Basketball Recap: Kaylie Mares Key Part of a Team Effort in Pioneers Win

While Mt. Whitney didn't have the best season last year (they finished 11-17), it's starting to look like those struggles are a thing of the past. They walked away with a 34-23 victory over the Exeter Monarchs on Saturday. Given the Pioneers' advantage in MaxPreps' California basketball rankings (they are ranked 317th, while the Monarchs are ranked 648th), the result wasn't entirely unexpected.

Mt. Whitney's win was the result of several impressive offensive performances. One of the most notable came from Kaylie Mares, who posted 13 points in addition to six rebounds and three steals. Mares is crushing it when it comes to steals: she's grabbed at least three every time she's taken the court this season. Another player making a difference was Carmen Jimemez, who had six points in addition to five boards and three steals.

Mt. Whitney smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 17 offensive boards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least nine offensive rebounds in three consecutive matchups.

Mt. Whitney pushed their record up to 6-2 with the win, which was their fourth straight on the road. Those victories came thanks to their defensive effort, having only surrendered 26.3 points per game. As for Exeter, they moved to 7-5 with that defeat, which also ended their four-game winning streak.

Mt. Whitney will be taking part in a tournament against Fresno at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Exeter and Lindsay will compete for holiday cheer at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Exeter is facing Lindsay at the right time seeing as Lindsay is stuck on a three-game losing streak.