After three games on the road, Redlands East Valley is heading back home. They will finish 2023 at home by hosting the Norco Cougars at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Keep an eye on the score for this one: both teams posted some lofty point totals in their previous games.
Last Friday, Redlands East Valley was within striking distance but couldn't close the gap as they fell 65-60 to Glendora. While losing is never fun, Redlands East Valley can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' California basketball rankings (they are ranked 361st, while Glendora is ranked 146th).
Despite their loss, Redlands East Valley saw several players rise to the challenge and make noteworthy plays. Jeremiah Ivens, who scored 15 points along with six rebounds and five assists, was perhaps the best of all. The match was Ivens' 12th in a row with at least ten points. Another player making a difference was Dariel Bahamontes, who scored 11 points along with seven rebounds and three blocks.
Norco has made a habit of sweeping their opponents off the court, having now won five contests by 20 points or more this season. They blew past Granite Hills 81-61.
Matthew Mendias was his usual excellent self, scoring 28 points. The match was his 11th in a row with at least ten points. Kameron Brown was another key contributor, scoring 15 points.
Redlands East Valley's loss dropped their record down to 7-5. As for Norco, their win ended a five-game drought on the road dating back to last season and puts them at 9-7.
This contest is shaping up to be a blowout: Redlands East Valley hasn't had any problem running up the score this season, having only averaged 64.1 points per game. However, it's not like Norco struggles in that department as they've been averaging only 75.4 points per game. The only thing between Redlands East Valley and another offensive beatdown is Norco. Will they be able to keep them contained?
Redlands East Valley couldn't quite finish off Norco in their previous matchup back in November of 2022 and fell 52-49. Will Redlands East Valley have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other basketball content.
