GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

There are 39 Orange County teams in the girls’ basketball playoffs, but only Brea Olinda is expected to win its division, according to the selection committee.

The Ladycats--ranked No. 1 in the state--are seeded No. 1 in Division II-AA, and looking to win a 10th consecutive section title.

Wild-card games and the first round of Divisions II-A and IV-AA begin play Thursday. Other divisions begin Saturday.

Brea (25-1) wasn’t the only team expected to reach the finals, however. Calvary Chapel (21-5) moved into the larger IV-AA and is seeded second to Santa Monica Crossroads. The Eagles host San Gabriel Mission Thursday.

Rosary (15-11), third in the Golden West League, was seeded third in Division III-A.

Esperanza (18-8), second in the Sunset League, was seeded fourth in Division I-AA.

Orange County teams dominated the seedings in Division II-AA. In addition to Brea, Troy (25-2) was seeded third and El Dorado (22-3)--ranked higher than Troy all season in the county poll--was seeded fourth. Bellflower (23-3) was second.