By Jenny Tran
In a gripping game on Tuesday, the Barons varsity girls’ basketball team went head to head against University High School, snagging their first home win with a score of 64-38.
One player in particular stood out on the court that night, her name persistently streaming from the speakers. Junior Melody Nishi scored eight three-pointers during the game and broke the school record for the number of three-pointers made in one game.
“I think I’ve improved over the years,” Nishi said about her performance. “I wasn’t that good in the beginning, but with practice and time, I’ve gotten better.”
The first quarter kicked off with a tip-off to the Barons, sophomore Karley Waite instantly making a two-pointer. A noticeable back and forth quickly defined the game, with the ball shifting between both sides and unable to remain still.
Along with Waite, seniors Mary Nguyen and Mars Shepard helped add to the score this quarter with their unfailing layups and free throws. The first quarter ended with a score of 12-11, both teams breathing on each other’s necks.
The Barons managed to push their points much further the second quarter. With 7:01 remaining, Nishi made her first basket of the night, a three-pointer that propelled the score to 15-11.
Right after Nishi made another three-pointer a minute later, the Trojans called for a time-out. The aggressive playing persisted the rest of the quarter, one team making a basket whenever the other did. Right after the Trojans scored a three-pointer with 2:17 remaining, Nishi responded with one too, giving the Barons a ten-point lead.
The second quarter ended with a score of 34-23, the Barons having a substantial lead.
With hopes high, the Barons carried possession of the ball when the third quarter began. Close shots were made on both sides and Nishi produced two more three-pointers this round.
With 2:20 remaining, senior Dianna Burke gave an assist to junior Samantha Nguyen, who made a two-pointer. Right after the Trojans followed with a two-pointer, Nguyen scored another one, pushing the score to 52-27.
The score was at 56-31 by the time the exciting final quarter began, the Trojans then quickly starting off with a three-pointer. Both teams played well defensively, with the ball just grazing the basket in multiple instances.
With five minutes left, senior Alana Flores madea successful three-pointer after a series of passes between the Barons. Nishi made her eighth three-pointer of the night with 4:03 remaining.
“I felt excited because this was the most points I’ve made in a game,” Nishi said. “I mean, last time, I think it was six three-pointers. So, I totally improved. I think I beat the record.”
Neither team gave up during the final minutes, determined to give it their all. In the final thirty seconds, sophomore Candice Tran made a two-pointer, and the Trojans finished off with a layup. The game ended with 64-38, the Barons taking home the win.
The girls’ next game will be a home game against El Toro in Fountain Valley High School’s gymnasium on Dec. 15 at 7 p.m.
