San Ramon Valley showcased their determination by overcoming Carondelet 51-44 in the CIF NorCal Open Division quarterfinals, marking their fourth encounter this season. This victory not only avenged their earlier loss in the NCS Open Division championship but also secured a 3-1 advantage in the season series against their rivals.
The Wolves were fueled by a sense of urgency as they prepared for this rematch. “Very, very, very, very, very,” said SRV coach John Cristiano when asked about their motivation. The disappointment from their previous championship loss lingered, and they were resolute in not letting another opportunity slip away.
In a tightly contested match, Presley Uchikura, a freshman forward, played a pivotal role. In the final minute, her crucial block thwarted Carondelet”s last significant chance to equalize the score. “We had to get it done,” Uchikura stated. “I love defense. It”s so fun for me. To be able to get out on that shot was just an amazing feeling.”
With just seconds remaining, Uchikura blocked a Carondelet three-pointer before Hania Bowes grabbed the rebound, sealing the game with two free throws that extended their lead. Bowes, who had struggled to find open shots throughout the game, expressed her excitement, noting, “I had full confidence when I was taking that shot.”
Carondelet, having just edged out San Ramon Valley in their last matchup, was expected to put up a strong fight. They began the game with intensity, cutting SRV”s lead down to two points on multiple occasions. However, when it mattered most, SRV executed better under pressure, finishing the game with a 7-2 run.
Carondelet”s coach, Kelly Sopak, acknowledged the turning points in the game, saying, “On Saturday, we made big shots. Today, we didn”t have the answers.” He reflected on their season, recognizing the effort his team put forth despite the loss.
With this victory, San Ramon Valley improved their record to 26-4 and will face top-seeded Archbishop Mitty in the semifinals. Uchikura expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming match against a player she admires, McKenna Woliczko. “I”ve been looking up to her for a very long time, coming to her games since I was little,” she shared.
This game marked a significant moment for San Ramon Valley, as they left Carondelet”s gym victorious, solidifying their status as the top team in the East Bay this season. “One of our goals since the beginning of the season was just to even get to this point,” Uchikura noted, highlighting the team”s journey and aspirations for the future.
Uchikura led all scorers with 16 points, while teammates Ella Gunderson and Alyssa Rudd contributed 13 points each. For Carondelet, senior Layla Dixon concluded her high school career with 10 points, supported by Niylah Christopher with nine points and Janel Nevares with eight.
