Updated 3/20/2025 for grammar and clarity
Women’s basketball put together an amazing season, establishing itself as a powerhouse on the court. The team has compiled a near-flawless record, only dropping four losses and going completely undefeated into the championship game.
The team consistently destroyed their opponents, leaving no hope for victory, while also holding teams to an average of 47 points per game. The hard nosed defense from the women on the court helped them find a staggering 90-50 win in conference play, showing their dominance.
Head coach Brian Critchlow, who has spent 25 years coaching at SAC, shared the key to the team’s continued success. “We are a defensive-minded team. Everything we do starts and ends with our defense. At the end of the day, we can stop them as many times as we want, but if we don’t put the ball in the basket, they still have a chance,” Critchlow said.
SAC’s season was defined by big-game performances and clutch victories. In the state semifinals, they faced College of the Sequoias, a team that was riding a 31-game winning streak. SAC showed a lot of heart by edging out the Sequoias 57-50 to punch their ticket into the championship game.
The championship run was one of magic, with every woman on the court finding a way to shine and create success for the team as a whole. Sophomore guard/forward Daisia Mitchell (24) earned South Coast Conference North Division Player of the Year, helping her team dominate all season.
SAC secured its ninth state title with a 52-39 championship win over the Orange Coast Pirates, led by Mitchell’s 12 points and 14 rebounds. This ensured a 14-game winning streak, finishing off the season with a bang.
“I just think of their desire and determination to fit into the history and the tradition of the program. I think they wanted to be champions, they wanted to continue the great work in the women’s basketball program as years in the past,” Critchlow said.
The 2024 season has not only brought SAC another championship but also further established the women’s basketball team as a dynasty. This proves that the program is as strong as ever and is capable of bringing home the gold whenever they are on the court.
