Basketball Recap: Bakersfield Falls to San Joaquin Memorial in First Game of Season

Bakersfield had to start their season on the road on Wednesday, and it wasn't the start they were hoping for. They came up short against the San Joaquin Memorial Panthers, falling 77-54. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest defeat the Drillers have suffered since December 28, 2024.

Kade Johnson

Points

11/19/25 @ San Joaquin Memorial	22
02/15/25 vs Redwood	21
02/11/25 vs Independence	16
02/06/25 @ Ridgeview	25
02/04/25 @ Bakersfield Christian	27
+ 4 more games

Bakersfield's loss shouldn't obscure the performances of Kade Johnson, who went 9-for-20 on his way to 22 points and seven rebounds, and Ryze Niles, who shot 88% from the field en route to 16 points and five boards. The contest was Johnson's ninth in a row with at least 16 points. Another player making a difference was Jaythan Rivera, who posted nine points.

Looking ahead, Bakersfield will square off against Fairfax on Saturday. As for San Joaquin Memorial, they will face off against North at 3:45 p.m. on the 29th.