Valley Teams Earn Respect in Fresno

A group of City Section boys’ basketball teams from the San Fernando Valley have been competing this week in a tournament in Fresno. Most have been losing, but in defeat, respect is being earned.

Sylmar High gave defending state Division I champion Oakland Fremont a scare Wednesday night before losing, 62-58. Ernest Williams scored 22 points for the Spartans, who also lost to Palisades, 74-61, despite 23 points from John Valdez.

Cleveland was routed by Ayala, 73-55, Wednesday but defeated host Buchanan, 74-51, Thursday.

Chatsworth was beaten by Modesto Calvary Temple, 82-59, in its opener, then defeated McLane, 76-65, behind 25 points from Adam Drell.

Canoga Park led one of the state’s top teams, Fresno Washington Union, by one point at halftime before losing, 79-57. The Hunters also were beaten for the second time this week by Los Angeles Fremont, 75-64. Jammie Harris scored 33 points for the Hunters (0-3).

Despite suffering defeats, coaches hope the strong competition helps prepare their players for league action.