A traditionally-tough basketball program still looks pretty tough.

Despite heavy graduation losses and the departure of a long-time coach, the visiting Vikings were too much for Phoenix in a 51-35 final on January 13 at Phoenix.

Mazama opened an 11-6 lead after one quarter and slowly pulled away in the Skyline Conference opener for both teams. A 13-4 run in the third quarter fueled by Chelsea Gilmore helped the visitors take charge as the senior post scored 12 of her 14 points in the second half.

Only three Pirates managed to get into the scoring column. Anabell Delgado scored a game-high 19 points while Morgan James finished with 13. James added eight rebounds, four assists, three blocks and four steals. Kynna Nolan chipped in three points for Phoenix (8-7 overall).

Mazama (5-8 overall) got 14 points from Gilmore and Ella Baley. The Vikings shot 46 percent from the field (19 for 41) while Phoenix hit 11 of 35 shots (30 percent) in the game. 

The Pirates return to action Friday when they visit Klamath Union.

Mazama (51): Utley 2, McGirr 5, Baley 14, Holbrook 3, Lee 1, Heaton 7, Gilmore 14. 19 field goals, 10-13 free throws. 3-Point: McGirr, Gilmore, Heaton. 15 fouls.

Phoenix (35): James 13, Nolan 3, Delgado 19, Woodward 0, Mohamud 0, Rector 0. 11 field goals, 7-7 free throws. 3-Point: Delgado (5), Nolan. 13 fouls.

M - 11 15 13 12 - 51

P - 6 14 4 11 - 35