Area Girls Basketball Teams Head for CIF Playoffs

The Southwestern League is sending five of six varsity girls basketball teams to CIF Playoffs this year.

CIF Southern Section Division 3AAA first round action kicks off Wednesday when Murrieta Mesa travels to Sonora to play the Raiders. The Rams were awarded an at-large playoff berth after finishing the season 13-13 overall. This will be the Lady Rams' second CIF Playoff appearance. 

On Saturday, Chaparral will travel to Fullerton for a Division 1AA contest against Troy High School. The Pumas will have their hands full, as the Warriors were 22-3 overall and are ranked eighth in the state.

In another Division 1AA match, Great Oak will be in Brea taking on the Wildcats from Brea Olinda High School, who finished the season with an 18-6 record.

In the 1A Division, Southwestern Champion Vista Murrieta will be at home against Trabuco Hills High School from Mission Viejo. The Mustangs were 7-18 this year. The Broncos ended the season with a 10-game winning streak and a 22-5 overall record.  

The Nighthawks will also be at home Saturday. Murrieta Valley will host Citrus Valley at the Hawk's Nest. The Blackhawks come into town with a 13-13 overall record. The Nighthawks were 21-5 overall and finished second to the Broncos last week.