GIRLS’ BASKETBALL SPORT SHORTS, 2008-09–
(Latest girls’ basketball shorts will be at the top of the section. Scroll down to check out past results. Tournament games do not count toward win/loss record. Visit the Sports Section for girls’ basketball features.)

For the 2008-09 schedule or standings and stats, check out Maxpreps.com. FC finished the season at 22-7 overall, and 8-0 in the West Sequoia League.

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL, 2008-09

UPDATE: April 4 The Fresno Bee named Larissa Hensley to its 2009 Girls’ Basketball Second-Team, April 4. The senior guard is a two-time West Sequioa League MVP and led the Eagles to an 8-0 league record and a section runner-up finish in D-V play. She helped the team achieve a 22-7 overall mark and make it to the semi-finals of the Southern California Regionals.

Hensley finished the season averaging 14 points, 6.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 4.6 steals per game. She also currently has a 4.1 GPA and plans on playing college basketball somewhere next season.

SEASON END

BELLARMINE-JEFFERSON DROPS EAGLES 66-59–March 12
The No. 5 ranked Eagles’ (22-7 overall) season concluded with a 66-59 loss, in the semi-finals of the CIF Southern California Division V playoffs to No. 1 Bellarmine-Jefferson (Burbank, CA) who improved to 32-1, March 12.

The girls played their toughest game yet against the Guards,” team manager Luke DeGroot said. “They really made them work for the win. They expected to smash us but the girls brought out all their physical force to slow them down.”

After going undefeated for nearly 2 months, FC dropped their second game in a week, but still finished with one of the best records in school history according to head coach Josh Tosland.

“We were never out of it,” Tosland said. “We matched their runs with our own. (Junior) Paige (Maltos) set the tone early by wanting the ball and dominating anyone that got in her way. We knew that beating the press would be the key and we did that.”

In their final game in an Eagles’ uniform, seniors Larissa Hensley (17 points), Katie White (12 points), and Emily Krieghoff (9 points) all had a productive night on the offensive end.

FC’s second-leading scorer Maltos finished with 12 points and will return to roam the paint for the Eagles next season.

“We played one of our best games of the season,” Krieghoff said. “Going in we knew it was going to be one of the toughest teams we would play all season. The first few minutes we really brought the intensity which made them step it up. We gave it our all the whole game but it wasn’t enough.”

The Guards came out hot and built a 21-12 lead through the first quarter of play. FC would outscore Bellarmine-Jefferson 14-10 in the second, but still trailed, 31-26, at the half.

After the Guards outscored the Eagles 17-9 in the third quarter it looked like they would cruise to a comfortable win, however the visitors had different plans.

Unwilling to see their season end, FC attempted a fourth quarter charge, using several 3-pointers to cut into the Guards lead. But Bellarmine-Jefferson was yet to lose in the new year and intended to keep it that way, efficiently using clock to close out the contest.

FC finished the season at 22-7 overall, and 8-0 in the West Sequoia League.

“We went to win, but we know it has to end sometime and that was a good game to end on,” Tosland said. “Hopefully we earned a little more respect in the state community. I am proud of the way they regrouped and played with the belief that this team has come to have. We would have loved to have a section title but just playing to our potential is more important.”

FC EXTENDS SEASON WITH ROAD WIN–March 10
Following a devastating 2-point loss at Selland Arena, the No. 5 seed Eagles rebounded with a 58-47 victory over No. 4 Christain Life Academy (Escondido, CA), March 10.

“We are here in San Diego eager to play again,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “That is what this team is about. Moving forward and loving the game. I am very proud of how they handled themselves. We hope to do a better job of ‘playing basketball’ tomorrow and not thinking too much about it.”

Though they held only a slim 29-27 lead at halftime, FC outscored Christian Life Academy 29-20 in the second half to advance to the next round of the State playoffs.

Junior center Paige Maltos went for 18 points, and senior point guard Larissa Hensley scored 11.

“The difference between this game and last is that we came out with firepower,” Maltos said. “We were ready to play and knew that we had to play our game. I knew that we had to play our game. We are ready for anything now so bring it on.”

FC earned the right to play a 31-1 Bellarmine-Jefferson (Burbank, CA) Guards team coming off a 79-65 win over Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, CA).

Senior guard Katie White says the Eagles have moved on since their disappointing Selland Arena loss.

“We are giving ourselves another shot and leaving our loss at Selland behind,” White said. “But we’re keeping it as a reminder to help push ourselves towards State.”

EAGLES’ 13-GAME WIN STREAKS ENDS–March 6
With the pressure-packed atmosphere of the CIF Central Section Division V Valley Championship at Selland Arena, the Eagles came out sluggish and lost, 44-42, to Coast Union, March 6.

“We didn’t play very well and we kind of just went through the emotions,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “The pressure of supposedly being the best team got to us and we forgot to play the game. This team is a success story and it can’t be characterized by one game.”

The Broncos received a boost from the clutch play of senior point guard MacKenzie Cunningham who scored a game-high 17 points and 5 rebounds, while senior center Emily Dun finished with 8 points.

Coast Union did that which no team in the West Sequoia League could do this season ? shut down FC’s star center junior Paige Maltos, who was held to only 4 points.

The game did not start off the way the Eagles anticipated with Coast Union winning the tip and scoring the opening bucket 5 seconds later. The first quarter saw both teams show signs of nerves as it concluded in a 10-10 deadlock.

