Even though the Hilmar Yellowjackets have not done well against the Livingston Wolves recently (they were 2-7 in their previous nine matchups), they didn't let the past get in their way on Thursday. Hilmar skirted past Livingston 40-38. For those keeping track at home, that's the closest win Hilmar has posted yet this season.
Alicia Souza was her usual excellent self, dropping a double-double on 20 points and 17 rebounds. She has been hot recently, having posted two or more steals the last four times she's played. The team also got some help courtesy of Emma Gomes, who scored eight points along with five rebounds.
Livingston's defeat came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Isabella Zazueta, who scored 16 points along with seven rebounds and three steals. Zazueta continues to roll, besting her previous point total in each of the last three games she's played. Another player making a difference was Adriana Cervantes Molina, who scored six points along with ten rebounds.
Hilmar's victory bumped their record up to 10-7. As for Livingston, they are on a seven-game losing streak that has dropped them down to 7-12.
Hilmar won't have much time to rest: their next game is against Escalon at 5:30 p.m. on January 19th. Escalon presents a significant challenge as they come into the match much higher ranked than Hilmar in California (Escalon is ranked 148th, while Hilmar is ranked 724th). As for Livingston, they will be playing in front of their home fans against Ripon at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday.
