Preview: Kennedy Fighting Irish vs. Valencia Tigers
The Kennedy Fighting Irish will be playing in front of their home fans against the Valencia Tigers at 6:15 p.m. on Thursday. Kennedy has been getting the ball to fall more lately as they've increased their point totals each of their last three games.
Last Tuesday, Kennedy escaped with a win against the Mariners by the margin of a single free throw, 40-39. The victory was all the more spectacular given Kennedy's disadvantage in MaxPreps' California basketball rankings (they are ranked 637th, while the Mariners are ranked 283rd).
Kennedy found their leader in underclassman Elizabeth Tirona, who scored 16 points along with six assists and six steals. It was the first time this season that Tirona scored 15 or more points. Another player making a difference was Riyin Stewart, who dropped a double-double on ten points and 15 rebounds.
Meanwhile, Valencia came into Tuesday's match having lost three straight, but that streak is now in the rearview. They sure made it a nail-biter, but they managed to escape with a 40-37 win over Tustin on Tuesday. The win was just what Valencia needed coming off of a 68-32 loss in their prior matchup.
Kennedy's win ended a three-game drought at home and bumped them up to 9-17. As for Valencia, they now have a winning record of 14-13.
Kennedy came up short against the Tigers in their previous meeting two weeks ago, falling 47-36. Will Kennedy have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.