After a similar second quarter, FC took a 26-24 lead into the locker room. But it was in the third quarter that the Broncos made their move, going on an 8-0 run (from the last 3 minutes of the third until early in the fourth) to seize the lead.

With 2:21 remaining in the game, Coast Union junior guard Faye Watson hit a wide open jumper in the lane to give her team a 2-point lead. The game remained scoreless for over 2 minutes before Maltos rebounded to senior Emily Krieghoff an air ball near the hoop and scored to tie the game with 15 seconds to play.

After a Bronco timeout, senior Lilly Takahashi was fouled with 2.9 seconds left and sank 2 free-throws to provide the final margin. FC’s last-second shot from beyond half court failed to hit anything as the team dropped its third straight game at Selland Arena.

The Eagles were led by senior Larissa Hensley’s 16 points; however, no other player on the team cracked double digits in scoring. The game marked only the fifth time this season that a single Eagle scored double digits.

“I don’t really have an answer to why we have lost 3 years in a row at Selland,” Hensley said. “Maybe God has something else in store for us who knows? Either way I am proud of my team and everything we have accomplished this year. I think as long as we keep believing in each other we can still go far in the state playoffs.”

Cunningham and Hensley were each awarded the Spirit Award for their all-out hustle for their respective teams. FC dropped to 21-6 for the season, but will continue in the state playoffs.

FC RACKS UP ANOTHER VICTORY IN SEMI-FINALS–March 3
One of the largest home crowds of the season turned out to watch the Eagles defeat Central Valley Christian, 63-52, March 3, and earn the right to play for the CIF Valley Championship at Selland Arena.

Sophomore Ashlyn White reflected on the thrill of playing the game with former club teammate and current Eagle Bridget Teixeira.

“Before running out on the court I Iooked at her and said ‘did you ever think we would be playing in a semifinal playoff game together,'” White said. “I was proud of the team for playing way better in the second half instead of how we did in the first. At half time, Toz was yelling at us and told us if we continued to play this way we would lose.”

As they have done all season, the Eagles worked their offense through junior center Paige Maltos, who for the first time all season faced an opponent of similar height. The majority of the game, she battled Amy Weststeyn, a 6-4, sophomore center averaging 8.6 points and 8.9 rebounds per game.

“Tonight I think the nerves got to us,” Maltos said. “We were thinking about our high expectations and how everyone wanted us to got to Selland. In the second half we started to play our game. I think it was good that we played CVC because it prepared us for the next high ranked team we will face.”

Maltos led all scorers with 19 points, while senior teammate Larissa Hensley dropped 15 points, snatched 9 steals, and had 8 rebounds.

To the delight of the student section, FC jumped out to an early 19-15 first quarter advantage ? a lead that they would never lose.

“This was a tough game with a lot of physical play,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “I think the story of the game was the foul situation. We got into some tough spots where we had to rotate some players in because of the foul situations.”

FC won the game despite giving the Cavaliers 32 free-throws while shooting only 18 themselves.

“We didn’t play our best game, but a win is a win,” Tosland said. “We will take it. We know we’ll have to play much better if we want a shot at the title. It’s going to be a battle that is for sure.”

UPDATE, Feb. 25: The girls’ basketball team, with a record of 20-5, is ranked first in CIF Division V and eighth in the state, according to a Feb. 23 article by The Fresno Bee. The team’s most recent loss was against Mission Prep in a close 43-39 game, Jan. 3, 2009. The Eagles also lost to Mission Prep in the Division V finals last year at Selland Arena, Feb. 29, 2008.

For more information on the Massey Rating, visit the “About the Massey Ratings” Web page on HighSchoolSports.net.

FC TRIUMPHS OVER PANTHERS–Feb. 20
In a game that seemed more like practice for a playoff-bound Eagles team, they overpowered the visiting Panthers, 68-22, Feb. 20.

Head coach Josh Tosland spend nearly the entire game sitting down as FC cruised to a 46-point win over Parlier.

“It was nice to finish it off,” Tosland said. “We tried not to look past them. I thought we really came out strong on a senior night when all three (seniors) scored early.”

The victory meant the Eagles will likely head into the first round of the CIF playoffs with the No. 1 overall seed in Division V. (Brackets will be announced Feb. 22.)

FC overpowered under-sized Parlier by getting the ball to center (junior) Paige Maltos who finished with a game-high 21 points, including 6 in the first minute and a half of play.

After her top performance, Maltos commented on her team’s readiness for the playoffs and aspirations of making it to the Division V finals at Selland Arena, March 6.

“We know what we’re up against and we know what we have to work for,” Maltos said. “I think that our team is ready this year as opposed to years past. I think God’s ready for us to win; we’ve faced a lot and now we’re ready to fight for it.”

Senior guard Larissa Hensley contributed a solid all-around game with 9 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 blocks.

“Our season so far has been great,” Hensley said. “We won a pre-season tournament, went undefeated in league, and are now looking to make it back to Selland Arena. This next week we are going to step up our practice intensity in order to prepare ourselves for playoffs. I think we are ready for the teams we are going to face and are willing to keep working hard to make it to Selland.”

The Eagles also used stifling defense to hold Parlier scoreless for the opening 3 minutes and without a field goal until 2 minutes remained in the second quarter.

As illustrated by a certain Eagle possession, the home team had complete control of their final regular season game.

