Highlights: Reigning regional champion Santiago (Corona) defeats Westchester at H.O.P.E. Showcase

4-star senior Destiny Agubata led the Sharks to an impressive preseason showing

CYPRESS, Calif. - Santiago (Corona) girls basketball had its second banner year in a row last season.

After going largely under the radar on their way to a CIFSS 2-A title in 2021-22, the Sharks didn't sneak up on anybody in 2022-23. But they still made a section Open Division playoff appearance and won the Division 1 Southern Region championship.

Despite graduating some key pieces from last year's team, it's safe to say that Santiago isn't going under the radar again in 2023-24. In addition to returning Rylee Ghent, Jayda Cobbs, and Zawadi Ogot, Santiago now has one of the best players in California – 4-star forward/guard Destiny Agubata – ready to go after missing her junior year to injury. And a handful of solid contributors around that core.

In their first game at the 2023 H.O.P.E. Showcase, Santiago rolled to a 45-26 win over reigning CIFLACS Open Division champion Westchester. Agubata led the way with 15 points and a handful of every thing else, and Ghent added 11 points.

MORE: WESTCHESTER'S HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE GAME

Photo by Lance Smith

– Lance Smith | lance@scorebooklive.com | @sbliveca