Despite only scoring nine second-half points Wednesday, Lathrop’s girls basketball team still  held off visiting Oakdale 30-28 for its first Valley Oak League victory of the season.

The Mustangs (2-3 VOL, 11-7 overall) had a chance at the game-winning shot but couldn’t convert.

The Spartans, who improved to 1-5 in league, 5-12 overall, grabbed the final rebound before running out the clock.

“It was a very tight game,” Lathrop head coach Ed Fang said. “It was neck-and-neck and went right down to the wire. We’re glad we got that first (VOL) win under our belts, and hopefully it will get things going for us.”

Lathrop’s strongest quarter was the second, when it outscored Oakdale 12-4 and took a 22-11 lead into the break.

Despite the Mustangs going on a 9-2 run during the third quarter, Lathrop still tallied seven more in the fourth and escaped with the win.

Senior Akilah Lesley led the Spartans with 11 points and senior center Loreal Taylor scored eight and hauled in nine rebounds. Junior Desiree Mendola chipped in six.

Lathrop will visit Kimball on Friday, followed by Sierra and Weston Ranch next week.

Freshman

Lathrop 44, Oakdale 22

Danya Phillips produced 12 points, 11 rebounds and five blocks as the Spartans charged out to a 28-10 halftime lead and cruised from there.

Shianne Brito added eight points and four steals, while Kaitlyn Castantino chipped in six points, four steals and five assists.