Santa Ana Steps Up With Victory Over No. 1 OCC

The Santa Ana women’s basketball team started the week unranked in Southern California, but the Dons will certainly show up in the next poll after a 58-53 victory over No. 1 Orange Coast in an Orange Empire Conference game Friday at OCC.

Santa Ana’s absence from the poll was because of five losses, four of which came against out-of-state colleges that offer scholarships.

But the Dons earned some respect Coach Jack Single said was lacking for his program.

Orange Coast (18-2, 1-1) was down by as many as 10 in the second half, but the Pirates rallied to pull to within 56-53 and had a shot to tie. OCC freshman Leah Wilde worked free for a three-point attempt with seven seconds left. Her shot looked good but hit the heel and bounced away.

Mary Pedro of Santa Ana (13-5, 2-0) got the ball, was fouled, and made both free throws with five seconds left to secure the victory.

Santa Ana sophomore forward Rochelle Anthony scored a game-high 21 points, including making five of eight three-pointers and led the Dons’ loud post-game celebration.

“I’m pumped,” said Anthony who was doing jumping jacks while the clock was stopped in the final minute. It feels good. We played hard.”