Los Alamitos Holds Off Corona del Mar in Intense 73-69 Sunset League Battle (2025)

Newport Beach – Corona del Mar Gym

Los Alamitos’ boys basketball team was victorious in a highly contested Sunset League game Wednesday, defeating Corona del Mar 73-69 in front of an enthusiastic crowd at Corona del Mar High. Senior guard Liam Gray led the way for the Griffins with a game-high 26 points, including four 3-pointers, three of which came during a pivotal third quarter.

The Griffins, ranked No. 3 in Orange County, improved to 4-0 in league play and 11-6 overall, taking sole possession of first place. Corona del Mar, ranked No. 10, fell to 3-1 in league and 17-3 overall. Maxwell Scott, the Sea Kings’ standout sophomore guard, scored 21 points, while junior Oliver Nakara added 18 points with four 3-pointers, three coming in the first quarter. Senior forward Jackson Harlan recorded a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds.

The game was marked by fast-paced action and frequent lead changes. Corona del Mar opened strong, jumping to an 18-8 lead. However, Los Alamitos quickly responded, with senior guard Samori Guyness nailing a buzzer-beating 3-pointer to give the Griffins a 24-22 lead after the first quarter. The Sea Kings regained a narrow 37-36 advantage at halftime, but the third quarter saw Gray step up for Los Alamitos, scoring 11 points and sinking a 3-pointer at the buzzer to put the Griffins ahead 57-53 entering the fourth.

In the final period, Los Alamitos extended its lead to 10 points behind key 3-pointers from Gray and Jordan Taylor. Corona del Mar created a late rally, with Scott’s 3-pointer cutting the deficit to four with 1:24 left. However, the Griffins held on to secure the win.

“It was a very good team win,” Gray said. “An electric atmosphere. It’s great to get a ‘W’ in league.”

Los Alamitos coach Nathan Berger praised the team’s depth and resilience, saying, “We play a pretty frenetic style. A 10-point deficit feels more like four or five to us. It’s more just sticking to the game plan.”

Despite the loss, Corona del Mar remains competitive, with their three defeats this season decided by a combined seven points.