Just days after upsetting perennial powerhouse Brea Olinda 59-49 in the first round of playoffs, Great Oak fell victim to an even more formidable opponent in Long Beach Poly, 65-26. The Jackrabbits are ranked #16 in the nation by USA Today and seeded #4 in CIF-SS Division 1AA.

The young Wolfpack team was no match for the athletic Jackrabbits and their aggressive stifling full-court press that forced almost forty turnovers.

"We’re not a big team," said Poly Coach Carl Buggs, "so we have to play with non-stop pressure."

"They are so fast and athletic," said Wolfpack Coach Maurice Shannon. "We can’t duplicate their press in practice and they execute so well from defense to transition. We see this as a great learning experience to see what it takes to play at this level next year and years after."

"Their defense was phenomenal!" wistfully exclaimed team leader junior Roya Rustamzada who was held to just five points, all from the free throw line. "This is the best team we’ve played this season."

She was the only player mentioned by Buggs as a potential concern; "she is a solid ball player and a difference-maker that we have to contain." Rustamzada contributed six rebounds, three steals and three assists.

Sophomore McKayla Williams also had six points, 10 rebounds and four steals.

"I’m impressed with her tenacity and athleticism," said Shannon. Abbey Welch, also a sophomore, scored six.

Poly also hit nine three’s; three back-to-back-to-back in the third quarter. Justyce Dawson hit four three’s. Arica Carter scored 13 in the first half.

"This is Great Oak’s first playoff win in three years," said Shannon. "It’s exciting to see the growth in everyone this year."

Most of the team returns next year. "I am so excited for next year," said Rustamzada. "We know now what we need to do to compete at this level!"