Even though the Western Warriors have not done well against the Rancho Rams recently (they were 0-4 in their previous four matchups), they didn't let the past get in their way on Thursday. Western walked away with a 49-42 win over Rancho. Western didn't have much to brag about two games back, but this victory makes it their second in a row.
Western found their leader in underclassman Laila Lwaba, who dropped a double-double on 24 points and 11 rebounds. As a matter of fact, that's the most points Lwaba has scored all season. Another player making a difference was Qaaima Taylor, who scored 11 points along with eight rebounds.
Rancho's loss came despite strong showings from Claudia Vargas-Arellano and Taylor Dagons. Vargas-Arellano scored 18 points along with five assists and three steals, while Dagons scored 14 points. Vargas-Arellano is absolutely dominating the steal category: she's posted at least two every time she's taken the court this season.
Western's victory bumped their record up to 5-10. As for Rancho, their defeat dropped their record down to 9-5.
Western will look to defend their home court on Tuesday against Green Valley at 6:30 p.m. Green Valley is coming into the contest on a three-game losing streak. Rancho won't have much time to rest: their next contest is against Sunrise Mountain at 6:30 p.m. on January 19th. The matchup should be an exciting one, as these teams are ranked near one another in Nevada (Sunrise Mountain is ranked 37th, while Rancho is ranked 54th).
