Panthers Open Conference Play with Tough Road Loss to Eagles

The Chaffey College women's basketball team began Inland Empire Athletic Conference play on Saturday afternoon, falling 92-36 to Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) in a challenging road matchup. Despite competitive stretches, disruptive on-ball defense, and contributions from both the starting unit and reserves, the Panthers were unable to slow the Eagles' high-tempo offense and second-chance production.

Chaffey opened the game with active defensive pressure, but MSJC seized early momentum behind efficient perimeter shooting and transition scoring. The Panthers were held to four points in the first quarter and entered the second trailing 10-4. Alexa Castricone and Venezia Perez each found scoring opportunities in the second quarter, but the Eagles continued to push the pace, using a 24-point frame to take a 34-15 advantage into halftime.

The third quarter proved decisive, as MSJC outscored Chaffey 33-12 by capitalizing on offensive rebounds and converting turnovers into quick points. The Panthers responded with improved ball movement and energy in the fourth quarter, highlighted by baskets from Kamryn Ellis and Akami Garrett, but the early deficit remained too large to overcome.

Ellis led Chaffey with a steady all-around effort, recording two rebounds, two assists, and eight points while going 2-for-3 in the field, 2-for-3 beyond the arc, and a perfect 2-for-2 at the free-throw line. Castricone added six points, two rebounds and knocked down two three-pointers to pace the Panthers from the perimeter. Abby Hardy contributed five points and four rebounds inside, while Niyah Thomas recorded four boards and two points in 25 minutes.

The Panthers' bench continued to play a key role, with Garrett recording three points and three rebounds, and Azcuenaga contributed five points and a team-high five boards. Abigail Aguilar collected three rebounds, and Destiney Rentie added two points and a rebound in 13 minutes.

As a team, Chaffey recorded a 23.5 shooting percentage from the field and 28.6 percent from three, while MSJC countered with 48 percent shooting and a 47-38 rebounding advantage. The Panthers generated five steals and held the Eagles to 32.3 percent from three, but the Eagles' interior scoring and transition efficiency created too much separation.

Chaffey will now look to regroup as conference play continues on the road. The Panthers travel to face San Bernardino Valley College on Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 5 p.m.