, finishing with 27 assists on 30 made field goals. The balanced team effort and sustained intensity allowed Santa Rosa to close out the game comfortably and secure the win.
The Rangers play a nonleague home game against Heritage on Monday.
Elijah Brewer takes a shot for the Rangers. (Photo by Action Captures Media)
Christian Gonzalez handles the ball in the front court. (Photo by Action Captures Media)
Mycah Mason works the ball down low. (Photo by Action Captures Media)
Chase Snell drives to the basket. (Photo by Action Captures Media)
