PREP BASKETBALL REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES : Boys’ Division III Regional Final : University of San Diego High vs. Pacifica, 11:30 a.m.

Where--Anaheim Arena.

University of San Diego High (28-3)--The second-seeded Dons rallied from a four-point deficit in the final three minutes to advance past Santa Margarita, 41-39, reaching the Southern California Regional final for the first time under Coach Jim Tomey. Josh Merrill, who has signed with Pepperdine, is the go-to guy for USDHS, averaging 21.6 points and 11 rebounds heading into the State tournament. But others have stepped up in the playoffs. Forward Tony Gutierrez scored 14 points, including three in the final 32 seconds, during the victory over Santa Margarita. Matt Bryan, a junior guard, scored 22 points in the San Diego Section championship victory over St. Augustine.

Pacifica (29-1)--Since losing to Orange, 76-72, in early December, the Mariners have won 27 consecutive games. Perhaps no victory was more dramatic than the 65-62 semifinal triumph over San Diego St. Augustine on Thursday, when the Mariners rallied from a 20-point second-half deficit. Forwards Chris Vlasic, who averages 20 points, and Jon Surface led the Mariners offensively, but guards Jaimi Bessho, Ryan Teague and Dean Vergara were also instrumental in the comeback. Pacifica’s trademark pressure defense rattled St. Augustine and has carried the Mariners through the playoffs. It’s what sets Pacifica apart from the teams in the division, and could provide the Mariners with a trip to Oakland next weekend.

Key to the game--How many times can defense save the top-seeded Mariners? Against San Dimas last weekend in the Southern Section Division III-A final, the Pacifica held Arizona State-bound guard Jeremy Veal to 19 points then rallied in the second half to win. That defense will have to contain Merrill and second-seeded USDHS. If the Dons can control the tempo early, they’ll give Pacifica problems. But if the Mariners start fast, look for their press to wreak havoc and keep Pacifica on track for its first state title.

Starting Lineups

USDHS

P Name Ht. Avg. F Tony Gutierrez 6-5 9.0 F Josh Merrill 6-9 21.3 F Clint Cummings 6-3 8.1 G Matt Bryan 5-9 6.0 G Scott Pharis 6-0 1.7

Coach: Jim Tomey

PACIFICA

P Name Ht. Avg. F Erik Maurer 6-3 6.0 F Jon Surface 6-7 15.0 C Shane Miller 6-6 7.0 G Ryan Teague 6-0 12.0 G Dean Vergara 5-9 3.0

Coach: Bob Becker