GALT, CA (MPG) - After nearly three weeks away from their home court, the Liberty Ranch Hawks made their return count, rallying from a halftime deficit to defeat the Union Mine Diamondbacks 57-45 in their league opener Monday night.

The Hawks (1-0 league) hadn’t played at home since Dec. 20, spending the final weeks of their preseason schedule on the road since beginning their campaign Nov. 21. But the friendly confines of its home gym proved to be just what Liberty Ranch needed to shake off the rust and claim a crucial victory over a formidable opponent.

Liberty Ranch burst out of the gates with intensity, building a 10-point advantage in the opening quarter. However, Union Mine showed why it’s considered one of the tougher teams in the league, clawing its way back into the contest and taking a lead into the halftime break.

 

Daniel Wilks dribbles and looks to pass.

“We were down at the half, so the plan was keeping our composure, sharing the ball, not being heroes, running offense, playing defense: just really basic basketball,” said Liberty Ranch Head Coach Phillip Ricci. “I really got on them at halftime about sharing the ball, just running our stuff.”

The message resonated. The Hawks hung tough through the third quarter before finally breaking through in the fourth, reclaiming the lead and pulling away for the 12-point victory.

Junior Ryan Ogas led the charge with a game-high 23 points, including three three-pointers, as he rediscovered his offensive rhythm at the perfect time.

 

Junior Ryan Ogas shoots for three.

“I think I’m back in my groove now. I turned it on and just went for it,” Ogas said. “I just really wanted to attack the basket tonight and get back in my groove. I really wanted this win against Union Mine.”

The balanced Hawks attack featured contributions throughout the lineup. Senior Daniel Wilks added 11 points, while senior Derek Nelson chipped in nine. Junior Arjun Nigam and sophomore Conrad Dixon each contributed four points, with seniors Charles Mejia and Everett Dixon and freshman Isaac Gonzalez adding two points apiece.

Coach Ricci was quick to credit the opposition while celebrating his team’s resilience.

“My hat’s off to that Union Mine team. They are a really well-coached team, and they’re really tough. They’re really hard to beat,” Ricci said. “If you get a win against them in league, it’s a big deal.”

 

Charles Mejia dribbles and turns toward the basket.

For Ogas and his teammates, the victory represents more than just a strong start to league play: It’s a statement of intent.

“I just want to thank our coaches. They have really been working hard to get us back to our business,” Ogas said. “I am so excited. That was a big win for our opening game. We plan to play that tough through the rest of the league and hopefully come out on top.”

With their first league victory secured, the Hawks will look to build momentum as they continue their quest for a league championship.