Basketball Game Preview: California Trojans vs. Aquinas Academy Crusaders

Having just played yesterday, the California Trojans will head out on the road to face off against the Aquinas Academy Crusaders at 5:30 p.m. on Friday.

California is leaving town to face Aquinas Academy after disappointing their home crowd in their season opener. The Trojans were beaten by Burrell 76-45 on Thursday. The Trojans were down 53-31 at the end of the third quarter, and things only got worse from there.

The losing side was boosted by Hayley Gibson, who dropped a double-double with 18 points and ten boards. Lila Mitchell was another key player, putting up nine points along with seven rebounds and four blocks.

Meanwhile, Aquinas Academy had to travel to play their first game of the season, but the final result was worth the trip. They narrowly escaped with a win as the team sidled past Elizabeth Forward 59-57. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest victory the Crusaders have posted since January 10th.

Aquinas Academy's win came from a few key players California will need to keep an eye on. One of the most notable was Tess Duer, who shot 50% from the field to rack up 20 points. Another player making a difference was Rebecca Guillen, who went 7-for-12 on her way to 19 points and five boards.