With almost as many players injured and unable to play as those suited up for their season opener, the Cerritos College women's basketball team dropped a 47-33 game to visiting Santa Monica College on Saturday night. Missing their returning point guard, as well as three big recruits, the Falcons did their best to stay with the Corsairs, who also suited just six players. The team will travel to San Diego Mesa College next Friday for a 7:00 p.m. game.

Down 33-18 heading into the fourth quarter, Cerritos received a three-pointer from freshman Justine Lucero (South El Monte HS) to begin what the team hoped would be a comeback. Freshman Destiny Elmore (La Mirada HS) also knocked down a long distance shot, but the Corsairs were able to run off five straight points to retain their comfortable lead.

Looking to score their points three at a time, the Falcons were just 3-for-24 from three-point range, while their were also out-rebounded 58-32.

Lucero led the team with 10 points and also added four rebounds and three steals, with sophomore Lauryn Nakamura (Cypress HS) contributing seven points, eight rebounds and four steals in a strong all-around game. Elmore posted her seven points off the bench, while freshmen Carissa Basurto (El Rancho HS) and Emily Gonzalez (La Mirada HS) each pulled down six rebounds.

Photos by Daryl Peterson