The Downey Vikings's recent rough patch got a bit rougher on Wednesday after their third straight loss. They fell 55-43 to Paramount. While losing is never fun, Downey can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' California basketball rankings (they are ranked 163rd, while Paramount is ranked 48th).
Downey's loss came despite strong showings from Amanda Velazquez and Symantha Barnett. Velazquez scored eight points along with seven rebounds and three steals, while Barnett scored seven points along with six rebounds and four blocks. Those four blocks set a new season-high mark for her. Another player making a difference was Olivia Vaughn, who scored 11 points along with five steals.
Downey bumped their record down to 9-10 with that defeat, which was their third straight at home. As for Paramount, they have been performing incredibly well recently as they've won six of their last seven games, which provided a nice bump to their 16-4 record this season.
Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Downey will take on San Juan Hills at 6:00 p.m. on Friday. San Juan Hills is strutting with some offensive muscle, as they've averaged 56.8 points per game. As for Paramount, they will be playing at home against Warren at 5:15 p.m. on Friday.
