Basketball Recap: Jonathan Gutierrez's Big Game Can't Quite Lead Verdugo Hills over Sylmar

Verdugo Hills extended their losing streak (dating back to last season) to six on Wednesday, dropping them down to 0-3. They fell 67-55 to the Sylmar Spartans. The Dons were given a dose of their own medicine in this game as the Spartans apparently hadn't forgotten their loss the last time these teams played back in November of 2024.

Verdugo Hills' defeat came despite a true team effort with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Jonathan Gutierrez, who posted eight points along with 14 rebounds and five assists. Another player making a difference was Jordan Vargas, who went 6-for-14 to rack up 16 points and six boards.

As for Sylmar, their victory was their fourth straight at home dating back to last season, which pushed their record up to 1-0. The home wins came thanks in part to their offensive performance across that stretch, as they averaged 78.8 points over those games.

Sylmar found their leader in sophomore Aiden Garcia, who shot 57% from the field on his way to 25 points. Andrew Galvez was another key player, going 5-for-7 en route to 14 points and five rebounds.

Coming up, Verdugo Hills will be taking part in a tournament against St. Genevieve at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. As for Sylmar, they are taking a road trip to challenge Eagle Rock at 6:00 p.m. on Friday.