MODESTO — Darrell Johnson was proud of his team’s effort, even it came in a loss.

With only seven players available, Weston Ranch made Crusader Classic host Modesto Christian work for its 45-40 win on Thursday. The Cougars were also without their top scorer Justice Stitt, who attended her sister’s college graduation.

“This is the kind of loss that we can learn from,” Johnson said. “I can see the growth in the team.”

Mariah Ghattas hit a 3-pointer with less than a minute remaining to close the Cougars (1-2) in by three, but Modesto Christian (2-0) was able to seal it with free throws. Ghattas finished with 12 points, and Nia Boston tallied 19 points.

Johnson praised the efforts of center Asani White, who was tasked with guarding 6-foot-4 standout Daj’a Bryant (19 points). White pulled down a team-high 13 rebounds.

Weston Ranch resumes tourney action tonight against Gregori.

Ripon Christian 47, Amador 31

JACKSON — The Knights (4-1) took a 24-12 halftime lead and cruised from there in the Argonaut Quarterback Club Tournament.

Morgan Van Elderen scored 12 points, while Renae Heida collected 10 points and 14 rebounds. The Knights face tourney host and reigning Sac-Joaquin Section Division V champion Argonaut today.

Lathrop 66,

McNair 22

STOCKTON — Lathrop (1-1) opened the Stagg Tournament with a landslide victory, holding McNair to five or less points in three quarters. The Spartans led 24-1 after the first.

Semajynique Steen led a balanced scoring effort with 15 points, Myani Thornton had 14 and Klarissa Tolete 11.

Manteca 40,

Kennedy 38

STOCKTON — The Buffaloes (2-1) held on for the win to start the Lincoln Trojan Clash.

Kyaria Jacobs and Jayda Jackson fired 10 and eight points, respectively. They’ll meet tournament host Lincoln tonight at 8.