With 38.3 seconds to go in the first half, sophomore Ashlyn White drove to the hoop and missed a contested layup. However instead of giving up on the play, White got her own rebound and went on the miss 3 more shots and grab all 3 rebounds before she was fouled on her fifth attempt.

The second-year varsity player sank both free-throws as FC took a commanding 45-6 lead into the locker room.

Despite a 4-4 start, the Eagles finished the regular season at 20-5 overall, and 8-0 in the West Sequoia League.

“I’m looking forward to the playoffs,” junior Tatiana Fontes said. “They will be close and exciting games that we will be in, and get a chance to show how hard we’ve worked and all we’ve learned. With our solid team we have a great chance to go far.”

The Eagles have a bye in the first week of the CIF Division V playoffs and will then open with a game against either Kings Christian or Central Valley Christian at home at 7 p.m., March 3.

“We are anticipating the playoffs with a game against CVC or Kings Christian,” Tosland said. “Both teams are looking to get to Selland and we want to just be prepared and come in hungry.”

EAGLES COAST TO WIN OVER REDCATS–Feb. 17
Using a high-powered offensive attack, FC cruised to a 52-20 win over Fowler, Feb. 17, giving them sole possession of their second-straight league championship.

“After playing them last time, we got into foul trouble, so we knew if we stayed clear from that, it would be a different game,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “It was great to see the three seniors lead us and get their back to back league titles.”

Because the Eagles narrowly won their last game against Fowler with a final score of 49-45, Jan. 30, the team redoubled its efforts for the second match-up with the Redcats.

“The last time we played Fowler, I don’t think we were really ready,” point guard Larissa Hensley, ’09, said. “So when we played them the second time, we made sure we came out focused and wanting to win.”

The Eagles managed an early lead over the Redcats in the first quarter, which some players say gave them the confidence they needed to finish the game strong.

“With The Fresno Bee writing about how poorly we played last time [against Fowler], we felt a boost to our play,” forward Ashlyn White, ’11, said. “People don’t realize how effective words are. Words can tear you down or fire you up depending on you take them; they always fired us up.”

FC maintained its lead over Fowler throughout the game, earning 16 points in the fourth quarter while employing an effective defense to stifle the Redcats to 2 points.

After the second victory over Fowler, the Eagles look forward to playoffs and valley and state championships.

“During our basketball journey this year, we have had a sad loss against Mission Prep,” point guard Katie White, ’09, said. “But that loss has built us up as a team to be ready to take on any challenge that lies ahead of us ? and from the successful games and practices, I believe we are ready.”

FC WORKS CARUTHERS ON THE ROAD–Feb. 12
With the game well in hand after the first quarter, the Eagles ran away with a 74-34 win over Caruthers, Feb. 12.

“All of the girls are getting significant minutes and contributing in all areas,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “I couldn’t be more proud of the focus this team has on game days. Two more (games) until playoffs; we just want to keep this thing going.”

Though nearly half the squad was sick, FC grabbed an early lead, and faced little resistance in the victory.

“Last time we played Caruthers, we were on fire in the very beginning so they let down,” sophomore forward Ashlyn White said. “This game we knew that it meant league championship. We started very well and got rid of our jitters fast.”

Senior point guard Larissa Hensley went for 19, and junior center Paige Maltos dumped 16 on a Caruthers team previously on a 4-game win streak. Maltos shot 7-7 from the field despite missing the previous 2 days of school while recovering from sickness.

A one-sided first quarter saw the Eagles grabbed a 23-4 lead

FC has won the last 10 games, with Mission Prep handing them their last loss Jan. 3. The victory meant the Eagles could get no worse than a co-league championship with two games remaining to be played.

Senior guard Katie White commented on head coach Josh Tosland’s utilization of his bench players.

“It was nice to see Tosland play non-starters for most of the game with at least one senior out on the floor,” White said. “For the seniors it was nice to play with the players that are not usually in our rotation. It helped us learn to be more patient and to be leaders by example.”

EAGLES HAMMER TIGERS ON THE ROAD–Feb. 10
In one of their most lopsided wins of the year, FC defeated Tranquillity, 81-18, Feb. 10.

“We had control pretty early and we started to work on a lot of new and different stuff,” Tosland said. “Everyone scored and had a good game. Coaches are looking forward to a potential ‘league championship match’ this Thursday at Caruthers.”

The 63-point win marked the Eagles’ largest margin of victory in the season. Sophomore Ashlyn White, and juniors Tatiana Fontes and Paige Maltos all scored 14 points, while senior Larissa Henlsey contributed 12.

FC ran fast-breaks throughout the game, and were also productive in their half-court offense, a combination that yielded a 54-12 lead after the first half.

The Eagles’ defense held strong in the second half, as they held Tranquillity scoreless in the third quarter and gave up only 6 points in the fourth.

Sophomore Bridget Teixeira moved up from the JV team, and had an immediate impact for the Eagles by scoring 7 points and not committing a single turnover.

“We had the opportunity to play Bridget on varsity tonight and she played great,” Tosland said. “We look for great things from her in the future.”

Junior Chelsea Shuman commented on the excitement of her first year on varsity.

“It’s so fun playing with this group of girls because there is never a dull moment with them,” Shuman said. “They make me laugh and are always encouraging. I like how our games are always exciting.”

FC BLOWS PAST RIVERDALE–Feb. 6
The Eagles controlled the entire game against Riverdale, winning their 8th straight, 73-33, Feb. 6.

