The Pahrump Valley High School varsity girls’ basketball team delivered a resounding 45-12 victory over the Sloan Canyon Pirates on Friday, January 10, showcasing teamwork, defensive tenacity, and offensive precision. The win was a much-needed morale boost for the team in what has been a challenging rebuilding season.
The Trojans wasted no time establishing their dominance, with Savannah Thompson scoring the opening basket and immediately making an impact defensively by stealing the ball, setting up a three-pointer by Ryleigh Denton. This early sequence ignited a strong start for Pahrump, and by the time the first quarter ended, they had surged to an 18-4 lead.
Denton continued her sharpshooting in the second quarter, adding another three-pointer off an assist from Riley Saldana, who was instrumental in both setting up plays and converting turnovers into points. Saldana’s long inbound pass to Denton for a breakaway layup was one of several examples of seamless teamwork. Nala Dalton also contributed with crisp passing, setting up Saldana for easy baskets.
The Trojans’ defensive effort was stifling, holding the Pirates to just six points by halftime. Ella Odegard played a key role off the bench, drawing fouls and converting free throws, while Addi Nelsen provided energy, adding a buzzer-beater layup to close the half with Pahrump leading 35-6.
The second half allowed Head Coach Bob Hopkins to rotate in bench players, providing them with valuable game experience. Despite slowing the tempo, the Trojans continued their dominance. Saldana’s hustle on defense led to multiple steals and breakaway points, while Trinity French, Nala Dalton, and Denton worked together to maintain control of the game. Odegard added another basket inside, and Nelsen capped the scoring with a strong finish in the fourth quarter.
The Pirates managed only six points in the second half, struggling against the Trojans’ disciplined defense and aggressive rebounding.
After the game, Coach Hopkins reflected on the team’s performance.
“We had a good game overall, but there are still some struggles on defense that we need to clean up,” he said. “Still, it’s always great to take a win when we get it.”
Hopkins also highlighted the importance of getting bench players more time on the court. “It’s good to give them that experience—it builds confidence and prepares them for bigger moments,” he noted.
The coach addressed the team’s ongoing challenges with injuries, revealing that key player Jules is expected to return from concussion protocol soon, possibly by the next game. He also mentioned Natalie, who recently suffered a shoulder injury and Evelyn, who is recovering from surgery, but may be able to join the team by the end of the season. “We’ve been shorthanded, but the kids are working hard. It’s a rebuilding season, and if we can finish around .500, I’ll be happy with that,” Hopkins said.
Riley Saldana and Ryleigh Denton were pivotal in the win, combining for significant points and providing defensive leadership. Saldana’s energy on both ends of the court and Denton’s scoring ability were crucial throughout the game. The return of Trinity French, though still not fully recovered, added depth to the roster, giving the team a stronger presence inside.
The Trojans’ effort against Sloan Canyon underscores their potential as a young team with room to grow. With only four seniors on the roster, the emphasis remains on building experience and cohesion for the future.
The Trojans face a challenging schedule ahead, but their determination and team-first mentality continue to shine through. With returning players gaining confidence and the possibility of key players recovering from injuries, Pahrump Valley High School is aiming for a strong finish to the season.
This decisive win not only boosts the team’s confidence but also highlights the progress being made under Coach Hopkins’ guidance. The Trojans are poised to continue improving and are determined to make every game count as they look to build a solid foundation for future success.
