GALT, CA (MPG) - The Galt High girls’ basketball team showed plenty of heart Monday night in their preseason opener, battling back from a large early deficit to pull within one point in the fourth quarter before falling to Franklin of Stockton, 40-32.

For new Head Coach Jason Gaither, the loss was less important than what his team showed in adversity.

“Typically, you’d be disappointed with a loss, but to get down big like that and battle all the way back to one point in the preseason, it’s fantastic,” Gaither said. “It’s the kind of thing you want through the season, to be challenged and build off of it.”

The Warriors dug themselves an early hole against the visiting Wildcats but refused to quit, mounting a furious comeback that nearly resulted in a comeback victory.

Galt’s defensive effort was a bright spot throughout the night, as the Warriors effectively neutralized Franklin’s top scorer and made the Wildcats work for every basket.

 

Paola Corral shoots from the side. 

The defensive intensity fueled the comeback attempt, with Galt forcing turnovers and creating transition opportunities as it clawed its way back into the game.

Senior Nella Feilbach paced the Warriors with 14 points in the losing effort, showing the offensive leadership Galt will need as the season progresses.

Sophomore Alex Gonzales Landa added 7 points, while sophomore Allie Garcia chipped in 3 points.

Four Warriors contributed 2 points each: sophomore Skyler Moore, senior Emmy Pena, junior Paola Corral and junior Morgan Jones.

For Gaither, the game provided valuable insights into his team’s character and potential.

“This is my first season with these girls,” Gaither said, and the comeback showed him the kind of resilience he’ll be able to build on as the season progresses.

 

Alex Gonzales Landa reaches around to shoot.

The preseason loss revealed both areas to work on – avoiding slow starts will be crucial – and reasons for optimism, particularly the team’s defensive intensity and refusal to give up when facing a significant deficit.

With a mix of experienced seniors and promising sophomores, the Warriors have the pieces to compete as they continue to learn Gaither’s system and build chemistry.

Galt will look to even its preseason record when it takes the court for its next game against Encina on Nov. 27.