GLENDORA, CA – The Citrus College women’s basketball team made a statement on Friday night, taking down previously unbeaten Glendale College (13-0) with a 67-62 victory. The win not only ended Glendale’s perfect conference run but also secured Citrus’ spot in the playoffs, where they will face Fullerton College on Wednesday at Fullerton.
Owls Hand Glendale Their First Conference Defeat
Glendale came into the matchup riding an undefeated 13-0 conference record, but the Owls had other plans. From the opening tip, Citrus played with intensity, matching Glendale’s physicality and execution. Kristin Morella led the offensive charge, finishing with 22 points on 8-for-16 shooting, including four three-pointers.
The first quarter saw Glendale jump out to a 6-0 lead, but Citrus responded with back-to-back threes from Breanna Escobedo, keeping the game close. Sammy Velasquez led Glendale’s scoring effort with 19 points, while Shadel Ffrench dominated the glass, pulling down a staggering 26 rebounds. Despite their presence, Citrus stayed aggressive and trailed by just two at the end of the first quarter, 21-19.
Citrus Finds Their Groove in the Second Half
After a back-and-forth first half, Citrus took control in the third quarter. Breanna Escobedo (16 points, 7 assists, 5 rebounds) and Jolleen Olia (15 points, three 3-pointers) provided a much-needed offensive boost, while Maileeh Suasti contributed 12 points off the bench.
Defensively, Samantha Martinez and Kristin Morella played a crucial role in disrupting Glendale’s rhythm, forcing turnovers and closing passing lanes. The Owls’ defensive intensity helped them build a 57-48 lead heading into the fourth quarter.
Closing it Out
Glendale mounted a comeback late in the fourth quarter, cutting the lead to just three after a layup from Ffrench with 1:03 remaining. However, the Owls held firm. A key defensive stop by Samantha Martinez forced a turnover, and Kristin Morella iced the game at the free-throw line, securing the 67-62 win.
Next Stop: Fullerton College in the Playoffs
With the win, Citrus not only handed Glendale their first conference loss (13-1) but also clinched a spot in the playoffs. The Owls now turn their focus to a first-round showdown against Fullerton College on Wednesday at Fullerton, looking to carry this momentum into the postseason.
