Make it eight straight for Team Trouble.

The local American Basketball Association squad defeated the Orange County Novastars at the Lathrop High gymnasium this past weekend, 160-124.

Team Trouble, according to General Manager Jovan Bankston, could move up the rankings after its torrid first half against Orange County – the No. 7-rated squad opened the first quarter with 36 points, following that up with 47 more before halftime.

“The guys made sure they played like a nationally ranked team and didn’t overlook a very tough team,” he said. “Our guys could have easily overlooked the Novastars in gearing up for San Francisco.”

Team Trouble (12-2) will take on the SF City Cats (13-0) at historic Kezar Pavillion on Saturday. The City Cats are No. 2-ranked team – out of 140 listed in the ABA – with the outcome possibly determining the seeding in Far West Division playoffs in March.

“We are looking forward to taking care of business,” said owner James Paul of Team Trouble, one of a few teams to play SF tough during the season (the City Cats won by three in the earlier meeting).

Against Orange County, Team Trouble was led by small forward Aaron Stallworth, who netted 31 points with seven rebounds while earning Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Player of the Game.

Booker Shabazz added 17 points and five steals while Tim Howell chipped in with 16 points, five boards and three steals.

The Novastars were led by Thurman Thomas’ game-high 34 points and Antwon Tanner’s 23 points.

The latter is also an actor. Tanner acted in Coach Carter and was a regular on the CW’s One Tree Hill.

Team Trouble, in addition, will play an exhibition game against Travis AFB at 3 p.m. Sunday at Lathrop High.

Free entry is available for all Military, First Responders (current and previous) and government employees affected by the current shutdowns.

For more information, log on to www.teamtrouble.net.