Chris Helms goes up for a shot for Paloma Valley. (Photo by Action Captures Media)
Paloma Valley’s boys basketball team lost a heart-breaker that ended its season Wednesday night, but it didn’t take away from coach Derrick O’Neil’s enthusiasm about the progress the Wildcats made this season.
“We finished up our season 15-14 overall and 8-2 in league, which was second place,” O’Neil said after Paloma Valley’s 43-42 loss to Highland in the first round of the CIF playoffs. “We made the playoffs for the second consecutive year, even after we moved up to the Sunbelt League.
“Yes, we may have lost in the first round, but we won so many battles that have now elevated us as a program. Wildcat Nation!”
A Paloma Valley shot that came up short with seven seconds left was the Wildcats’ last attempt to pull out a win, but meanwhile, there were some impressive individual performances.
Rey Rivas finished with 15 points. Chris Helms had 11 rebounds, 6 points, and recorded his 100th career block – a school record.
Zy’Mir Montgomery makes a driving layup. (Photo by Action Captures Media)
Ashton Nash goes to the hoop. (Photo by Action Captures Media)
Michael Salas goes up between two defenders. (Photo by Action Captures Media)
Rey Rivas brings the ball up the court. (Photo by Action Captures Media)
Garcia is fouled on the drive. (Photo by Action Captures Media)
