Basketball Game Preview: Encina Bulldogs vs. Futures Knights

The Encina Bulldogs will venture away from home to take on the Futures Knights at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday.

Encina is likely headed into the matchup with a focus on the second half, which is when things went downhill against John Adams Academy Rsvl/Lin on Friday. Encina fell just short of John Adams Academy Rsvl/Lin by a score of 24-22. The Bulldogs have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

Encina's defeat shouldn't obscure the performances of Khaliah McDonald, who posted six points in addition to 18 boards and three steals, and Elise Brandon, who put up six points along with 12 rebounds and seven steals. Brandon is crushing it when it comes to steals: she's grabbed at least two every time she's taken the court this season.

Meanwhile, Futures had to endure a four-game losing streak, but that streak is no more. They came out on top against Victory Christian by a score of 38-30 on Friday.

Encina better keep an eye on Emma Kharchenko. She was instrumental in Futures' win, dropping a double-double on 12 points and 13 boards. Ariana Lorta was another key player, putting up 13 points and three steals.

Futures smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 12 offensive rebounds. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least ten offensive boards in three consecutive games.

Futures' victory ended a four-game drought on the road and puts them at 7-12. As for Encina, their loss dropped their record down to 5-10.

Encina couldn't quite finish off Futures in their previous matchup on January 3rd and fell 27-25. Can Encina avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.