The 2024 Scattini Memorial Basketball Tournament tipped off in thrilling fashion, showcasing high-energy performances and impressive talent on the court. Host team Palma delivered a commanding win to cap off an action-packed first day in the Edward M. Dowd Gymnasium. Here's how the opening round unfolded:

Game 1: Independence 56, Soquel 43

Independence started strong, exploding to a 24-7 lead in the first quarter and never looking back. By halftime, they extended their dominance to 30-13, with Soquel struggling to close the gap. The Soquel Knights found some rhythm in the second half but couldn't overcome Independence's relentless pace.

• Independence Leaders: Josh Villanueva led all scorers with 21 points, while Ethan Gualberto added 11.
• Soquel Leaders: Nolan Westfall and Steely Deans each scored 8 points to pace the Knights.

Game 2: Dougherty Valley 64, Enterprise 39

Dougherty Valley's dynamic duo of Rashad Cotton and Kenny Cloud powered their team to a comfortable win over Enterprise. Cotton's 20 points and Cloud's 12 helped the Wildcats pull away after a competitive first quarter. Enterprise struggled to keep up in the second half, with Alijah Collins leading their offense with 19 points.

• Dougherty Valley Leaders: Rashad Cotton (20 points) and Kenny Cloud (12 points).
• Enterprise Leaders: Alijah Collins (19 points) and Ja'kye Rauls (12 points).

Game 3: Palma 73, Seaside 31

The host Palma Chieftains made a statement in their tournament debut, dominating Seaside from start to finish. A suffocating defense and balanced offensive attack saw Palma jump to a 17-4 lead in the first quarter and extend their advantage to 41-13 by halftime.

Tai Suich led the way with 14 points, while JT Harreld added 11 and Soren Roberts chipped in 10. Palma also showcased their depth, with Miles Holaday contributing 9 points off the bench.

Seaside's Timote Tulua battled hard, finishing with 12 points, but the Spartans were overwhelmed by Palma's speed and precision.

• Palma Highlights: Tai Suich (14 points), JT Harreld (11 points), and Soren Roberts (10 points).
• Seaside Leader: Timote Tulua (12 points).

Game 4: Marina 86, Salinas 45

Marina's fast-paced offense lit up the scoreboard, fueled by standout performances from Dylan Gomez (17 points), Shane Gloger (12 points), and Mark Yeager (12 points). The Mariners built a commanding 25-15 first-quarter lead and extended it throughout the game.

Despite Salinas' efforts, led by Kjan King with 10 points, Marina's depth and execution proved too much for the Cowboys.

• Marina Leaders: Dylan Gomez (17 points), Shane Gloger (12 points), and Mark Yeager (12 points).
• Salinas Leader: Kjan King (10 points).

Looking Ahead: Day Two Matchups

The action continues tonight with these exciting matchups:

• 3:30 PM: Salinas vs. Enterprise
• 5:00 PM: Soquel vs. Seaside
• 6:45 PM: Dougherty Valley vs. Marina
• 8:15 PM: Palma vs. Independence

The Palma Chieftains are set for a primetime showdown against Independence in what promises to be a high-energy battle. Don't miss it!

Stay tuned for more updates as the Scattini Memorial Tournament unfolds. Go Chieftains!