FC stayed smart throughout the entire game, following head coach Josh Toslands instructions.

“We played a great game tonight,” Tosland said. “The team came out ready to play and played smart. We were trying to watch our fouls and we did just that.”

Junior Paige Maltos led FC in scoring for the third consecutive game with 22 points and 7 rebounds, while seniors Larissa Hensley and Emily Krieghoff finished with 15 and 11 points respectively.

Aside from their 4-point win over Fowler, Jan. 30, the Eagles have skated through West Sequoia League play, winning by an average of 33.6 points-per-game.

“As the second half of league is ending our team is trying to prepare for playoffs,” Krieghoff said. “Even though our competition during league isn’t the best, we are still learning in those situations. Having lost in the playoffs the last two years at Selland Arena really pumps us up and motivates us to work hard knowing it will pay off later.”

EAGLES DEVASTATE PARLIER–Feb. 3
In dominating fashion, FC nearly won by 60 points as they blew out Parlier, 82-23, Feb. 3.

“We wanted to make sure that we were ready to play,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “We know we are going to get everyone’s best effort being one of the top teams in the valley. The team played hard tonight despite being very tired.”

The Eagles used the game as preparation for future games, taking each possession one at a time.

With widespread scoring, the Eagles had 4 players total in double-digits. Junior Paige Maltos-Armstrong led FC with a game-high 20 points and 9 rebounds, while senior Larissa Hensley put up 19 points and 13 assists.

“Everyone contributed to the win this game,” Hensley said. “We knew Parlier was going to bring their best game so we had to do the same. We kept our intensity up all four quarters and came out with a good win.”

Junior Tatiana Fontes went for a career-high 17 points and 6 rebounds, and senior Emily Krieghoff finished with 11 points. Just before the half, a key assist by senior Katie White got FC 2 extra points and gave them the momentum.

“Just before we went into half time, I was trapped at the elbow,” White said. “I couldn’t see anyone to pass to, but I knew that Tat was right behind me so I passed the ball to her like a granny shot and she caught it and was able to score.”

Tosland described how his team went into cruise control and also restated 1 of their team goals after the game.

“We kept working hard until the end of the third quarter when we shut it down,” Tosland said. “We are looking forward to the second half of league and a possible chance at a back to back league title.”

REDCATS PROVIDE A SCARE–Jan. 30
For the first time since the Jan. 15, Yosemite game, FC was challenged as they defeated league rival Fowler, 49-45, Jan. 30.

In the battle of two 12-5 teams, the Eagles came out on top to remain unbeaten in league play with 5 games left to play.

Junior Paige Maltos led FC by scoring 14 points, and senior Emily Krieghoff supplied 11 helping the Eagles to their 6th straight victory.

Fowler was led by junior Liz Silva’s 14 points, and offered resistance in the second half by out scoring FC by 4 points.

“To have competition was good for us because we need to learn how to become better in those situations,” Krieghoff said. “In the 4th quarter, we kind off let up and they came back, but I always knew we were gonna win.”

EAGLES TOP CARUTHERS WITH SUPERIOR TEAMWORK–Jan. 27
With superior teamwork and passing, FC blew-out Caruthers, 72-38, Jan. 27, and remains undefeated (2-0) in the West Sequoia League.

The Eagles received scoring from a variety of players. Senior captain Larissa Hensley put up 16 points, and senior Katie White netted 13 including 2 early 3-pointers that rocketed her team to a big lead.

Sophomore Ashlyn White contributed 11 points while leading the team with 10 rebounds.

“We played up tonight and really took charge against a physical team,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “We were surprised that they didn;t press us the entire game. That is heir strategy, but once we kept breaking it, they knew to change.”

A decisive 11-0 run midway through the first quarter put the Eagles out in front by a comfortable margin and they kept it in the second quarter for a 47-20 half-time lead.

“We had amazing teamwork and we worked very hard,” senior Katie White said. ” We fought throughout the whole game, and had good composure despite rough play.”

As Tosland guides his team through West Sequioa League play, he points to Fowler as the Eagles’ next big challenge.

“We are very proud of the girls,” Tosland said. “But we have a big hurdle against Fowler on Friday at their place. It’s always a big crowd over there.”

TRANQUILLITY RECEIVES NO MERCY–Jan. 23
In a game that seemed more like practice, the Eagles outraced Tranquillity for a 76-21 victory.

“We did what we needed to do,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “We were able to work on a couple of things for the future and had a nice showing at home with everyone getting a chance to contribute.”

With the win, FC achieved their largest margin of victory of the season and improved to an league-leading 11-5 record overall.

Junior Paige Maltos led FC with a game-high 20 points, but was forced to leave the game when a Tiger player fell on her tender left knee with 3 minutes left in the fourth quarter. Though the injury seemed critical at the time, Maltos said it will not force her to miss any games.

Leading scorer of the West Sequoia League (senior) Larissa Hensley nailed 12 points while making sure the ball was evenly distributed. Senior Emily Krieghoff and junior Chelsea Shuman also scored 12 a piece as the Tigers had no answer for the Eagles offense.

“Tranquillity has always done a nice job competing and by the looks of the size of their team, they might be a program on the rise in the future,” Tosland said. “We look forward to playing the first place team, Caruthers, in league on Tuesday.”

EAGLES SMASH RIVERDALE–Jan. 20
FC started off on a 10-0 run to start of the game and stayed on the offensive all the way to end during a 57-24 conquest of Riverdale, Jan. 20.

