After dropping the season opener to Fullerton College 77-72, the Olympians got back on the winning track by upending Saddleback College 68-53 on Thursday night at the Grossmont Crossover. 

Head coach Lindsay Samaniego explains despite the season opener loss, the entire team did a better job paying attention to detail both on offense and defense. “We definitely did a lot better and expect us to continue improving,” adds Samaniego. “Our decision making offensively was the biggest difference. Wenalso assisted on more than half of our made baskets.” 

Last season, the Olympians struggled on rebounds. This year, with a taller line up, and a focus on doing the small things correctly, rebounding is starting to show as one of the team's strengths. Mesa outrebounded Fullerton College 54 to 38 and Saddleback College 61 to 47. 

“We definitely struggled last season on the boards,” adds Samaniego. “We are taller this year and we will create a mindset to be relentless on the boards. We have to continue committing to strong rebounding and sharing the ball is going to be a big reason for our success this season.

The team will have their first road game of the season as they travel to take on Santa Monica College on Thursday, November 9. Game is scheduled for a 1:00 p.m. start.