By Anthony Sarinana

In a showcase of absolute dominance on the hardwood, the Chino Cowboys asserted their authority over inter-district rivals, the Don Lugo Conquistadors, in a resounding 62-16 victory at the Mt. Baldy League Showcase held at the Toyota Arena in Ontario, California. The Chino Cowboys not only showcased their offensive prowess but also displayed an ironclad defense that left their opponents struggling for any semblance of control.

The Cowboys, with an overall record of 15-3, solidified their spot at the top of the Mt. Baldy League with an impeccable 6-0 record after their triumphant win against the Conquistadors. Leading the charge was the formidable Lyndsey Valverde, who not only emerged as the game’s leading scorer with 17 points but also stunned the crowd with a buzzer-beating three-pointer. Notably, Valverde executed her three-pointer using the G-League Clippers court, where the distance is increased compared to the high school regulation three-point line.

Freshman point guard Calise Gibson showcased her potential with a breakout first half, contributing 10 of her total 15 points to the team’s commanding lead of 42-10 at halftime. The Cowboys demonstrated not only offensive prowess but a stalwart defense that left their opponents reeling.

Tess Oldenburg, the Cowboys’ center and another freshman sensation, displayed her prowess on both ends of the court. Oldenburg’s defensive efforts included numerous blocked shots and forced turnovers, leaving the Conquistadors struggling to find openings. Impressively, she mirrored Gibson’s scoring contribution with 15 points, marking her as the game’s second-leading scorer.

As the game progressed, the Cowboys maintained their defensive intensity. At the end of the third quarter, Chino commanded a 56-14 lead, prompting the implementation of a running clock in the fourth quarter. In this quarter, the Cowboys’ defense remained unyielding, limiting the Conquistadors to just one basket.

This triumph follows another stellar performance on Thursday, January 25th, where Chino defeated Montclair, further solidifying their league record to an impressive 7-1 league record and maintaining their undisputed first-place position.

The Chino Cowboys, with their electrifying mix of offensive brilliance and defensive excellence, continue to make a resounding statement in the Mt. Baldy League. As they march on with unwavering determination, one thing is clear – the Chino Cowboys are a force to be reckoned with on the basketball court.

Photos by Anthony Sarinana