Preview: Crystal Springs Uplands Gryphons vs. Notre Dame Tigers
The Crystal Springs Uplands Gryphons will head out on the road to face off against the Notre Dame Tigers at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Crystal Springs Uplands is no doubt hoping to put an end to a three-game streak of away losses.
Last Friday, Crystal Springs Uplands got the win against Notre Dame by a conclusive 58-37.
Crystal Springs Uplands' win was the result of several impressive offensive performances. One of the most notable came from Maile Bateman, who scored 17 points along with six rebounds and three steals. The team also got some help courtesy of Raelyn Dela cruz, who dropped a double-double on 13 points and ten rebounds.
Meanwhile, Notre Dame's recent rough patch got a bit rougher on Friday after their ninth straight loss. They were dealt a 73-19 loss at the hands of Priory. While losing is never fun, Notre Dame can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' California basketball rankings (they are ranked 489th, while Priory is ranked 110th).
Perhaps unsurprisingly given the score, Notre Dame struggled to get the ball back on offense and finished the game with only an offensive rebound. That's the fewest offensive rebounds they've managed all season.
Crystal Springs Uplands' win bumped their record up to 8-10. As for Notre Dame, their loss dropped their record down to 9-12.
This contest is one where the number of possessions is likely to be a big factor: Crystal Springs Uplands have been smashing the glass this season, having averaged 27.2 rebounds per game. However, it's not like Notre Dame struggles in that department as they've been averaging 27.7 rebounds per game. Given these competing strengths, it'll be interesting to see how their clash plays out.
Crystal Springs Uplands was able to grind out a solid victory over Notre Dame when the teams last played last Monday, winning 54-46. The rematch might be a little tougher for Crystal Springs Uplands since the team won't have the home-court advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.
