The Patterson Tigers won the last time they faced the Merced Bears, and things went their way on Monday too. Patterson came out on top against Merced by a score of 56-49. Given Patterson's advantage in MaxPreps' California basketball rankings (they are ranked 132nd, while Merced is ranked 431st), the result wasn't entirely unexpected.
Patterson's win was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Daneilla Garcia, who scored 12 points along with six rebounds and two steals. Taylor Mason was another key contributor, scoring nine points along with six rebounds and five assists.
Despite the loss, Merced had strong showings from Averie Steverson, who dropped a double-double on 17 points and 13 rebounds, and Aryanna Giddens, who scored 15 points along with five rebounds and four steals. It was the first time this season that Giddens scored 15 or more points. Another player making a difference was Jada Davis, who scored five points along with six assists.
The win made it two in a row for Patterson and bumps their season record up to 24-2. As for Merced, their defeat was their fourth straight at home, which dropped their record down to 15-12.
Coincidentally, the two teams will both be playing Buhach Colony the next time they take the court. Patterson will head out to face Buhach Colony at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, while Merced will host them at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday.
