SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Santa Barbara City College honored its sophomore student-athletes on Saturday before delivering a smothering defensive performance to defeat Allan Hancock College 73-59.
Sophomore Kaylee Bosetti recorded her third consecutive game with at least 20 points, but her six steals highlighted the Vaqueros' defensive dominance against the Bulldogs.
The first half was tightly contested, with neither team able to build more than a small lead. Santa Barbara closed the second quarter on an 11-0 run, heading into halftime with a 37-33 advantage.
"We played really well against Hancock's physicality in the first half, and we sustained," said head coach Sandrine Krul.
Santa Barbara's halftime adjustments proved effective, as the Vaqueros held Allan Hancock to just two field goals in the third quarter while outscoring the Bulldogs 24-9.
"To start the third quarter, we made an adjustment to our press, and it was really impressive," Krul said. The Vaqueros recorded 22 steals and forced 34 turnovers throughout the game.
Beyond their defensive efficiency, Santa Barbara's depth played a significant role in the victory, as every available player saw time on the court.
"I know I say this a lot – but I truly mean it – it's always nice when a coach can play her bench and starters, and when the players coming in respond with so much joy, playing for each other," said Krul. "That's what this team has done all year long – they uplift each other. They don't care who gets the credit; they just want to get the victory. This team is very selfless."
Bosetti finished with 21 points, four 3-pointers, four rebounds, five assists, and just two turnovers.
Isis Poteet contributed 12 points, seven rebounds (four offensive), two assists, two steals, and two blocks, while Kaylee Lawson added eight points, three assists, and two steals.
Off the bench, Jaden Bone chipped in seven points and four rebounds. Siena Hoban recorded four points, seven assists, and three steals, while Mariia Shtykova knocked down two 3-pointers for six points.
Santa Barbara improved to 21-5 overall and 9-2 in conference play. The Vaqueros will conclude the regular season at Cuesta College on Friday.