LEMOORE – No. 20 state-ranked West Hills College Lemoore overcame a first-half deficit but needed overtime to defeat visiting Cuesta College by a final score of 101-94 on Thursday night in both teams' 2023-24 season opener at Golden Eagle Arena.
The Golden Eagles trailed 54-46 at the break but outscored the Cougars 38-30 in the second to force overtime. West Hills got off to a quick start in the extra period, putting up 17 points to take the win and move to 1-0.
The entire starting five for the Golden Eagles scored in double digits. James Nichols and Trey Booker-Lowery were impressive in their season debuts, collecting double-doubles. Nichols led with 24 points and 13 rebounds while Booker-Lowery posted 20 points and 11 boards.
Marques Greene totaled 21 points and 7 rebounds, Kesean Bazile had 20 points and 5 assists, and Ryan Chavez chipped in with 12 points and 6 assists.
West Hills returns to action on Saturday (Nov. 4) when the Golden Eagles travel to Los Angeles Harbor College for a 4 p.m. non-conference game.
