Hart Beats Burroughs Despite Foul Play

NEWHALL — Tuesday night’s game between Burroughs High and Hart figured to showcase the top teams competing for the Foothill League girls’ basketball championship.

But the two favorites left a foul impression. Hart was slightly less offensive and won, 53-44.

It was more a whistle-blowing contest than a basketball game. Forty-six fouls were called, and considering 42 turnovers were committed as well, ears are still ringing from the whistles.

Hart made 21 of 39 free throws. But both teams had plenty of opportunities. There were 61 foul shots in the 32-minute game.

“I’ve had my trouble with the officials, so I’m not going to rip [them],” said Burroughs Coach Doug Nicol. “We made key mistakes down the stretch.”

Four Burroughs players--starters Chantel Jimenez, Melolini Melaki and JoAnna Garrick, and reserve Olivia Sullivan--fouled out.

Hart standout Candace Boller also played in foul trouble, as did many of her teammates.

But Hart walked a tight rope to victory, thanks to forward Melissa Harrison, who finished with 25 points, 14 rebounds and, perhaps most importantly, only three fouls.

“Before the game, coach told me, ‘Don’t foul,”’ Harrison said.

Hart Coach Dave Munroe was asked about the officiating.

“No comment,” he said. “We won and it was a physical game.”

And Hart (12-5, 2-0), which never trailed after the early stages of the second quarter, managed to win without starters Christina Chao (flu) and Jelene Daney (hyperextended knee).

Erica Molina had 12 points and Jimenez added 10 for Burroughs (10-6, 1-1).

Hart was sparked by twins Renee and Emilee Reyna, sophomores who stand only 5 feet but combined for 11 points and 12 rebounds. Emilee had seven points, Renee had seven rebounds.