The Moorpark Raiders (26-1, 8-0) opened up the playoffs with a statement win as the team handled Riverside (16-12, 7-5) 96-65 as guard Jazzy Carrasco reached 1000 career points with Moorpark.
Carrasco reached an impressive accomplishment, but was more excited for victory to begin the playoffs.
“Playoffs are win or go home and I feel Bree, Isabel and I did well with keeping up our energy the entire four quarters of the game that led to everyone’s energy being at a high level,” Carrasco said.
There was no let down for the Raiders in their first playoff game as they were led by guard Bree Calhoun with 24 points, nine assists and four steals as they pulled away from Riverside in the second half outscoring them by 19.
Forward Britt Van Buren had a double-double with 20 points and 12 rebounds and was one of three Raiders to score over 20 against Riverside. Next, Carrasco was able to score 20 points, reeling in 1000 career points with Moorpark.
Carrasco joined teammate Calhoun in Moorpark’s 1000 point club. An incredible accomplishment that two players from Moorpark were able to reach this milestone this season.
Carrasco was asked about the accomplishment post-game. “It was a great feeling to be a part of the one-thousand points club and to join Bree and Barbs,” she said.
The Raiders were unable to secure a comfortable lead in the first half as Riverside was able to keep the deficit to under 10 points and only trailed by 12 at halftime as they were led by guard Trinity Vasquez who had 31 points on 12-22 shooting.
The Raiders came out after halftime with a purpose as they stretched the lead to 30 points.
Calhoun commented on the halftime adjustments post-game.
“We had a good talk at halftime and basically knew what we needed to do to improve on the defensive and offensive end and we just came together and set the goal high for ourselves,” Calhoun said.
Head Coach Kenny Plummer was pleased with how his team opened up the playoffs.
“I would say our playoff performance last night was a good one, beating a bigger and more athletic Riverside team. I thought we really competed, shared the ball, and stuck to our defensive assignments,” Plummer said. “I was really pleased with how we made the proper adjustments on both ends of the floor to get the win.”
This is just the start of the playoff journey for the Raiders. Plummer talked about how the team can continue the repeated success throughout playoffs.
“Playoff basketball is a different beast. In order for continued success, we must prepare and continue to get better at every practice, continue playing as a team by uplifting each other, being accountable in knowing our defensive assignments and enjoy the process,” Plummer said.
The Moorpark Raiders playoff journey continues March 7 at 7 p.m. against the Cypress Chargers (21-6, 9-3).
