Lady Cougars Cruise to 70-43 Over L.A. Pierce

Behind a triple-double performance from sophomore guard Marina Rojas, the College of the Canyons women's basketball team opened its Western State Conference (WSC) schedule by defeating visiting L.A. Pierce College 70-43 on Saturday evening at the Cougar Cage.

Canyons (6-13, 1-0) picked up a much needed win after having lost the last three contests. Meanwhile, Rojas continued her strong season by finishing the night with 16 points, 11 assists and a game-high 16 rebounds to record her second tripe-double of the season. 

On Dec. 28, Rojas finished the Lady Cougars' win vs. University of Antelope Valley junior varsity with 21 points, 19 rebounds and 12 assists.

Canyons started the game with an 8-2 early run and never looked back. COC ended the first quarter ahead 17-8 and pushed the advantage to 20 after three quarters of play.

Rojas had been flirting with a triple-double most of the game, but was finally able to seal the deal with a pass to Crystal Oribio with three minutes left in the game.

COC freshman Morgan Bizzell led all scorers with 18 points and added seven rebounds. This was Bizzell's fourth straight game with a double-digit point total.

Freshman Gissel Sanchez came up with 16 points and three steals, with nine points coming from behind the arc. Sanchez has scored 10 or more points in all but four games this season.

Canyons freshman Dayna Tanaka provided the Lady Cougars with 12 points and three steals in the winning effort. Sophomore Tasi Ramon was big on the boards with nine rebounds and led the game with six steals.

Canyons returns to action at 7 p.m. Wednesday Jan. 25, when the Lady Cougars travel to Santa Monica College (14-8, 2-0).

COC will return home at 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28, vs. Bakersfield College.