As the 2024-25 basketball season unfolds, Tehachapi and Monache have emerged as standout teams in California, boasting impressive records and strong performances on the court. Here’s a look at how these two squads are shaping up as they continue their pursuit of success in their respective seasons.

Tehachapi’s Perfect Start

Tehachapi enters the season with a flawless 5-0 record, dominating opponents both at home and on the road. The team has been firing on all cylinders, averaging 63 points per game while holding opponents to 169 total points. They are outpacing their competitors in every quarter, with an average of 22 points in the first, 18 in the second, and 16 in the third quarter, finishing with a commanding fourth-quarter average of 4 points.

The star player for Tehachapi is Riley Walden, who leads the team with 22.6 points per game. Koree Rodden, another key player, contributes significantly with 10 rebounds per game, and his 4.6 assists per game also show his versatility on the floor.

Tehachapi’s strengths are in its well-rounded gameplay, averaging nearly 30 rebounds per game and 9.8 steals, indicating a strong defensive presence as well as efficient ball movement. They are looking like a formidable force in their section.

Monache’s Strong Performance

Monache, with an 8-1 record, has also been impressive, with the team outscoring opponents 484 to 409. Their scoring average of 53.8 points per game is complemented by a solid defense, allowing only 409 points. Monache has been consistent in their scoring, with their highest point output coming in the fourth quarter (11.5 points per game), showcasing their ability to finish strong.

The standout player for Monache is Milly Rojas, who is not only the team’s top scorer with 17.2 points per game but also leads in rebounds with 5.7 per game. Rojas’ contributions extend to assists and steals, demonstrating her all-around game.

Monache also has a balanced squad with players like Kyah Bartlett, who chips in with 3.6 steals per game, giving Monache a strong presence on both ends of the court.

Head-to-Head Comparison

When comparing both teams’ performance metrics, Tehachapi leads in scoring with an average of 63 points per game compared to Monache’s 53.8. Additionally, Tehachapi excels in rebounds, averaging 29.8 per game, compared to Monache’s 24.4. Tehachapi’s defensive numbers are also superior, with more steals and blocks than Monache.

However, Monache holds a slight advantage in certain areas, particularly in steals, where they average 12.7 per game compared to Tehachapi’s 9.8, which may indicate their ability to create turnovers and generate fast-break opportunities.

Both teams are undefeated against common opponents so far this season, which bodes well for their upcoming matchups. Notable games between these two programs are expected to be highly competitive, with their strength on both offense and defense promising exciting basketball.

Looking Ahead

Tehachapi and Monache will continue to build their legacies with tough games ahead. Tehachapi’s impressive early-season dominance, led by Walden and Rodden, positions them as a team to beat, while Monache’s balanced attack, featuring standout performances from Rojas and Bartlett, makes them equally dangerous.

With both teams showing incredible potential, the rivalry between Tehachapi and Monache will be one to watch as the season progresses, particularly in their common matchups against teams like Bullard and Sierra Pacific. As they head toward league play and the postseason, these two teams will undoubtedly make a deep impact in California high school basketball this season.