Alicia Komaki Named Girls’ Basketball Coach of the Year at Sierra Canyon
Sierra Canyon Triumphs in Southern Section Open Division Title Game
In a decisive Southern Section Open Division championship game, Sierra Canyon’s coach Alicia Komaki demonstrated remarkable energy and determination, leading her team to victory against top-seeded Ontario Christian. The dramatic matchup unfolded at Toyota Arena, culminating in a 69-62 win for the Trailblazers.
“I’ve never been more happy with a group of people,” Komaki remarked, echoing the fulfillment of a long-anticipated moment for her team.
Throughout the season, Sierra Canyon had steadily prepared for this critical showdown, facing formidable opponents like Ontario Christian and Etiwanda, who had previously thwarted their championship hopes. This time, Komaki ensured her team would not be denied.
Key to the victory was All-American Jerzy Robinson, who fought fiercely against fellow All-American Kaleena Smith, adding intensity to the game. In another significant achievement, Sierra Canyon also eliminated Etiwanda with a score of 66-62 earlier in the playoffs.
For guiding her team to this championship in one of the nation’s most competitive girls’ basketball divisions, Komaki has been honored as The Times’ Coach of the Year. Notably, her strategic decision to position the 6-foot-1 Robinson against the 5-6 Smith proved instrumental in the outcome of the game.
