The Pirates' women's basketball team earned their first victory of the young season with a 68-45 decision over Taft at the Wild West Shootout at West Los Angeles College in Culver City. Alexa Coubal posted a double-double of 20 points and 13 rebounds and Alanna Topete scored 17 points and handed out three assists. Sam McKenzie and Devin Feiereisen netted 15 and 12 points, respectively, for VC (1-1).
McKenzie got the Pirates off to a quick start, cashing in Charnelle Nichols' assist for three on the opening possession. Coubal scored a lay-up midway through the quarter for a 10-9 VC lead, and her inside score with 4:35 on the clock started an 11-3 run for Ventura. Coubal sank two free throws and Topete scored a lay-up twice, the second as part of a 3-point play. Aiyana Gonzalez scored inside with 1:33 left in the quarter to put the Pirates ahead 21-14. VC led the Cougars 23-18 after one quarter of play.
Ventura began the second quarter on a 9-0 run. Coubal hit a jumper, then connected on a pair of free throws. Topete made three of four charity shots and McKenzie also hit a free shot. Coubal's free throw with 3:52 on the clock gave the Pirates a 32-18 margin. Taft responded with a quick 10- run that ended with a Coubal jump shot with 1:33 remaining. VC led 37-30 at halftime.
VC outscored the Cougars 18-4 in the third quarter to take full control of the contest. Feiereisen and Topete took turns scoring for the Pirates early in the quarter, and McKenzie joined in the fun wit a pair of scores, as well. Feiereisen made a lay-up with 53 seconds left in the period to expand the lead to 53-33.
The Pirates were never threatened down the stretch in the 68-45 win.
VC returns to Culver City on Sunday Nov. 10, taking on host West Los Angeles at 5:00 pm.