Tonight’s Southern California Regional : Prep Basketball Semifinal Games

BOYS’ DIVISION II

Santa Margarita (24-6) at Compton Dominguez (31-2), 7:30 p.m.

Santa Margarita faces its toughest challenge of the season. Dominguez, which has won consecutive Southern Section II-A titles and is on a 29-game winning streak, is regarded by many as the best team in the state. The Dons have been rolling through the playoffs, averaging 89 points while holding opponents to 57. And if Dominguez needs further incentive, the Dons--whose only losses are to L.A. Fremont and New York St. John’s Prospect--have never won a state title. Last year, they were defeated by Mountain View St. Francis, 73-65, in the title game. Among Dominguez’s talented starters are junior guard Kenny Brunner (10.1 points), who averages only seven assists but is rarely called upon to play an entire game. The Dons are also strong inside thanks to sophomore forwards Jason Thomas (6 feet 5, 24 points) and Tayshaun Prince (6-8, 11 points). Santa Margarita, which has a nine-game winning streak, is powered by 6-3 guard Dennis Keane (16.4 points) and 6-8 center Allen Krist (20.4). Coach Jerry DeBusk said after Tuesday’s 65-40 victory over San Diego Scripps Ranch that the Eagles would have to play their best game against Dominguez. Even that might not be enough.