Basketball Recap: Pinole Valley Takes a Tough Playoff Loss

Pinole Valley and Justin-Siena squared off in some playoff action on Saturday, but Pinole Valley had to settle for second. They lost 58-36 to the Justin-Siena Braves. While losing is never fun, the Spartans can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' California basketball rankings (they are ranked 204th, while the Braves are ranked 63rd).

Justin-Siena got their win on the backs of several key players, but it was Dylan Zapolski out in front who went 7-for-10 to rack up 16 points in addition to five rebounds and three steals. That's the most points Zapolski has posted since back in February of 2024. The team also got some help courtesy of Lauren KELLER, who went 9-for-14 en route to 19 points.

Pinole Valley's loss dropped their record down to 19-11. As for Justin-Siena, they pushed their record up to 26-2 with the victory, which was their tenth straight at home.

Pinole Valley does not have any more games scheduled as of now. As for Justin-Siena, they will square off against Moreau Catholic at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday. Moreau Catholic will roll in looking for their 16th straight win, something Justin-Siena surely won't give up without a fight.