The Chico Panthers lost a heartbreaker when they last took the court, but unfortunately for them the defeat they were handed on on Thursday was a bit more commanding. They ended up on the wrong side of a tough 65-44 walloping at the hands of Pleasant Valley. While losing is never fun, Chico can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' California basketball rankings (they are ranked 338th, while the Vikings are ranked 168th).
When it comes to explaining why Chico lost, one person who can't be blamed is Rakim Young-Thomas. Despite the final result, he scored 12 points along with two steals. Adam Brott was another key contributor, scoring nine points.
Gavin Garretson was nothing short of spectacular for Pleasant Valley: he dropped a double-double on 24 points and ten rebounds. As a matter of fact, that's the most points Garretson has scored all season. The team also got some help courtesy of Cam Bussey, who scored 12 points along with six rebounds.
Chico has been struggling recently as they've lost three of their last four matches, which put a noticeable dent in their 12-9 record this season. As for Pleasant Valley, their win was their third straight at home, which pushed their record up to 15-6.
Both teams will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Chico will face off against the Honkers at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Hopefully Yuba City focused on turnovers this week since the team gave up 11 on Monday. As for Pleasant Valley, they will head out on the road to challenge the Trojans at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday.
