Not many times do you get the chance West Orange High School's girls' basketball team had Thursday night.
The Mountaineers had a breather.
West Orange outscored Newark East Side 14-0 in the first quarter and went on to win 47-13 . The Mountaineers, who have qualified for the North Jersey, Section 1 Group IV playoffs, improved to 11-9.
Find out what's happening in West Orangefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
"Everybody played half a game," said West Orange coach Kim Wilson. "We played some younger players for varsity experience, and everybody got a shot. The younger kids got some experience. That's what it's all about. And exhibiting the best sportsmanship that we can."
Sophomore Chisom Amaefuna once again led the team with 13 points, 16 rebounds with a steal and assist. Junior guard Alyssa Almario scored 12 points on 4-of-4 shooting from three-point range.
Find out what's happening in West Orangefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
"I think it was important to get kids experience whether it's a top 20 team or not," said Wilson.
Junior Raven Keys got her first significant playing time at the varsity level. She scored four points, and pulled down five rebounds. She also had two assists and a steal.
"She works very, very hard," Wilson said.
Freshman center Taylor Rowland, who started the season on the freshmen team, then moved up to the junior varsity, made her varsity debut. She scored four points and had six rebounds.
"She's been making good strides and improvement," said Wilson.
Senior Bianca Garrett was productive as well. She had eight rebounds and a steal.
"Since its senior week we've been honoring our seniors," said Wilson.
The Mountaineers will play host to Bloomfield Friday night, then play next Wednesday at Pequannock. They play at Paramus Catholic a week from Saturday, then will open the sectional playoffs at Passaic County Tech Feb. 28.
The boys fell to 8-14, losing to West Milford 70-65. West Milford is 17-5.
Senior Duane Morgan scored 34 points, adding seven rebounds, three steals and a blocked shot. Junior Carlo DeChavez pitched in with 14 points, four assists, three rebounds and a steal and senior forward Matt Taylor scored eight points.
