Panthers Show Grit and Growth Against Santa Ana

The Chaffey College men's basketball team hit the road for the first time this season on Wednesday, falling 102-81 to Santa Ana College in a fast-paced matchup that featured strong scoring runs, perimeter shooting from both sides, and a standout performance from Deisyn Payne. Despite a high-energy second half and several standout individual efforts, the Panthers were unable to overcome the Dons' early offensive surge.

Chaffey opened the game with confident perimeter touches and balanced guard play, but Santa Ana caught fire from beyond the arc, knocking down seven first-half threes to build a 54-30 halftime lead. Kameron Gardner, Semaj Morrison, and Christian Walton each connected early for the Panthers, while Logan Jereczek added timely perimeter scoring to keep the Panthers within striking range through the opening minutes. The Dons' efficiency at the three-point line created separation and forced the Panthers to chase the rest of the night.

Chaffey regrouped in the second half with improved ball movement and a more aggressive scoring approach, erupting for 51 points behind strong play from Payne, Colin Ingram, and Kajuan Thomas. Chaffey shot 52.9 percent from the field after halftime and found success attacking the paint and pushing the tempo, but Santa Ana continued to counter with timely perimeter makes and transition baskets to maintain control.

Payne delivered a high-impact performance off the bench, finishing with a team-high 15 points on 7-for-11 shooting while adding a three-pointer, a rebound, and an assist in 19 minutes. Thomas followed closely with 11 points, five rebounds, and two blocks, providing a strong interior presence throughout the night. Ingram added nine points and six rebounds on an efficient 4-for-6 shooting performance.

Walton recorded nine points and an assist, while Jereczek contributed eight points and two rebounds. Gardner and Morrison each added five points and four rebounds, with Gardner also contributing three assists and two steals. Avery Garcia facilitated the offense with eight assists, one of the highest totals of his Chaffey career, along with five rebounds and a steal.

As a team, the Panthers shot 44.9 percent from the field and 27.3 percent from three while generating 16 assists and six steals. Chaffey also produced 46 total rebounds, including 17 on the offensive end, and added 43 points from the bench, delivering a productive effort to start the season. The Dons' 102 points were powered by 16 three-pointers and 28 assists on 40 field goals.

The Panthers will now look to regroup as they continue their road stretch. Chaffey returns to action on Friday, Nov. 7, traveling to face Santiago Canyon College at 3 p.m.