The Eagles pounded Riverdale in the post by feeding the ball to junior Paige Maltos ? by far the tallest player on the court. The center finished with a team-high 12 points using her inside post moves to create easy lay-ups.

Senior guards Katie White and Larissa Hensley both chipped in 8 points as FC evenly spread out the scoring. Hensley also led the team with a season-high 15 rebounds.

Riverdale was led by point guard Beth Bledsoe’s game-high 13 points, but otherwise generated little offense.

The Eagles held a 21-3 lead after the 1st half, however they allowed 16 Riverdale points in the 3rd quarter, while scoring 20 of their own. However FC rebounded on defense in the final quarter, giving up only 5 more points.

“All the players did great,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “The first league game is always a mystery but we did what we needed. It wasn’t the prettiest game but we got it done.”

FC TOPS BADGERS–Jan. 15
With confidence in their step, FC went in to Yosemite’s gym, and pulled out a 69-61 win, Jan. 15.

“The girls came out with some intensity and never let up,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “We wanted to compete for four quarters and to learn from games in the past about being on the road and we did just that. I know Yosemite might not be the top team, but they are a very good team and we couldn’t be prouder of our girls.”

Senior Larissa Hensley scored 19 points, junior Paige Maltos chipped in 16, and junior Tatiana Fontes contributed 11 as FC led from start to finish.

FC held Yosemite on defense using a unorthodox strategy. Hensley limited the good looks of Badgers’ leading scorer Jenay Herring.

“We switched back and forth between a man defense and a 1-3-1 zone which really shut them down,” Hensley said. “They didn’t have an answer for our zone as long as we stayed intense.”

FC set the tone early in the 1st half behind the play of Fontes and senior Katie White.

“Without some of those rebounds and loose balls ripped by Tatiana or the eight points in the first quarter by Katie, we might not have had that big of a lead early,” Tosland said. “That made our confidence go up. Traveling to their house for the first time and getting the win also gave us confidence.”

Hensley helped set up the Eagle offense, by blowing through the Badger press, with the help of a few others, and staying in aggression mode.

“We knew from the beginning of the game that we were going to have to play hard for all four quarters,” Hensley said. “Even in the last minute of the game we knew it wasn’t over yet so we kept playing hard. ”

Maltos (11 rebounds), and sophomore Ashlyn White (10 rebounds recored double-doubles for the Eagles, but it was the clutch late game free-throw shooting of senior Emily Krieghoff that finalized the victory. The guard went 4 for 4 from the line in the final minutes for FC.

“We have been ready to play Yosemite,” Paige Maltos, ’10, said, “We knew that this would be a really big game. Our mind set was intense from the start, and we were ready to play as hard as possible all four quarters.”

Katie summed up one of FC’s biggest wins of the season.

“We were ready to take on Yosemite… nothing stopped us,” Katie said. “If they hit a three we would go back and do it too. Our intensity never let down and that is what won the game along with our team work.”

FC will take there renewed confidence into the start of their league season, as they prepare to defend last years league title.

“Our senior’s really stepped up tonight to help us seal the game,” Tosland said. “They led the way and the whole team followed accordingly. This was a big win and next up is league!’

EAGLES PUMMEL SIERRA–Jan. 9
With superb defense, FC shut down Sierra in route to a 55-21 victory on the Chieftains’ home court, Jan. 9.

Led by senior Emily Krieghoff, the Eagles locked down the Chieftains by keeping up their intensity for all 4 quarters. The guard provided 8 rebounds and 3 steals for the game. Sophomore guard Michele Graham also had a solid defensive game and came up with 3 steals and causing havoc for Sierra.

“The team did a great job on defense,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “We put the pressure on early and took them out of anything they wanted to run. We were ready for our home opener and it showed.”

Junior center Paige Maltos took card of the scoring with 16 points, while collecting 7 rebounds. Senior guards Katie White and Larissa Hensley both added 9 as the Eagles rolled on offense.

“We have one more game until league starts and it’s a big one at Yosemite,” Tosland said. “A few of our girls have played with a few of their girls that we will compete against, and that always brings a little more excitement. We look forward to a good game.”

After a tough start to the season, FC has battled back and now boasts a respectable 9-5 overall record.

MISSION PREP SHOWCASE, Jan. 2-3
ROYALS OUTLAST FC–Jan. 3
In a down-to-the-wire rematch of the ’07 Central Section championship game, the Royals once again edged the Eagles, 43-39, Jan. 3.

Needless to say with the biggest pre-league game of the season on the line, the game was very important to the Eagles. However the added pressure affected their shots as several rattled out or clanked off the rim.

FC shot only 23% percent for the game, which was not helped by their dismal (7% shooting) performance in the game’s final quarter. They also went 7 of 19 from the free-throw line, including 5 misses during “crunch time” in the 4th.

“We really did a great job of getting open looks and making it difficult for them to get anything going,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “We just let a lot of things get to us, especially in the 4th quarter, which contributed to our poor shooting.”

Senior point guard Larissa Hensley put up 10 points, and junior forward Tatiana Fontes scored 8 to round out the Eagles’ top point-getters.

After out-scoring Mission Prep 13-8 in the 3rd quarter, FC took 35-28 advantage into the 4th with full intension of closing the game. However the Royals (senior) Jenna Caruso had different plans.

