The Murrieta Mesa boys basketball team secured a significant victory over league rival Temecula Valley, winning 88-67 in the second round of the CIF Southern Section playoffs on March 15, 2024. This win marks the Rams’ first advancement to the quarterfinals in the school’s history, as they prepare to host Ontario Christian next week.
Playoff Success and Key Performances
In what was a rematch in the playoffs, Murrieta Mesa showcased their dominance early. The Rams trailed only once during the game, establishing a strong lead that reached as high as 24 points. Coach Chris Featherly acknowledged the challenge posed by Temecula Valley, noting, “Temecula Valley is a well-coached team, and we knew they weren’t just going to roll over in that second half.”
Fabian Ruiz led the charge for Murrieta Mesa with a game-high 28 points, including multiple crucial three-pointers that helped shift momentum in favor of the Rams. The team entered halftime with a commanding 46-27 lead, thanks in part to a 12-0 run in the second quarter, which featured six consecutive points from Kingston Saul.
Despite their substantial lead, Temecula Valley refused to back down. The Golden Bears made a strong effort in the fourth quarter, with junior guard Evan Fratt contributing 12 of his team-high 20 points during that period. Their efforts narrowed the gap to 13 points with just over four minutes remaining, but a timely three-pointer from Jagger Saul helped secure the Rams’ victory.
Looking Ahead
Murrieta Mesa’s journey to the quarterfinals signifies a pivotal moment for the program. The team has maintained a focused mindset throughout the season, reflecting on their commitment since summer training. Ruiz expressed optimism, stating, “We’ve had a tunnel vision about us since we got together in summer and fall and put the work into being a great team.” The Rams will face Ontario Christian on Tuesday night, a team that recently defeated San Marino 54-52.
As the playoffs progress, the excitement surrounding Murrieta Mesa’s basketball program continues to grow. With their historic win, the Rams are poised to make an even deeper run in the CIF Southern Section playoffs, showcasing their talent and determination on the court.