The Public vs. Private girls basketball showcase held on January 24, 2026, in Temecula saw impressive performances from the Etiwanda Eagles and Ontario Christian Knights, both achieving substantial victories in their respective matches. Etiwanda defeated Rancho Christian with a commanding score of 104-73, while Ontario Christian overcame San Marcos Mission Hills, winning 110-70.
Etiwanda girls basketball coach Stan Delus emphasized the importance of execution during the game. Despite starting strong with a 7-0 lead, Delus called a timeout early to refocus his team. “You’re not running the plays that were called,” he urged his players. The team’s performance showcased a mix of talent and learning opportunities, particularly from standouts Arynn Finley, Chasity Rice, and Aliyah Phillips, who collectively scored 68 points.
Finley led the Eagles with 27 points, scoring 17 during the second half before fouling out. Rice and Phillips contributed 21 and 20 points, respectively, while Sydney Roberson added 16 points off the bench. This high-scoring game marked a season best for Etiwanda, bringing their overall record to 23-2.
Despite their loss, Rancho Christian’s Ebony Taylor-Smith delivered an outstanding performance, netting 33 points with an impressive 11 three-pointers. “I want us to be a better passing team,” Delus remarked, acknowledging the need for tighter gameplay as they approach the playoffs. The Eagles built a significant lead, finishing the first quarter at 32-16 and leading by 59-42 at halftime, largely due to Taylor-Smith’s scoring prowess.
In another exciting game, the Ontario Christian Knights faced a challenging start against San Marcos Mission Hills, who were able to sink 18 three-pointers throughout the match. Ontario Christian, ranked No. 2 in many national polls, ultimately surged ahead to secure a 110-70 victory, marking their seventh game this season with over 100 points.
Leading the charge for the Knights was Kaleena Smith, who scored a showcase-high 36 points and made seven three-pointers. Tatianna Griffin added 27 points, while Chloe Jenkins contributed 16 points and 13 rebounds. Despite a strong effort from Mission Hills’ Bay Cordova, who scored 31 points, Ontario Christian’s second and third quarters proved decisive.
The final match of the showcase featured the Centennial Huskies, who played without their star player Sydney Douglas due to a compound fracture in her pinky finger. Centennial managed to overcome a slow start to defeat San Diego Parker 56-45.
Armanyie Reed led the Huskies with 20 points and nine rebounds, while Cydnee Bryant added 16 points, 22 rebounds, and five blocks. The game began with a scoring drought, as both teams struggled to find their rhythm, but Centennial’s 11-2 run in the second period ultimately secured their lead.
In a different matchup, the Chino Cowboys faced a tough challenge against Chula Vista Mater Dei Catholic, losing 56-43. Despite showing flashes of brilliance, Chino struggled with turnovers throughout the game, committing 35 turnovers in total. Lyric Green led Chino with 21 points, but the Cowboys could not maintain their momentum in the closing minutes.
As the showcase concluded, teams left with valuable lessons and insights, particularly for those competing at higher levels as the season progresses. The performances highlighted not only individual talents but also the importance of teamwork and strategy in competitive basketball.
