Manteca’s defense was stifling Wednesday night, as the Buffaloes scored the first nine points before coasting to a 58-42 Valley Oak League boys basketball victory over visiting East Union.
“Our point of emphasis the last couple of days was focusing on that defensive end,” Manteca coach Geoff Israel said. “I think we lost a little of that in the tournaments before league.
“We kind of knew what they did and how to scout grab, just be there and cut them off. Guys had hands up and got some fouls, but it was a way better job than it has been. It is something we have been working on.”
Johan Peringelil flirted with a double-double for the Buffaloes (3-1 VOL, 9-10 overall), scoring all 23 of his game-high points in the first three quarters along with nine rebounds and three steals.
“We had a great practice yesterday to get ready for our crosstown rival,” Peringelil said. “We did what we had to do and came out with the win.”
Teammate Jayden Scarver chipped in 14 points along with two rebounds, two assists and a steal.
“I just got my contacts so I can finally see now,” Scarver said. “I was just getting to the rim and when I realized I had a mismatch almost every time I just kept racking.”
Manteca’s Austin Barnes added nine points, two rebounds, two steals, two blocks and an assist with Joshua Mellion tallying eight rebounds.
The Lancers (2-3, 10-9) had problems controlling the ball and finished with 21 turnovers.
“We had easy looks and they just weren’t falling,” East Union coach Dutch Ell said. “We started the game down 9-0, and that’s not ideal. Turnovers killed us.
“I preached about how much energy would be needed tonight, and they outworked us tonight. That’s not something that my program is known for, so we have to go back to the drawing board and figure it out. Gotta respond, because the VOL is tough.”
Jackson Faye (five rebounds, steal) and Lorenzo Jones (six rebounds) scored 11 points apiece for the Lancers.
On Friday night at 7:30 p.m. East Union travels to Sierra, and the Buffaloes go to Patterson.
Junior varsity
Manteca 66, East Union 45
The Buffaloes’ Madden Melendez led all scorers with 17 points with Mohammad Awan adding 14 points and Mateo Gonzalez 11.
Jace Bettencourt paced the Lancers with 11 points.
