OEC OPENER EQUALS A WIN

The Hornet win put the team back at .500 with an overall record of 8-8 with an OEC record of 1-0, while the Rustler loss knocks them down a notch at 9-3 overall and 0-1 in the OEC. Coming into the game, GWC led the conference, averaging 88 points per game. 

Golden West snuck in a 6-3 lead in the first few minutes of the game, but Destiny Goodloe's layup put Fullerton up 7-6 by 5:48. From there, FC went on a 10-4 run taking a 17-10 edge. Celise Moreno's lay-in wrapped up the first quarter with the Hornets leading 19-14. 

The second quarter began with Shanise Ho hitting two consecutive 3-pointers lifting Fullerton up 25-16. By halftime, the Hornets held a 37-29 advantage. 

Fullerton pushed on in the third quarter grabbing its largest lead of the game (14) 43-29 on a layup by Moreno. By the quarter's end, FC maintained a 52-44 lead. 

The Hornets were tested in the fourth quarter as turnovers gave the Rustlers new life. At the 7:23 mark, Golden West had closed the gap 54-53 and seemed to have momentum on its side. Soon after, Jessica Jones punched in for a layup on the next possession giving the Hornets some breathing room at 56-53. A 10-4 mini-run by Fullerton put the game out of reach with a few minutes left, forcing the Rustlers to play the "foul" game. At the free throw line, Jessica Jones iced the game for the Hornets knocking down both attempts with seconds left. 

Destiny Goodloe had another strong effort for the Hornets tonight with 24 points, 4 assists, and 4 rebounds. Celise Moreno was not too shabby herself with 17 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists. Bri Landeros scored 10 points with 9 boards, while Jessica Jones put up 9 points with 12 boards. 

Up Next: The Hornets (8-8 overall, 1-0 OEC) will play again at home this Wednesday, January 19th when district-rival Cypress College comes to the Hornets Nest. Tip off is at 6:00 pm.  

*Photo by Matt Brown