Putting Mission on her shoulders, the 5’8″ guard stepped up and took the game over, helping her team close the 7-point gap with ease. For the game Caruso finished with a game-high 18 points.

“The game was over before they even had the lead,” Tosland said. “We had numerous chances to knock down shots, and they were good shots, not rushed but wide open, and we couldn’t get the job done.”

He went on the say that the game served as learning experience for things that might come their way.

“I know there are much larger things in our near future that we have our sights set on,” Tosland said, “and am eagerly awaiting how we will respond.”

EAGLES DEMOLISH COAST UNION IN MISSION PREP SHOWCASE–Jan. 2
The Eagles started off the new year on the right foot by turning a close game into a 56-38 blowout of Coast Union in the first game of the Mission Prep Showcase, Jan. 2.

Led by Larissa Hensley’s 19 points and 16 from Paige Maltos, FC torched the Bronco defense. Maltos, the team’s 2nd-year starting center, has steadily worked her way back into form since suffering a torn minisscas back in September.

“We had some great advantages with Paige in the game,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “She put the pressure on at all times and never gave up.”

Maltos is now the Eagles’ 2nd leading scorer, behind Hensley, with 11. 8 points-per-game, while providing a defensive presence as well.

Tosland says his team was able to focus on the task at hand despite the anticipation of a rematch with Mission Prep, the team that beat the his Eagles in the Central Section Championship, the following day (Jan. 3).

“The coaches thought the team played well and really stepped up when we needed them to,” Tosland said. “We knew this was a big game for playoff seedings, so we wanted to keep focused on this one before tomorrow’s game.”

WEST COAST JAMBOREE, Dec. 27-30
FC WINS WEST COAST JAMBOREE; DEFEAT RIVALS–Dec. 30
A high brand of basketball saw the Eagles run past Capital Christian, 48-40, in the championship game of the West Coast Jamboree, Dec. 30.

The outing was not as much of a game as the score might indicate, as FC controlled it from the early goings, and had only a few miscues with 4th quarter fouls.

“The team played a high intensity game and really believed in themselves,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “We controlled the game from the beginning and kind of let it slip a little in the fourth with some fouls, but we kept it going and secured the title.”

For the 2nd consecutive game, center Paige Maltos went deep for the Eagles. The junior pounded inside for 21 points and 13 rebounds, earning an all-tournament selection.

Senior point guard Larissa Hensley scored 12 points and had 10 rebounds which rounded out a solid 3-game performance and won the tournament’s MVP.

“We played like we know we can play and that is a good place to be,” Tosland said. “We look forward to (playing) our Division V section competition the rest of the season and Coast on Thursday. That will be a big game for playoff seedings; so our anticipation is high.”

EAGLES DOMINATE LE GRAND–Dec. 29
In complete control by the half, the Eagles beat Le Grand, 64-47, in the 2nd round of the West Coast Jamboree Dec. 30, handing the Bulldogs their first defeat of the season.

Junior center Paige Maltos turned in a top-notch performance scoring 20 points for FC.

“I felt good about tonight’s game,” Maltos said. “Everyone contributed even when they weren’t in the game, and did an amazing job.”

Senior Jennifer Hansen scored 19 to lead Le Grand, as her team dropped to 10-1 overall.

“We are getting better and it’s nice to give someone their first loss,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “The coaches are very pleased with the team chemistry.”

The Eagles fired on all cylinders as the other players fed off Maltos’ game. Senior Katie White scored 14 points as senior Larissa Hensley barely missed a triple-double with 13 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 steals.

“The girls did a great job working together tonight and really controlled the tempo all night,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “We know we have a very big game tomorrow against Capital Christian, a known northern powerhouse.”

EAGLES DOWN CLOVERDALE IN OVERTIME–Dec. 27
It took FC the entirety of regulation plus a grueling overtime session to finally down the Cloverdale Eagles, 58-53, in the opening contest of the West Coast Jamboree, Dec. 27.

Senior captain Larissa Hensley scored 14 points, and senior Katie White hit 4 of 5 3-point attempts for 12.

FC took a 31-27 lead into the locker room at the half, however Cloverdale came back in the 3rd, gaining a 1 point advantage heading into the last quarter.

With the game up for grabs in the 4th, both teams locked down on defense. Though FC gave up only 3 points, they scored only 4 themselves.

Still, it was just enough to force the game into OT. With the confidence that comes with accurate 3-point shooting (9/17 for the game) FC entered the extra period with all the momentum.

After Cloverdale made a 3 to open overtime scoring, White answered with a trey of her own to tie the game. Shortly after, sophomore Michelle Graham scored a 3 to put FC up by 4 points.

After a Cloverdale basket, White iced the game with yet another 3-pointer.

Senior Emily Krieghoff went for 10 points, and played lock-down defense on the other end of the floor.

“Emily played a great game,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “She helped at the point attacking hard, and played great defense.”

Sophomore Ashlyn White contributed to the victory by grabbing 7 offensive rebounds while taking on excess minutes due to teammates’ foul trouble.

The victory helped FC improve to 5-4 overall while Cloverdale dropped to 7-3.

DISNEY WORLD TOURNAMENT, Dec. 18-21
NORTHPARK COLLEGIATE OUSTS EAGLES–Dec. 20
In a frustrating game, the Eagles were ousted by Northpark Collegiate, 47-38, in their final game of the marathon Disney World Tournament in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 20.

