WINNING IN SAN DIEGO

Fullerton opened the season in grand fashion with two straight wins against San Diego Mesa and Grossmont at the Grossmont Crossover Thursday and Friday.

Thursday's 77-72 victory over San Diego Mesa was not an easy task as the Hornets had to battle back from a 16-point deficit. FC fell behind in the first half 43-27, but the team determination never faltered as they climbed back in the game by the end of the third. They even took a 51-50 lead thanks to Jasmine Arnold's three-pointer. The fight was on in the fourth quarter with both teams slugging it out. Fullerton finally took over for good with three minutes left in regulation when Kaylee Shimoda knocked down a three-pointer giving the Hornets a 67-65 lead. From there, FC pushed ahead for its biggest lead of seven that was capped off by a pair of free throws by Tia Jaquias. The Olympians managed one more two-point bucket before the game ended.

Freshman Xochitl Hood had a big game leading all scorers with 23 points. She also added 5 rebounds and 5 steals. Sophomore Tia Jaquias dropped in 14 points with 4 rebounds and 4 steals. Sophomore Jasmine Arnold scored 12 points and had 2 steals and 2 assists. Freshman Kaylee Shimoda put up 10 points, had 3 assists, and 8 boards.

Friday afternoon's game had FC defeating its host Grossmont 79-48. The Hornets jumped out to an early 24-11 lead in the first quarter and never looked back owning the next three quarters. All five starters for Fullerton scored in the double digits with Sarah Shaw leading the way with 23 points. She also brought down 8 rebounds. Tia Jaquias and Kaylee Shimoda both posted 12 points each, while Xochitl Hood scored 11 and sophomore Toni Ballestero dropped in 10.

Up Next: The Hornets (2-0 overall) will play at El Camino College on Friday, November 10th at 6:00 pm.