DIVISION III-A GIRLS : La Canada Can’t Slow Down Rancho Alamitos

Despite a slow-down attempt by La Canada, Rancho Alamitos prevailed, 52-39, Wednesday in a Division III-A girls’ basketball playoff game at Glendale Hoover High.

Senior forward Timerie James scored 14 of her 17 points in the second half, helping to increase the Vaqueros’ one-point halftime lead. Rancho Alamitos outscored La Canada, 33-21, in the half.

Akilah Rodgers added 12 points for Rancho Alamitos, which will play Costa Mesa in the title game Saturday at Loyola Marymount. James also had 11 rebounds for the Vaqueros, who make their third trip to the championship game in four years. Last season, the Vaqueros (25-4) captured the III-A championship. La Canada finishes 19-9.