Boys Basketball: Nighthawks Hang On to Beat Temecula Valley, 68-58

The Nighthawk varsity boys basketball team is back where it belongs, right on top of the Southwestern League standings. Murrieta Valley improved its record to 3-2 with a rousing 68-58 win over Temecula Valley.

Both teams came ready to play. The Nighthawks took an early lead and were up by six at the half, leading 28-22. The Golden Bears came roaring back in the third period. They outscored Murrieta Valley by 10 and took a 4-point lead into the final quarter.

Coach Steve Tarabilda’s Nighthawks rallied back in the final period and pulled from a 55-55 tie with three minutes left to play. Final Score Nighthawks 68, Golden Bears 58.

The loss puts Temecula Valley at 2-3 in league play.

Kevin Padlo was named player of the game by Tarabilda.

“Kevin led all scorers with a game high 30 points, by hitting 5 for 11 from 2-point range. He was 4 for 11 from 3-point range and 8 for 9 at the charity stripe. However, it his great defensive effort was one to recognize,” Tarabilda said.

Tyler Bilton scored 17 points for Murrieta Valley while Thomas Alexandre brough eight. Mitchell Lenhart scored four and Jacob Forte three.

Jordan Williams and Talon Watkins both had two-points for the Nighthawks.

With the Southwestern League season at the half-way point, Murrieta Valley is locked in a four-way tie for first place with Chaparral, Murrieta Mesa and Great Oak.

The Wolfpack, who beat the Nighthawks in their last meeting, will be in town Friday night. Great Oak dropped a heartbreaker to the Rams 58-55 Wednesday.

Vista Murrieta won its first league game defeating Chaparral 59-50 Wednesday.

Game time is 7 p.m. Come on out and support the Nighthawks as they face the Wolfpack in a showdown for first place.