Capistrano Vallley (27-3) vs. Upland (30-1)

8:45 TONIGHT ARROWHEAD POND

Top-seeded Upland’s only loss this season came to defending state runner-up Fresno Clovis West--and that was 27 games ago. But Capistrano Valley Coach Brian Mulligan likens his unseeded team to a “very poor man’s” version of Clovis West and said his Cougars could give the Highlanders a run if they keep the game close early. Capistrano Valley has already defied expectations; few gave the Cougars a chance playing on the road against second-seeded Rialto Eisenhower in the semifinals. Upland Coach Jeff Klein said he’s impressed with the way Capistrano Valley moves the ball and penetrates. “They’ve got five gym rats,” Klein said. “They don’t overwhelm you with size or athleticism. They just know how to play.” Guard Jake Franzen, who averages 14.2 points, leads the Cougars in scoring. The Highlanders possess more well-known talent, including forward Kirk Snyder and guard Sheldon Pace. Neither team is used to playing on such a big stage. Capistrano Valley last appeared in a section title game in 1992, when it defeated Lynwood. This is Upland’s first title-game appearance.

LINEUPS

Capistrano Valley

G Jake Franzen, Jr.

14.2 points

G Jeff Gloger, Sr.

13.9 pts., 5.4 rebs., 4.8 asts.

G Pete DeCasas, Jr.

12.7 points, 6.1 rebounds

C Bryan Mallon, Sr.

8.1 points, 6.9 rebounds

G Justin Demere, Sr.

6.8 points

Upland

G Sheldon Pace, Sr.

14 points, 9.5 assists

G Jesse Pruitt, Sr.

10 points

F Prentice Harris, Sr.

10 points

F Jason Harris, Sr.

14 points, 5 rebounds

F Kirk Snyder, Sr.

20 points, 9.5 rebounds