Basketball Recap: Vernon Johnson JR's Big Game Can't Quite Lead Santa Rita over Willcox

Santa Rita was not able to break out of their rough patch on Thursday as the team picked up their third straight loss. They took a 53-46 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Willcox Cowboys. The Eagles lost against the Cowboys in their previous head to head back in February of 2024, too, but the margin this time around was much closer than the 77-39 score last time.

Santa Rita's defeat came despite a true team effort with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Vernon Johnson JR, who went 5 of 12 on his way to 13 points along with five boards and three steals. Imani Hashim also deserves some recognition as he posted his first block of the season.

Even though they lost, Santa Rita was working as a unit and finished the game with 13 assists. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Willcox only racked up six assists.

Willcox got their win on the backs of several key players, but it was Caden Hooper out in front who dropped a double-double with 22 points and 11 rebounds. Da'Marion Jackson was another key player, going 6 for 8 en route to 13 points and seven boards.

Santa Rita's loss dropped their record down to 6-14. As for Willcox, they have been performing well recently as they've won four of their last five matchups, which provided a massive bump to their 15-11 record this season.

As of now, neither Santa Rita nor Willcox have any future games scheduled.