No. 10 San José City College moves on to the second round of regionals

The San José City Jags made their first CCCAA Nothern California Regionals Playoffs appearance since the 2017-2018 season, and they started their post-season off strong by beating the No.23 Modesto Junior College Pirates 42-32.   

In the first half, the Jags' defense put the pressure on the Pirates with a full-court press, forcing turnovers and tough shots. The Pirates responded aggressively, committing numerous fouls that led to free-throw opportunities for the Jags. By the end of the first half, the Jags had sunk 10 of 10 from the line to put them up 24-7.  

Going into the second half with a 17-point lead, the Pirates' offense exploded with 13 points as the Jags went into cruise control. At the end of the third quarter, the Pirates sank a deep 3-point buzzer-beater to close the gap 32-20. They continued their momentum into the fourth quarter, but more unnecessary fouls on the defensive end helped the Jags maintain their lead.  

Desperate, the Pirates made careless mistakes with three traveling calls that took the ball out of their hands. Izzy Campbell scored the Jags' only two buckets of the quarter and made 2 of their six free throws to win the first round of regionals.  

Campbell led all scorers with 14 points, nine rebounds, and one block. Jada Nguyen added 6 points with eight rebounds, five steals, and two blocks. Madison Diaz contributed 5 points with one rebound, assist, and steal.   

On the defensive end, the Jags ended the night with thirty-seven rebounds, fifteen steals, and eight blocks. Kira Levandoski had eleven rebounds and four blocks. Xiana Torres had four steals, and Zara Dumatol had three steals.  

On the line, the Jags went 16 for 22 making up one-third of their points, along with two three-pointers and seven assists.   

The Jags will play the second round of regionals in an away game against No. 7 Laney College on Feb. 25 at 6:00 PM.