COD Women’s Basketball sinks Pirates, 88–43

The College of the Desert Women's Basketball team (9-8; 3-2) delivered a commanding performance on Saturday, cruising past the Palo Verde Pirates of Blythe (1-18; 0-7) with an 88–43 victory. The Roadrunners caught fire early and never looked back, draining an incredible 21 three-pointers and showcasing one of their most complete team efforts of the season.

The 45-point margin of victory is COD's largest since at least before the 2012–13 season, surpassing a 43-point home win over Imperial Valley (70–27) on January 11, 2017. The win also snapped a two-game road skid in the series since Palo Verde reinstated its athletics program in 2022–23.

Freshman forward Mia Aceituno (Bermuda Dunes Desert Christian Academy) turned in a historic night, recording the program's first triple-double in recent memory. Aceituno tallied 14 points on 6-of-13 shooting, pulled down 11 rebounds, dished out 11 assists, and added 6 steals in the all-around performance.

All five COD starters scored in double figures, marking a true team win. Sophomore guard Giovanna Espinoza (La Quinta H.S.) led all scorers with 23 points, connecting on a career-high seven three-pointers (7-of-15). It was her eighth game this season eclipsing the 20-point mark.

Sophomore guard Audrey Tijerina (La Quinta H.S.) added 12 points, matching her season high with four treys, while freshman guard Ava Tethal (Palm Desert H.S.) also contributed 12 points, hitting 4-of-9 from long range. Sophomore forward Olivia Castaneda (Menifee Paloma Valley) posted an efficient 11 points on 5-of-7 shooting, along with 5 assists and 4 steals.

Off the bench, sophomore guard Dominique Moreno (Desert Hot Springs H.S.) provided a spark, adding 12 points and knocking down four three-pointers of her own.

The Roadrunners will remain on the road for their next contest before returning home on Wednesday, January 21, at 5 p.m., when they host a tough Chaffey Panthers team from Rancho Cucamonga.

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For additional information, please contact the COD Sports Information Office at 760.423.6641.

Information & Story provided by COD Sports Information. Photo by Dale Beck Photography.