SOUTHERN SECTION BASKETBALL PLAYOFFS : Rancho Alamitos Rolls Past San Dimas

The Rancho Alamitos girls’ basketball team advanced further than any other in the high school’s history, reaching the 3-A final with a 76-50 semifinal victory over San Dimas Saturday night at Bolsa Grande High School.

Although the Vaqueros took a 17-0 lead to start the game, San Dimas fought back behind forward Natalie Kramer (17 points) to pull within 39-38 at the half.

But San Dimas went cold in the second half, managing only 12 points and six-for-35 (17%) shooting. And a minute into the fourth quarter, Kramer fouled out.

The Vaqueros were hot outside, making 12 three-point baskets, with Shellie Tsuji (18 points) and Melinda Lira (15 points) hitting five each.

“My two guards had their best games of the season tonight, but it was also a total team effort tonight,” Rancho Alamitos Coach Bob Becker said.

Forward Jenny Newsome had 11 points and 11 rebounds in the third period to spark Rancho Alamitos to a 58-46 lead at quarter’s end. She finished with a team-high 19 points and 14 rebounds.