The #2-seed Murrieta Valley Lady Nighthawks (24-5) continued their cruise through the playoffs with a 64-34 win over the #7 Segerstrom Jaguars (23-6, 8-2, Golden West #2) last Saturday. They had previously beaten Citrus Hill (64-39) and Saugus (51-35).

The Lady Nighthawks executed Coach Scott Richards’ game plan to perfection, containing the Jaguars’ two leading scorers (Kayla Stephens, Natalie Perales), limiting second-chance opportunities by controlling the boards (42 rebounds) and taking advantage of transition opportunities.

Murrieta Valley had four players in double figures, led by Karen Wolf’s usual double-double of 15 points and 10 rebounds; Aliah Marshall also had 15 points and added six rebounds, four assists, three steals and a blocked shot. Ariana Hernandez had 11 points and three steals. Brynn Dahmer contributed 10 points, five rebounds, 3 blocks and a steal; Deshea Wilkes was 6-of-6 from the free throw line and had six rebounds and five assists. Sophomore Alex Morrison recorded seven points and seven rebounds as well a blocked shot.

The Lady Nighthawks hosted #6 Redondo Union Sea Hawks (19-11, 7-3, Bay League #3) in the semifinals on Tuesday, Feb. 26. The Sea Hawks beat Arroyo (55-19), #11 Norwalk (56-26), and #3 Patriots (55-38) to advance.