The San Diego Mesa College women's basketball team made an impressive showing behind a quartet of freshmen on Friday night, defeating Cerritos College 61-34, extending their win streak to three.

Alethze Marquez (Helix HS) led the team in scoring with 14 points and 11 rebounds. Kendal Alloway (Eastlake HS) added 13 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. Rayleen Moreno (Montgomery HS) contributed with 11 points, 5 rebounds, 4 steals, and 3 assists. Alivia Gillespie (Oceanside HS) turned in 10 points, 5 assists, and 3 steals. 

Head coach Lindsay Samaniego mentions the attention to detail by the defense, along with smart decisions with the ball, is leading to success. She adds, "the girls have been working hard on their individual skills and have been locked in with our game plans since the start of the season."

Another reason for the success is the ability to score in different ways. "We don't have to rely on any one individual to score," adds Samaniego. "Any of our players have the ability to make an impact. We are getting more comfortable with each other, and when we share the ball, and make the right basketball play, we will be tough to beat." Against Cerritos,, Marquez exploded with a double-double. "She's getting more confident on the court and we can see her confidence growing with her teammates,' continues Samaniego. "Her hard work is starting to show what she's capable of offensively. She's only going to get better and will make a big impact for us."

The team will host Mt. San Jacinto College on Wednesday. The Eagles are currently 8-2 and sit atop the Inland Empire Athletic Conference.