If the Norco Cougars were feeling good off their 83-58 takedown of the Corona Panthers last Wednesday, their most recent game may have dampened their spirits a bit. Norco fell 83-74 to the Centurions on Saturday. While losing is never fun, Norco can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' California basketball rankings (they are ranked 360th, while the Centurions are ranked 171st).
Norco's loss came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Matthew Mendias, who scored 19 points. Mendias continues to roll, besting his previous point total in each of the last five games he's played. Misael Palafox was another key contributor, scoring 13 points.
Dylan Griffin was his usual excellent self, dropping a double-double on 31 points and 12 rebounds for University City. As a matter of fact, that's the most points Griffin has scored all season. Another player making a difference was Ben Gavani, who scored 17 points along with eight rebounds.
Norco's loss dropped their record down to 15-15. As for University City, they are on a roll lately: they've won five of their last six matchups, which provided a nice bump to their 18-8 record this season.
Norco does not have any more games scheduled as of now. University City will look to defend their home court on Tuesday against the Islanders at 6:15 p.m.
