Keppel Falls to Leuzinger 53-46 in CIF D3 Quarterfinals

The Keppel girls basketball team faced a tough defeat against Leuzinger in the CIF Southern Section Division 3 quarterfinals on February 19, 2026. Despite a valiant comeback attempt, the Aztecs lost 53-46, concluding their season with a record of 17-14. Coach Kenny Phan expressed disappointment but optimism for the future, highlighting that his entire squad will return next year.

Leuzinger, which improved to 20-13 with the win, will advance to the semifinals against St. Margaret’s. In a game that started poorly for the Aztecs, they found themselves in a 17-0 deficit before managing to score their first points with just one minute remaining in the opening quarter. Coach Phan noted that his team faced a more physical opponent, commenting, “We met a team that is a little tougher than us, more physical than us.”

Keppel’s Struggle and Resilience

Keppel’s challenging start was compounded by their size disadvantage against Leuzinger, which disrupted their offensive flow and passing lanes. Despite the initial struggles, the Aztecs gradually found their rhythm, utilizing speed and fundamentals to cut the lead to single digits by halftime. Addison Trinh led Keppel with a team-high 16 points, showcasing the team’s potential even in defeat.

As the second half unfolded, Keppel adjusted its strategy, improving both defensively and offensively. Coach Bo Corona of Leuzinger recognized the threat posed by Keppel, stating, “I told them at halftime, (Keppel) is too good. They’re gonna start making some of those shots, you’re gonna have to wave the storm. The storm is coming.” His prediction proved accurate as Keppel made significant strides, closing the gap to just three points late in the game.

Aubry’s Last-Minute Heroics

Despite their best efforts, Keppel could not complete the comeback. With less than a minute remaining, they had two critical possessions that could have tied the game, but they were unable to capitalize. Leuzinger’s Tatyana Aubry sealed the victory with a crucial three-pointer with just 12 seconds left on the clock, finishing with a game-high 22 points. The final score reflected the hard-fought nature of the contest, with Leuzinger prevailing 53-46.

Looking ahead, Coach Phan remains optimistic about next season, emphasizing the importance of offseason training. “The great thing is we have zero seniors. So they know exactly what they need to do in the offseason to come back stronger,” he stated. The Aztecs will aim to build on this season’s experiences as they strive for their second CIF championship, having previously won in 2025.

This game marked a significant moment for both teams, showcasing the intensity and competitiveness of high school basketball in California. As Leuzinger prepares for the next round, Keppel is left to reflect on a season filled with promise and potential for growth.