SOLEDAD — The Soledad High boys basketball team began play in the Central Coast Section Division III playoffs last night by hosting the Pajaro Valley High Grizzlies. The Aztecs also hosted the Grizzles last year in the first round and lost 50-46 at home.
“They can shoot,” said Soledad head coach Nick Twitchell. “They (Grizzlies), are not too big but are quick and active. They have a sophomore, Christian Quintero who averages 20 points a game. They beat us in the same spot last year.”
Soledad finished the Mission Trail Athletic League season last week and placed third in league behind the champion Carmel Padres and second place Pacific Grove. The Aztecs finished with a 12-13 overall record.
Last Wednesday in Soledad the Aztecs beat Oakwood 62-42 and were led in scoring by Beto Tinajero with 20 points and Billy Hollman with 14 points.
“It was a close game until the middle of the third quarter,” said Coach Twitchell. “We pulled away for the win after that.”
On Friday on the Monterey Peninsula the Aztecs defeated the Trinity Christian Warriors, 65-61. Adrian Martinez led Soledad with 13 points and Conan Alvarez and Hollman scored 12 points apiece against the Warriors.
“We got a 15 point lead,” said Coach Twitchell. “We gave up most of the lead in the fourth but were able to hold on.”
