The Pahrump Valley High School Boys’ Basketball team delivered a dominant performance Monday night, defeating the Pinecrest Academy Cadence Cougars 58-30 at home. The Trojans showcased strong teamwork, disciplined play, and offensive firepower, thrilling their home crowd.
The game opened with Keir Sheppard leading the charge, scoring the first four points with an inside shot and a layup. Eric Figueroa Renteria followed up with a three-pointer, putting the Trojans ahead 7-0 early in the first quarter. The Cougars fought back, sinking a jump shot, but Alejandro Lozano responded with an inside basket to maintain the Trojans’ momentum. By the end of the first quarter, the Trojans were firmly in control, leading 17-7, thanks to a crucial three-pointer from Lozano and a strong finish from Aydon Veloz, who converted a layup and free throw after drawing a foul.
In the second quarter, Tramaine Burras took over inside the paint. He scored multiple baskets, including a powerful dunk that electrified the crowd. Lozano added a layup and another basket to extend the lead. Despite Cadence’s attempts to rally, the Trojans maintained their defensive intensity, closing the half with a commanding 30-13 lead.
The Trojans continued to dominate in the second half. Sheppard contributed another layup early in the third quarter, followed by a smooth three-pointer to stretch the lead further. Burras added to his tally, drawing a foul and converting one of two free throws. The defense stifled Cadence’s offense, allowing the Cougars only six points in the third quarter. Heading into the final period, the Trojans held a 40-21 advantage.
In the fourth quarter, Pahrump Valley sealed their victory with contributions from across the roster. Lozano and Burras continued to score efficiently, while Lucas Gavenda made a notable impact with eight points, including a series of inside jumpers and free throws. Antwahn Jackson added a key basket after a strong rebound, and Nash Barnes capped the scoring with a late inside shot. Although Cadence managed a few late free throws and a three-pointer, the Trojans’ lead was never in jeopardy, closing out the game 58-30.
After the game, Head Coach Braydon Preston expressed pride in his team’s performance. “I think we finally put all the pieces together tonight,” Preston said. “We limited turnovers, boxed out well, and kept our offense under control. This is the kind of performance we’ve been striving for.”
Looking ahead to Wednesday’s matchup against SLAM Academy, Preston highlighted the need for defensive improvements. “Defensively, we’ve got to get better against SLAM,” he said. “I’ll be watching film tomorrow to prepare, but we’re ready to take on the challenge.”
Coach Preston also emphasized the importance of the team effort. “I want to give a special shout-out to the whole team. We put all the pieces together tonight, and that’s what’s expected,” he added.
The Trojans will aim to build on this strong performance as they prepare for their next game. While there is still room for growth, Pahrump Valley has shown they have the potential to be a competitive team this season.
