As the boy’s basketball season heats up in Santa Clarita, Foothill league teams are gearing up for an exciting week of competition. 

With league standings starting to take shape, every game counts as teams push toward playoff berths.

Key matchups include the top seed Valencia facing off against West Ranch, while Golden Valley looks to continue its winning streak against a determined Canyon.

Castaic is set to have two non-league games this week, and Hart and Saugus resume play Dec.19.

Valencia (4-6, 3-0) vs. West Ranch (3-2, 1-2):

The Valencia Vikings will look to maintain their unbeaten Foothill League record as they face the West Ranch Wildcats in a pivotal league matchup this week. Valencia sits atop the league standings after a dominant 87-36 victory over Castaic, where five players scored nine or more points in a well-rounded offensive display.

Dabe Princewill led the way for the Vikings with 16 points and six steals, setting the tone on both ends of the floor.

Cade Cheshier added 14 points, while Noah Trevino contributed 13 points and five assists. Isaac Franklin nearly posted a double-double with nine points and 10 rebounds, and Ali Eldein chipped in 10 points in the balanced team effort.

West Ranch, eager to rebound after a tough league start, will need to contain Valencia’s fast-paced offense and limit turnovers against an aggressive defense led by Princewill. A strong inside presence and efficient shooting will be crucial if the Wildcats hope to pull off the upset.

With Valencia eyeing its fourth consecutive league win and West Ranch hungry for a statement victory, expect an intense, hard-fought battle on the court Friday at 6:30 p.m.

Golden Valley (5-3, 2-0)  vs. Canyon (7-2, 2-0):

Two of the Foothill League’s top boys’ basketball teams will clash as the Golden Valley Grizzlies face cross-town rivals the Canyon Cowboys. Both squads remain unbeaten in league play, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown.

Golden Valley comes in hot after back-to-back league victories, including an impressive 76-63 win over Hart. 

Golden Valley’s Alex Villejo exploded for 27 points, five rebounds, and five steals, while Zach Christoffersen added 25 points, three rebounds, and four assists in the game against the Hawks.

Kenyen Andrews and Donovan Webb also made key contributions, combining for 17 points, 17 rebounds, and eight assists.

Canyon, boasting a strong overall record, has been equally dominant with a balanced attack and tough defense. Their ability to limit second-chance points and force turnovers could be the difference against Golden Valley’s high-powered offense.

The winner of this game has the potential to take first place in the Foothill League if West Ranch downs Valencia. The two squads are set to face off Friday at 6:30 p.m.

Castaic (5-5, 0-3) vs. Sun Valley Magnet (3-2):

The Castaic Coyotes are determined to snap their five-game losing streak as they face Sun Valley Magnet in a non-league matchup Thursday night. After a tough stretch in Foothill League play, including a recent loss to Valencia, the Coyotes are eager to regain momentum before returning to league action.

The Coyotes face a quick turnaround after Thursday’s game, hitting the court again Friday night at 6:30 p.m. against Grace. Back-to-back contests present a challenge but also a prime opportunity for Castaic to rediscover its rhythm and build confidence moving forward.

With two games in two nights, expect Castaic to come out focused and hungry to reverse its fortunes.

Both Hart and Saugus are taking some time off and are set to return to the court on Dec. 19 in their respective games.

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