Three games in four days kept the youngest Cougar basketball boys busy this week, kicking off the trio of Trans-Valley League contests on Tuesday at Ripon Christian.

The frosh Cougars were involved a close game, down just 31-26 at halftime. Host RC outscored Escalon to build up a lead, but Escalon never gave up. The boys scored 10 points in just over a minute during the fourth quarter, but eventually lost 62-54 in the Feb. 9 game.

Thursday, the young Cougars were home against Hilmar and started the game with strong defense. The defense held Hilmar to 16 first half points and the Cougars led 39-16. The second half Cougar defense was more of the same and the offense came alive. Anthony LaRossa had 11 points. Austin Faria and Isaias Martinez assisted on both sides of the ball.

On Friday, Feb. 12, the Cougars were on the road again and headed for Hughson. The first quarter was difficult for the freshmen, as they were down 13-1. The game was physical and the Cougars continued with their never-give-up style of play, trailing 19-11 at halftime. The second half saw a different Cougar team on the court. At the end of the third quarter, the Cougars led 28-26. They never lost the lead again and won the game 45-39. The Cougars swept the league series against Hughson, 2-0.

The freshmen are currently 18-7 overall and were slated to finish the season on the road against Mountain House on Tuesday, Feb. 16.