Basketball Game Preview: Westlake Charter Explorers vs. Esparto Spartans

The Westlake Charter Explorers will take on the Esparto Spartans in a holiday battle at at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Westlake Charter's defense has only allowed 21.2 points per game this season, so Esparto's offense will have their work cut out for them.

Westlake Charter is likely headed into the contest with a focus on the second half, which is when things went downhill against John Adams Academy - El Dorado Hills on Tuesday. Westlake Charter took a 36-31 hit to the loss column at the hands of John Adams Academy - El Dorado Hills. The Explorers have struggled against the Patriots recently, as the game was their third consecutive lost matchup.

Despite the loss, Westlake Charter had strong showings from Anthonia Nwaukoni, who posted four points and six rebounds, and Mika Binger, who had four points. Nwaukoni is also on a roll when it comes to steals, as she's now grabbed two or more in the last three games she's played.

Even though they lost, Westlake Charter smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with ten offensive boards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least ten offensive rebounds in four consecutive games.

Meanwhile, Esparto can finally bid farewell to their ten-game losing streak dating back to last season thanks to their game on Tuesday. They managed a 35-29 win over San Juan. Esparto's offense stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most points they've scored all season.

Esparto's win came from a few key players Westlake Charter will need to keep an eye on. One of the most notable was Kay Schneider, who earned 18 points. The dominant performance gave her a new career-high in points. Another player making a difference was Lisandra Martinez, who put up ten points.

Esparto's first victory this season bumped their record up to 1-3. As for Westlake Charter, their defeat dropped their record down to 3-2.