The Pahrump Valley High School (PVHS) Trojans girls’ basketball team began their campaign in the 24th Annual Holiday Classic tournament with impressive performances, securing two victories before facing a tough challenge in their third game. The team’s talent, teamwork, and relentless defense were on full display as they took on opponents from across the region.
On January 2, the Trojans opened the tournament with a 44-28 victory over the Doral Academy Red Rock Dragons. From the start, PVHS established their dominance with an aggressive full-court press that disrupted the Dragons’ offense. Early contributions from Ella Odegard and Riley Saldana helped the Trojans build an 8-2 lead in the first quarter. Saldana continued to shine throughout the game, driving to the basket for key layups and securing crucial rebounds. Ryleigh Denton also made her presence felt with a full-court layup and a standout three-point attempt, while Savannah Thompson’s offensive rebounds added to the team’s momentum. By halftime, the Trojans had secured a 25-19 lead and continued to pull away in the second half, with contributions from Natalie Soto, Sydney Crotty, and Addi Nelsen helping seal the win.
Later that day, PVHS delivered another dominant performance, defeating Pinecrest Cadence Cougars 49-18. Once again, their full-court press proved to be a game-changer, stifling the Cougars’ offense and creating scoring opportunities for the Trojans. Denton showcased her versatility, hitting a three-pointer early in the game and setting up teammates with key assists. Saldana continued her stellar tournament, scoring off inbound plays and driving to the basket with ease. Odegard played a critical role inside, grabbing offensive rebounds and converting them into points. Thompson and Nala Dalton also contributed significantly, with Thompson consistently finding the basket from the right post. In the second half, PVHS shifted to a 1-3-1 defense, allowing younger players like Julie Briggs and Cindal Monahan to step up and add to the scoreboard.
On the morning of January 3, the Trojans faced their toughest test yet against the Del Sol Dragons. Del Sol’s full-court press and early scoring barrage gave them a commanding lead, with the Trojans trailing 27-2 by the end of the first quarter. Despite the slow start, PVHS fought back with resilience. Saldana led the effort, breaking through the press and scoring multiple times while also grabbing rebounds to help keep her team in the game. Dalton and Odegard added crucial points in the second quarter, while Nelsen and Crotty contributed late in the game. Though the Trojans ultimately fell 67-24, the game offered valuable lessons and opportunities for growth as they prepare for future matchups.
