OAKDALE — East Union raced out to a double-digit lead in the first quarter, and the margin held up for a 59-45 Valley Oak League win over dangerous Oakdale on Monday.
It was a needed victory for the Lancers (4-3, 10-8 overall) as they continue a tough stretch in the schedule. They lost ground in the VOL title race with back-to-back losses to Kimball and Manteca at home last week. On Thursday, they head to first-place Lathrop before facing Ripon — the top team out of the Trans-Valley League — for the annual Hoops for a Cure Classic on Saturday.
East Union began its busy week with a 19-8 run against the Mustangs (2-5, 9-10).
“We made a total commitment to defense,” East Union coach Jim Agostini said. “We worked hard on it in practice and it carried over into tonight. We came out with a lot more intensity and made it tough for Oakdale. We were able to push transition on them early.”
The Lancers had their way inside and out. In the post, Donja Payne grinded out 14 points and 12 rebounds, while Kayla Montoya also scored 14. Point guard Destiny Torio added 13 points, and Julia Vezaldenos chipped in eight. Grace Higle paced Oakdale with 17 points.

Manteca 65,
Central Catholic 38
MODESTO — The Buffaloes (5-2, 13-7) recorded a season-high in points scored behind a balanced attack spearheaded by freshman guard Kyaira Jacobs’ 16 points.
Jayda Jackson tallied 13 points and eight rebounds. Marissa Serrano and Adriana Valencia scored 11 points apiece. Selena Lopez scored four points but totaled seven assists.

Kimball 60, Sierra 21
TRACY — Missing two key starters, the Timberwolves (1-7, 8-13) struggled to keep up with the second-place team in the VOL.
Kimball (7-1, 15-4) were ahead 39-8 by halftime. Raziya Potter and Pearl Bautista scored 14 and 12 points, respectively, for the Jaguars.
Jasmin Correa led Sierra with six points. The T’wolves are without Natalia Dias (ACL) and Raiann Prieto (concussion).