Basketball Recap: Crystal River Takes a Loss

Crystal River and Dunnellon squared off in some playoff action on Thursday, but Crystal River had to settle for second. They took a 45-32 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Dunnellon Tigers. The Pirates lost against the Tigers in their previous head to head back in January of 2024, too, but the margin this time around was much closer than the 71-20 score last time.

Aidian Cordero Santana

Steals

02/06/25 vs Dunnellon	4
02/04/25 vs Santa Fe	2
01/31/25 @ Weeki Wachee	3
01/28/25 @ Springstead	4

When it comes to explaining why Crystal River lost, don't look at Aidian Cordero Santana. Despite the final result, she went 5 of 9 on her way to 15 points and four steals. Cordero Santana is on a roll when it comes to steals, as she's now grabbed two or more in the last four games she's played. The team also got some help courtesy of Sara Amsbury, who posted four points and three blocks.

Multiple players turned in solid performances to lead Dunnellon to victory, but perhaps none more so than Joseleen Malave, who went 6 for 14 en route to 15 points and four steals. Another player making a difference was Mia Burns, who earned 11 points and seven steals.

Crystal River has traveled a rocky road recently having lost four of their last five matches, which put a noticeable dent in their 8-13 record this season. As for Dunnellon, the victory was the third in a row for them, bringing their record for this year to 12-10.

Crystal River does not have any more games scheduled as of now. As for Dunnellon, they will square off against Eastside on Saturday. Eastside will roll in looking for their fourth straight win, something Dunnellon surely won't give up without a fight.