Friday night rewind in Ventura County

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There were several big basketball games in the 805 area code last night. And while some results were more surprising than others, most of the teams that were supposed to win did so. In an impressive manner, I might add. One underdog, however, pulled off a shocker. So, without further delay, let’s take a look at how things played out:

Pioneers pride on display: Simi Valley was impressive in a 72-67 victory over Thousand Oaks, an effort that should silence any critics who were thinking the Pioneers weren’t worthy of two things -- a No. 10 ranking in The Times’ top 25 poll and the distinction of being the favorite to win it all in the Marmonte League this season.

It takes two to make a thing go right: Anyone else remember that song from the late 80’s? It was one of my favorites. Anyways, James Staniland and James Ennis were unstoppable once again for Ventura. The senior tandem combined for 46 points, nearly outscoring Buena by themselves in a 59-47 victory over the Bulldogs in a Channel League game.

You won’t believe this one: Talk about two girls’ basketball teams on the opposite ends of the spectrum. Royal, my alma mata, entered its game against Newbury Park undefeated in Marmonte League play, alone atop the standings. The Panthers came in as losers of 12 of 16 games, but prevailed, 57-54, on the road, no less. Go figure.

-- Sean Ceglinsky