Caruthers girls win back-to-back state championships

The Caruthers Blue Raiders girls basketball team won the Division-II CIF state title, defeating Rancho Bernardo 56-37. This victory marks their second consecutive state championship, making them the first Central Section team to achieve this feat. Caruthers built a strong lead by halftime, with Emmi Almeida scoring 21 points. The team dedicated their win to assistant coach Larry Trigueiro, who passed away last month, emphasizing their close-knit bond. In contrast, the Fresno Christian Eagles boys basketball team lost to Priory Panthers 83-66 in their first state championship appearance. Despite leading at halftime, they struggled against the Panthers' size in the second half.