Basketball Game Preview: Lompoc Braves vs. Santa Ynez Pirates

The Lompoc Braves will take on the Santa Ynez Pirates at 6:30 p.m. on Friday. Given that the two teams suffered a loss in their last games, they both have a little extra motivation heading into this match.

Last Tuesday, Lompoc lost to Cabrillo on the road by a 43-27 margin. The Braves haven't had much luck with the Conquistadores recently, as the team's come up short the last eight times they've met.

Janezza Garcia put forth a good effort for the losing side as she posted four points and three steals.

Meanwhile, Santa Ynez was not able to break out of their rough patch on Tuesday as the team picked up their third straight loss. They came up short against San Luis Obispo, falling 55-31. While losing is never fun, the Pirates can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' California basketball rankings (they are ranked 375th, while the Tigers are ranked 129th).

Santa Ynez used a three-pronged attack on offense: Kailani Ladera, Kylie Lapointe, and Helina Pecile posted six points each. Pecile also led the team in rebounds with 11. Rylan Agin took the lead distributing the ball, coming up with three assists.

Santa Ynez's defeat dropped their record down to 9-7. As for Lompoc, their loss dropped their record down to 11-8.

Rebounding is likely to be a big factor in this contest: Lompoc has been smashing the glass this season, having averaged 32.7 rebounds per game. However, it's not like Santa Ynez struggles in that department as they've been averaging 32.1 boards. With both teams battling to corral missed shots, we'll see if one team can grab an edge.

Lompoc came up short against Santa Ynez in their previous meeting back in February of 2024, falling 38-25. Can Lompoc avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.