Ventura Buena (28-0) vs. Troy (26-4)

6:30 TONIGHT PYRAMID, LONG BEACH STATE

Buena is ranked No. 1 in the state and most other polls for a reason, but Troy is facing the Bulldogs under the right circumstances--a neutral court in a game that matters. Troy’s chances depend largely on playing perfect fundamental basketball and preventing the Bulldogs from getting second shots. The Warriors’ three playoff victories have been by 23, 28 and 47 points, and Veronica Johns-Richardson has led the way, averaging 8.8 assists. Johns-Richardson is shooting 55% from the field, but that’s less than teammates Alicia Komaki (56.5%), Kianey Givens-Davis (58.4%) and Amanda Livingston (62.25%). If there is an intangible advantage, it might be Troy’s. This is the Warriors’ third final in four years at the Pyramid. Though Buena is in its 14th title game in 23 years and is seeking its seventh title, its seniors are making their first championship appearance. They present a formidable challenge with three major college players: 6-foot-3 center Nicole Greathouse (North Carolina State), 5-10 guard Courtney Young (Tennessee) and 6-2 junior forward Courtney LeVere.

LINEUPS

Buena

G Emily Lewis, Jr.

4.0 assists, 3.2 steals

G Lauren Sargent, Sr.

41.9% 3-point pct.

G Courtney Young, Sr.

19.3 points, 5.2 rebounds

F Courtney LeVere, Jr.

13.5 points, 7.4 rebounds

C Kelly Greathouse, Sr.

21.7 points, 11.7 rebounds

Troy

G Alicia Komaki, Jr.

13.3 points, 5.6 assists

G V. Johns-Richardson, Sr.

16.7 points, 7.5 rebounds

F Meghan McGuire, Fr.

9 points, 5.5 rebounds

F Amanda Livingston, So.

14.5 points, 9.9 rebounds

C Kianey Givens-Davis, Sr.

12 points, 8.2 rebounds