Pirates losing streak ends with 58-54 win over Taft

Sophomore Kathy Rodriguez had a huge game, posting a double-double of 15 points and 15 rebounds to help lead Porterville College to a 58-54 win over visiting Taft College on Saturday night.

The Central Valley Conference victory snapped the Pirates' season-long 10-game losing streak. It also avenged a 75-60 defeat by Taft back on January 23.

On Saturday, Porterville held a narrow 27-25 advantage at halftime and outscored the Cougars (4-19, 1-10 CVC) 31-29 over the final two quarters to hang on for the win.

Rebounding proved key in the win as the Pirates outrebounded Taft by a 55-22 margin which led to numerous second and third-chance scoring opportunities. Raeleen Jensen added 9 rebounds to go with 6 points while Sierra Perez grabbed 8 boards and scored 11 points.

Rodriguez added 4 blocks and 2 steals to her epic night while Breyanna Hernandez had a good game off the bench by contributing 9 points.

On Wednesday (Feb. 20), Porterville will honor its four sophomores – Kassy Cervantes, Ashley Campos, Perez, and Rodriguez, as they play in their final home game for the Pirates. PC hosts College of the Sequoias at 6 p.m. before its season-finale next Saturday (Feb. 23) at Reedley College.