For the 2nd consecutive game, FC worked hard, but failed to capitalize on their opportunities and let the game slip away to the team from Brantford, Ontario, Canada. Senior Larissa Hensley scored 14 points and was voted tournament MVP for the FC team. Senior Emily Krieghoff went for 8 points, while sophomore Ashlyn White got 5.

“Ashlyn had a good tournament and battles relentlessly,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “I am very proud of all the girls. They were competitive in every game and had chances to win.”

After watching his team go 1-2 in the Disney World Tournament, Tosland summed up the experience.

“It was just a couple of missed opportunities that really hurt us,” Tosland said. “It was a great learning experience for every team member. This will help us in providing things to work on in practice while getting ready for league.”

HIWASSEE DAM DEFEATS FC, 49-41–Dec. 19
Following up a down-to-the-wire opening game with another close one, the Eagles came up short this time to Hiwassee Dam (NC), 49-41, in the 2nd round of the Disney World Tournament, Dec. 19.

Though dropping below her average in the scoring department, senior Larissa Hensley managed a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds.

Junior center Paige Maltos came up 1 basket short of accomplishing the same feat with her 8 points and 10 boards, while sophomore Ashlyn White went for 7 points and 6 rebounds.

Despite out-rebounding their opponents by 20, FC failed to capitalize on the extra opportunities for buckets. Hiwassee Dam rotated smoothly on the defensive end of the floor, forcing FC into tough shots and limiting their offensive capabilities.

“We had our chances, just it seems like we were not all on the same page,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “I was trying to figure out which rotations would work, but couldn’t figure how to make the right adjustments on offense to give us some more chances.”

The Eagles struggled from the line shooting only 4-13 from the line, while watching Hiwassee Dam knock down 13 of 17. FC also got into foul trouble, committing 21 hacks to their opponents’ 10.

Hiwassee Dam improved to 10-2 overall with the victory, while FC dropped to 4-3.

EAGLES CLAW PAST TROJANS–Dec. 18
In dramatic fashion, FC hung on for a, 69-66, come-from-behind victory over Monticello (KY) in the opening round of the Disney World Tournament in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 18.

“[The team] played hard the entire game,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “Plenty to work on but we did some good things. We can definitely get better but I’m very proud of them.”

The Eagles shot the ball well, making 46% of their shots to go along with only 11 turnovers. Senior point captain Larissa Hensley scored 20 for FC, while classmate Katie White contributed 13.

In her first game back since tearing her left meniscus in conditioning class in September, starting center Paige Maltos pounded inside for 8 points.

Down by 9 points at the start of the 4th quarter, FC came from behind to pull out the win. Despite losing most of their height when Maltos and junior forward Tatiana Fontes fouled out with 4 minutes to go, the Eagles’ attack was not thwarted.

CLOVIS HIGH CLASSIC INVITATIONAL, Dec. 3-6
LEMOORE NO MATCH FOR FC, EAGLES CAPTURE 3RD, Dec. 6
After losing to Edison earlier in the day, FC rebounded with a strong performance against Lemoore and defeated the Tigers, 56-39, to capture 3rd place in the Clovis Classic Invitational, Dec. 6.

While Lemoore and FC traded baskets throughout a close first quarter, the Eagles led 13-10 and showed no sign of fatigue despite their noon game against Edison. However, FC pulled away and led 33-23 at half time.

“We controlled the game from the beginning,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “We played our best game of the tournament by meeting our goals for the game. We did all the right things and minimized our mistakes.”

The balanced attack returned to the lineup as 8 of 9 Eagles scored. FC also dominated the defensive boards grabbing 7 rebounds.

“The offensive attack is all about the chemistry that we have on the team,” Katie White, ’09, said. “It is also what makes us successful. When we hit shots or when someone does some thing big, it gets us going.”

The Eagles were led by All-Tournament senior teammates: Larissa Hensley and Katie White. Hensley led with a game-high 12 points and 9 rebounds while White chipped in 11 points.

“Larissa and Katie bring great leadership to our team and with them being four-year varsity layers, we can look to them for guidance,” Tatiana Fontes, ’10, said. “They were recognized for all they do for our team, and their individual success, and we’re so proud of them.”

Ashlyn White’s 9 points created a multi-pronged offense that also included junior Tatiana Fontes’ 8 points and senior Emily Krieghoff’s 7 points and 6 assists.

Kathleen Anderson led Lemoore with 11 points with Tanisha Walker adding 6 points to round out the Tigers’ top two scoring leaders.

Sunnyside High went on to defeat Edison, 32-28, to win the Clovis Classic Invitational.

EDISON DEFEATS FC, SENDS EAGLES TO THIRD PLACE GAME, Dec. 6
With a 21-8 first quarter romp, the Tigers cruised to a 75-42 win over FC, setting up an Edison-Sunnyside final in the Clovis Classic Invitational tournament.

“When we watched Edison warm up we saw that they were huge, athletic, and manlike,” Ashlyn White, ’11, said. “I think we were timid in the first half and played careful because we didn’t want to foul out.”

The balanced attack that usually characterizes the Eagle squad evaporated in the first half as they gave up 21 turnovers. The Tigers overwhelmed the home team using an aggressive offensive attack and trailed 39-14 by the end of the first half.

“We let it get out of hand early and couldn’t catch a break,” head coach Josh Tosland said. “We made too many turnovers in the first half and ten of them were unforced. We also did not match up well against them at all, but our team fought very hard and it was a great game for us.”

