After winning 3rd place in the Husky Invitational tournament, the girls varsity basketball team prepared for a tough game against Aliso Niguel. However, the Sea Queens lost to Aliso Niguel, despite their good effort in the third quarter.

The game took place on Tuesday at CdM’s gym. The first half was low scoring due to great defensive efforts by both teams. Aliso Niguel’s guards made 3-point shots look easy as with 15 of their first half points coming from behind the arc.

CdM, on the other hand was depending on their junior center Carolina Van der Velde to help them catch up. With 15 points, 14 rebounds, and 7 blocks at the end of the game, Van der Velde’s performance kept the Sea Queens in the game even after being down by 6 at the half.

In the third quarter, CdM’s speed came into play. Running the floor, the Sea Queens quickly found away around Aliso Niguel’s press, and took the lead away from the opposing team.

By the fourth quarter, the lead changed several times due to quick threes from Aliso Niguel and smart inside plays from CdM. With 2 minutes left in play, Aliso Niguel’s offense overshadowed the Sea Queens’ defense. CdM lost 46-39.

Despite an almost win, junior Ellie Nadal shined alongside her center counterpart. Nadal had 3 3-point shots in the game, and completed the game with 11 points.

The girls’ next game is away in Oxnard on Friday. After that on December 21st, the ladies will play cross town rivals Newport Harbor in the Battle of the Bay. Come out and support the girls.