Sierra Canyon Basketball Triumphs Over Notre Dame, Honors JuJu Watkins

Sierra Canyon High School celebrated one of its most distinguished athletes, JuJu Watkins, while the boys’ basketball team showcased their talent by defeating Sherman Oaks Notre Dame 78-74 in a thrilling Mission League matchup on March 15, 2024. The game, which aired live on ESPN2, allowed the Trailblazers to demonstrate why they are ranked among the top teams in the nation.

The match unfolded at the Sierra Canyon gym in Chatsworth, where the Trailblazers capitalized on their home advantage. Despite trailing 33-28 at halftime, the team rallied in the second half, led by Brandon McCoy, who scored 21 points, including several impressive dunks. Contributions came from Brannon Martinsen with 18 points, North Carolina-bound Maximo Adams with 17, and Jordan Mize, who added 12 points. A pivotal three-pointer by Mize initiated a 9-0 run at the start of the third quarter, turning the momentum in favor of the Trailblazers.

Sierra Canyon, now boasting a 15-1 overall record and 2-0 in league play, celebrated its 10th consecutive win following its only loss to Forestville (Md.) Bishop McNamara on December 6, 2023. The team is currently ranked No. 1 in the Southland by The Times, underscoring their status as a formidable contender this season.

On the opposing side, NaVorro Bowman Jr. of Notre Dame delivered a standout performance, scoring a game-high 36 points. His efforts included a remarkable half-court shot that brought the Knights within five points entering the fourth quarter. Bowman had 14 points in the first quarter and 21 by halftime, showcasing his scoring prowess with six three-pointers. Zachary White also contributed 14 points for the Knights, who are now 13-6 overall and 0-2 in league play after a tough opening loss to unranked Loyola.

Honoring a Trailblazer

In a heartfelt halftime ceremony, Sierra Canyon retired JuJu Watkins’ No. 12 jersey, making her the first player in the school’s history to receive this honor. The 2021-22 California Player of the Year is currently making waves at the University of Southern California (USC). Sierra Canyon girls’ coach Alicia Komaki highlighted Watkins’ legacy, stating, “What makes JuJu special isn’t what she dodged but how she did it. She gave her heart to this place; she left her legacy, and this is a reminder of her excellence.”

Mize expressed his desire to see his own jersey hanging from the rafters one day. “We talked about this being a big game and how there would be a big crowd,” he said. “I knew this was very important for JuJu, so I can’t let her down. We got it done, but I think we’re still getting better.”

As the season continues, Sierra Canyon aims to build on its success, further solidifying its position among the elite basketball programs in the country.