Rehan Awan was a big presence in the post for Manteca in its season debut last Friday.

The junior center churned out 21 points, eight rebounds and two blocks, as the Buffaloes escaped Elk Grove with the 63-61 victory.

Antonio Fraley pitched in 13 points and eight assists. Madden Melendez added eight points, six assists and four rebounds. Austin Barnes contributed eight points and two blocks.

Mathias MacPhail led three Thundering Herd players in double figures with 21 points.

The Buffaloes are back in action Saturday at home against Lodi starting at 5.

Big Valley Christian 50, River Islands 34

River Islands had a tough shooting night in its season opener on Modesto, going oh-her on 3-point attempts in the second half after making three in the first.

Idrees Elfarra paced the Riptide with 12 points. Big Valley (2-0) led 21-18 at halftime and separated from there as River Islands’ shooting woes continued.

The Riptide face cross-town rival Lathrop at home next Tuesday, Dec. 2.

Freshman

Elk Grove 57, Manteca 42

Jordan Rossi racked up 11 points in the defeat for Manteca.

Blake Scalise added 10 points, and Luke Scalise had nine.