Boys Basketball 2025-2026

Panthers Tested by Division I Power Clayton Valley

Saturday, December 6, 2025 - Saint Mary’s faced one of its toughest early-season challenges in a non-league matchup against the Clayton Valley Eagles, a Division I program that reached the NCS Championship last season. The Eagles’ disciplined attack and defensive pressure gave the Panthers problems from the opening tip.

Clayton Valley forced Saint Mary’s into constant scrambling on defense, making them defend deep into the shot clock on nearly every possession. Second-chance opportunities and turnovers turned into repeated scoring chances for the Eagles, who capitalized with timely three-pointers and transition points.

Offensively, the Panthers struggled to establish their rhythm. Clayton Valley neutralized Saint Mary’s interior attack, disrupting high–low actions and limiting touches in the paint. Without their usual post presence, scoring opportunities became difficult to find.

Saint Mary’s was held to a season-low 27 points. Junior Donovan Mikel was the only Panther in double figures with 10 points. Malakai Kelly finished with 9, and CJ Baltrip added 6.

The Panthers now turn their attention to tournament play as they travel to compete in the Gridley Invitational, opening against Dublin High School. Tip-off is scheduled for 4:00 PM at Gridley High School.

Panthers Finish Christian Brothers Classic with Strong Win Over St. Joseph-Notre Dame

Saturday, November 29, 2025 - Saint Mary’s capped off its final game of the Christian Brothers Classic with a convincing performance, defeating the Pilots of St. Joseph-Notre Dame. The game opened with the Pilots jumping out to a quick 5–0 lead, but once the Panthers adjusted to the size mismatch inside, momentum quickly shifted. Saint Mary’s attacked the post, dominated second-chance opportunities, and seized control of the opening quarter.

Freshman Ellijah McDaniels provided a major spark from the perimeter, knocking down two key three-pointers to keep the Pilots from packing the paint. Junior Miles Woods contributed early around the rim with two putbacks, while senior CJ Baltrip paced all scorers in the first quarter with seven points. The Panthers closed the opening period with a strong 24–12 lead.

Both teams found rhythm in the second quarter, with the Pilots scoring 16 and Saint Mary’s adding 14 to carry a 40–26 lead into halftime. However, the Panthers came out flat in the third, allowing St. Joseph-Notre Dame to cut the lead to six. A late-quarter surge helped Saint Mary’s regain control and maintain separation heading into the fourth.

The Panthers played composed basketball in the final period, maintaining a comfortable 20-point margin for most of the quarter and finishing the Classic on a high note. Three players scored in double figures, including standout performances from juniors Miles Woods and Malakai Kelly, who each contributed 15 points. Senior CJ Baltrip led all scorers with an impressive 21.

Next up, Saint Mary’s travels to San Leandro High School to take on Clayton Valley in the NorCal Ultimate Challenge. Tip-off is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 6.

Panthers Open Season With Strong Home Victory Over Ygnacio Valley

Tuesday, November 25, 2025 - The Saint Mary’s boys basketball team kicked off their home opener in impressive fashion, defeating the Wolves of Ygnacio Valley High School, 72–54. Although the Panthers got off to a slow start, their defensive pressure quickly shifted the momentum. Turnovers created by relentless on-ball pressure allowed Saint Mary’s to control the tempo and gradually pull away, sealing the win with a dominant fourth quarter.

Saint Mary’s showcased balanced scoring throughout the night, with four Panthers finishing in double digits. Junior Malakai Kelly and senior CJ Baltrib led the way with 13 points apiece. Junior Miles Woods and freshman standout Marcellus Collins each added 10 points, providing a steady offensive presence.

The Panthers’ depth also played a key role, with sophomore Monty Yonas contributing 9 points and junior Donovan Mikel adding 8 in the victory.

With the season now officially underway, the Panthers turn their attention to their next challenge. Saint Mary’s will face Saint Joseph–Notre Dame this Saturday at De La Salle as part of the Christian Brother Classic.