Senior Larissa Hensley led FC with 17 points while White added 12 but the Eagles, who usually spread the offense around could not move the ball effectively around the Tigers who controlled both sides of the boards.

However FC did regroup after the half and earned a 15-11 third quarter run but could not sustain their pressure and were overwhelmed in the fourth against the stronger Tiger pressure.

Despite the loss, the Eagles were still guaranteed a spot in the third place game.

“We needed to play some speed and size like that if we are to compete for a championship this year,” Tosland said in a final analysis of the game.

EAGLES FALL TO SUNNYSIDE, Dec. 5
The visiting Wildcats used a 17-7 third quarter run to break open a tight game and hung on to defeat FC, 48-43, in the third round of the Clovis Classic Invitational tournament, Dec. 5.

Despite their first loss of the season, coach Josh Tosland remained upbeat after the game.

“We played hard the entire game and we just couldn’t get a couple of shots to fall down in the final minutes,” Tosland said. “We came back from thirteen down in the third quarter to get within 3 points down to the wire. They made some key free throws and we just came up a bit short.”

The Eagles’ intensity became a mute point after they only shot 24% from the field, including 7-29 from the 3-point line.

Seniors Larissa Hensley led the Eagles with 14 points and Katie White added 11 to pace the FC attack.

The game was tied at 9 after the first quarter and Sunnyside led by 3 at the half (19-16) before the Wildcats ran away with the third quarter. They were led by Sareea Freeman’s 17 and Tara Wade’s 14 points.

But, with FC down 36-23 at the start of the 4th, freshman Nicole Hensley’s basket from behind the arc gave the Eagles life.

“Nicole came in and provided a little spark in the fourth with a 3-pointer and we were right back into the game,” Tosland said, but it wasn’t meant to be today.”

FC dominated the 4th, outscoring Sunnyside, 20-12, but could not make up the poor shooting of the first half. Yet Tosland was proud of his team for their no quit attitude.

“I am proud of the girls for how they played and that was a good game for all of them,” Tosland said. I am looking forward to playing Edison tomorrow at noon. They are extremely good and athletic and big. It should be good for our team no matter what. If we want to play with the big dogs, then we have to step up to the plate.”

Senior Emily Krieghoff and sophomore Ashlyn White each scored 6 points while junior Tatiana Fontes added 3 to round out the Eagles scoring.

FC-MADERA SOUTH BATTLE BRINGS EAGLES OUT ON TOP, Dec. 4
After their first win and game of the season, the Lady Eagles challenged Madera South and came out the victor, 57-36, Dec. 4.

In addition to putting their record at 2-0, the team also set precedents on a personal level. Senior Larissa Hensley scored her 1,000th point, and all the players practiced new tactics on the floor.

“My teammates have been a huge part in my basketball career,” Hensley said. “I could not have scored 1,000 points without them. It was exciting to find out I had made that many points in my career and I’m looking forward to seeing how the rest of the season turns out.”

Hensley emphasized the importance of her teammates over her career.

“After playing with these girls for three years we get to know each others’ strengths and weaknesses,” Hensley continued, “and that’s why the scoring is so spread out between the players.”

Coach Josh Tosland was upbeat after the victory.

“We have been trying some new things out this year, so it was nice to see it at work,” Tosland said. “Overall we played a really good game. We led the whole way and were really learning a lot of good stuff on the floor.”

Senior Emily Krieghoff’s 10 points contributed to the team’s offense, but she said the turning point proved to be their defensive efforts.

“I think our defense won us the game. We were always fighting and playing intense defense,” Krieghoff said. “We also drove to the basket a lot, which opened up scoring opportunities.”

FC led 10-6 at the end of the seesaw first quarter, but pulled away by half-time, 24-14. Hensley led all players with 18 points. Despite the Stallion’s strong third quarter, in which they outscored the Eagles, 12-11, the team never relinquished their lead.

“Playing in this tournament is good for us because we get to play some higher competition, including Sunnyside, who we play tonight,” Hensley said. “Tonight’s game is going to be tough, especially with only eight or nine players. I think we have a good chance of winning as long as we continue to work as a team.”

Six Eagles scored against Madera South, including sophomore Ashlyn White, who dropped 15, and her sister Katie finishing with 9.

EAGLES DEFEAT CRUSADERS FOR FIRST WIN, Dec. 3
Picking up right where they left off last year, the Eagles made a strong statement against Kings Christian, blowing out the visiting Crusaders 72-31, Dec. 3.

“Kings Christian has a good team that never gives up and we had a lot of respect for them,” coach Josh Tosland said. “We are working on getting better and getting better in shape, so that was a good start.”

In their opening game of the Clovis High Classic Invitational tournament, the Eagles pulled away early, forging a 24-6 first quarter lead.

While FC barely outscored Kings in the second quarter (13-11), they blew the game open in the third to lead 56-23. Seven of nine Eagles scored to pace FC in an attack.

“Offensively, we did great for the first game,” Larissa Hensley, ’09, said.

Four-year starter Hensley scored 22 points to lead the team, while Ashlyn White, ’11, added 16.

“I think we did really well with only about eight practices,” White said. “However, we’re not quite in shape yet, so everyone is really sore.”

Behind three returning senior starters, FC hopes to make a run at a Division V Valley Championship, after losing to Mission Prep in the finals at Selland Arena last season.