The Calabasas High School varsity girls basketball team showed resilience on Friday, Jan. 9, even in a 59-54 loss to Westlake High School. The Coyotes came out strong, answering Westlake’s early opening three-pointer with one of their own and using solid defense to control the early pace. Despite a challenging season and a 5-11 record so far, Calabasas displayed moments of skill and teamwork that kept the game close and exciting for fans throughout all four quarters.
“We’ve faced a lot of tough competition this year, but we’re learning how to play together and stay confident. Even when the record doesn’t show it, we know the work we’re putting in is paying off,” said senior Sophie Krikhelli, who plays small forward and point guard for the Coyotes.
Trista Federman, a junior who is a small forward for Calabasas, anchored the team’s defensive effort early, helping slow Westlake’s offense and control the pace. Calabasas scored 15 points in the first quarter to Westlake’s 7, setting an early tone for the matchup.
Westlake responded in the second quarter with improved shooting, connecting on multiple two- and three- pointers. Both teams traded baskets throughout the quarter. Westlake managed to score 24 points in the quarter, while Calabasas put up 17. Going into halftime, the Coyotes had a one-point edge, with a score of 32-31.
The third quarter saw Westlake start strong, adding points early with consistent perimeter shooting, but Calabasas fought back over the course of the period. The Coyotes’ defense and Jaylene Hughes’ playmaking helped them regain momentum, outscoring Westlake in the quarter and taking a 51-47 lead heading into the fourth.
Calabasas came out aggressive in the final quarter, but Westlake scored 12 points to Calabasas’s 3, maintaining a slim edge late in the game. The Coyotes tied the game at 49-49 with six minutes remaining and briefly took the lead after a pair of key baskets. Hughes added crucial points down the stretch, and Calabasas went up 56-53 with just over a minute remaining after a clutch three-pointer energized the crowd.
Westlake remained composed, capitalizing on free-throw opportunities and converting key possessions in the final seconds.
“They made some really smart plays down the stretch and hit the shots they needed. It was a competitive game all the way through, and we had to stay focused until the very end,” said Federman.
Despite the loss, Calabasas showed resilience and determination throughout the game. The team battled hard on both ends of the court, never giving up even when Westlake pulled ahead. Key plays from Hughes and consistent defensive efforts from Federman kept the game close, and the Coyotes’ energy and teamwork were evident from start to finish.
“The season has definitely had its challenges, but it’s also had its highs. The team continues to work hard to improve, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity,” said Krikhelli.
