West Valley loses Section to Enterprise, 62-46

Easy two:
The West Valley Eagles led the Hornets in the first quarter thanks to some breakaway layups like the one pictured by Ben Bradshaw.

The West Valley boys couldn't keep pace with the Enterprise Hornets at the Northern Section championship in Chico on Saturday, losing the game 62-46. The Hornets opened the game with an aggressive full-court press that forced several early turnovers, including a half court violation.

"We haven't seen anything like what they're bringing . . . their speed, quickness and athleticism," West Valley boys varsity coach Josh Schwerdt said before the game. "We tried to simulate that at practice by playing against seven or eight on defense."

Despite the Hornet's effective press, their poor shooting allowed the Eagles a 13 to 9 lead in the first quarter.

The Hornets warmed up fast, scoring 19 to the Eagles' 12 points in the second quarter, leading to a halftime score of 28-25.

Although the Eagles were still within striking distance, the Hornets soon proved their cold start was long behind them. The Hornets outscored the Eagles 34 to 21 in the second half. The Hornets were led by number 23 Anthony Williams who scored 22 points and Jovon Cunningham who had 18 including two three pointers.

West Valley's Donny Anondson scored 19, followed by Ben Bradshaw with 8.

As the number seven seed, the Eagles were scheduled to play the number two seeded Sacramento High School on Tuesday in the playoffs in Sacramento. The Eagles were 15-11 on the season before heading to Sacramento. After they finish their playoff run, the Eagles basketball team loses 5 seniors, Donny Anondson, Ben Bradshaw, Cade Courtright, Justin Naber and Trevor Tufts.

More photos from the game are online at www.andersonvalleypost.com.