Jags Claw Their Way Back
CHULA VISTA --- After a string of head-scratching performances, tough losses, and facing a disappointing 3-8 record through the first eleven games, Jaguar basketball (7-3, 11-11) has clawed their way back and are currently in sole possession of second place in the Pacific Coast Athletic Conference.
The Jags have regained the confidence and swagger they may have lost after a rocky November and December. It is natural for players tie their identity to offensive production, and for defense to suffer as possessions drag on. It was never about lacking the personnel to beat non-conference opponents or the 'better' teams in the Pacific Coast Athletic Conference. It was about preparation, attention to detail, consistent execution, offensive development and steady output, and defensive effort and efficiency. The signs of improvement are statistically and visibly present for a program with preseason expectations of a winning campaign and postseason bid.
The six remaining PCAC contests that wrap up the regular season include a stretch of five games against opponents with combined conference records of 15-34. The Jags must capitalize and continue to collect wins in order to remain on a path to realistically make a run. Southwestern has a got a group of locked in guys with a one game at a time mindset. Early season struggles, changed nothing in the big picture.
REMAINING SCHEDULE
at Cuyamaca (Jan. 30) 5:00 PM
vs. MiraCosta (Feb. 6) 5:00 PM
at Grossmont (Feb. 11) 6:00 PM
vs. Mesa (Feb. 13) 5:00 PM
at City (Feb. 18) 7:00 PM
vs. Imperial Valley (Feb. 20) 7:00 PM
SOUTHWESTERN COLLEGE (key stats)
Overall Record: 11-11
Conference Record: 7-3
PTS Per Game: 80.2
FG%: 44.4
3PT%: 31.6
FT%: 71.5
DEF PTS Per Game: 77.9