After a loss to the fierce opponent San Marcos, the Bulldogs regrouped for the highly-anticipated rivalry games against the Ventura Cougars Tuesday, Jan. 10. 

The gym was alive with excitement as Ventura’s Sarah Beckman won the tip off, and three minutes and 41 seconds later, Ventura’s Skyler Knight scored a three-pointer. One impressive shot block by Buena’s Janelle Jimenez and a 30-second Buena timeout later, the first quarter ended with a score of 9-11 Ventura. 

At the start of the second quarter, Buena’s Karisma Lewis scored a two-pointer to tie the game 11-11. About three minutes into the quarter, there’s a travel on the Cougars. This change of momentum led to a two-pointer basket by Kailee Staniland and a three-pointer basket by Karisma Lewis, both Bulldogs. The second quarter ended with the close score of 17-16. While tensions were high during halftime, the cheer and dance team captivated the audience with amazing performances. 

Both teams continued to fight hard, with admirable showings from both teams. The third quarter ended with a tie, 26-26 and another energetic performance from cheer. 

“I think the best part of the game was the team working together,” Senior captain Janelle Jimenez said. 

In the final quarter, the Cougars and Bulldogs battled it out to the end. With less than two minutes left in the game, Buena’s Karisma Lewis sinks both free throws, gaining two more points, the score now being 42-36. The Cougars, trailing behind the Bulldogs, make two free throws at the 16.4 second mark. However, this is not enough to catch up and Buena comes out on top, the final score being 45-40. 

“[The best part was] our team coming together and making the free throws at the end,” Junior captain Skye Thomas said.

Everyone on the Buena side erupts with happiness and the basketball team celebrates, proud of beating their cross-town rival. 

“I was so happy I finally beat [Ventura] senior year,” Said Jimenez.