Dejah Wright Breaks RCC’s Single Game Scoring Record in Win over Grossmont

It was a record-breaking night for sophomore guard Dejah Wright (Moreno Valley, CA) in the first round of the Riverside City College women's basketball's "Earn Our Stripes" Tournament against Grossmont on Friday night. In the midst of an 85-71 victory, the sophomore standout finished with a record-setting 44 points which tops the former record held by current Head Coach Alicia Berber at 41 points.

"It feels great and it's an honor to coach a kid like Dejah Wright," said Berber when asked about her performance.

Wright had everything working for the Tigers early on by notching 13 points in the first quarter alone. She scored on four-consecutive possessions leading to an early Riverside advantage. She capped the first quarter by fighting her way to the line and burying two free throws leading to a 27-20 benefit.

The second half started somewhat sloppy, but the Tigers remained poise. Wright came out by hitting two more free throws, but a small scoring drought brought the Griffiths right back into the contest at 31-28.

Nevertheless, Wright axed the small skid by snapping home a trio of three pointers leading to a 44-39 advantage at halftime.

Grossmont continued to fight for the lead, but the Tigers were relentless in their attack by driving the lane and working their way to the line. Sophomore guard Joana Adams (Palm Springs, CA) began the trend by hitting two free throws, backed by sets from freshman guards Dayna Dewitt (Mansfield, CA) and Kimari Hollis (Moreno Valley, CA). Hollis followed by hitting a nice jumper to take a 62-50 lead into the final frame.

Wright continued to cart a hot hand in the fourth by nailing a three in the early stages. Adams backed her with a layup, followed by Hollis kissing two points off the glass. Wright followed by accounting for 14 of the final 16 points en route to the victory.

"Listening and being coachable is so key," said Berber. "They followed the game plan perfectly."

Wright was the story as she inked her name in the record books with a 44-point performance. She added seven rebounds and four steals as well. The veteran utilized a 6-for-9 clip from long range that was included in her 14-for-23 mark from the floor. Additionally, she went 10-for-17 from the line.

Hollis was nearly a triple-double as she finished with 12 points, nine assists, and seven board. Adams and Dewitt both dropped 10 points as well.

The Tigers (1-2) will face off against Solano tomorrow at 7 p.m. to earn their chance to play for the tournament title.