The Santa Margarita Eagles are proving they're more than just another high school basketball team, delivering a stunning 65-49 victory over defending state Open Division champion Eastvale Roosevelt in a powerful pre-league performance.

With an impressive 18-2 record, the Eagles are strategically preparing for their critical Trinity League opener against St. John Bosco next week, demonstrating remarkable skill and determination.

In Friday night's game at JSerra, Santa Margarita's early dominance was unmistakable, establishing a commanding 16-2 lead in the first quarter that set the tone for their decisive win. Star player Drew Anderson led the charge with a remarkable double-double, scoring 19 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.

Supporting Anderson's stellar performance, teammates Kaiden Bailey and Brayden Kyman contributed 14 and 13 points respectively, showcasing the team's deep offensive capabilities. Though the Eagles nearly surrendered their substantial lead in the second half, their resilience and teamwork ultimately secured the victory.

The upcoming Jan. 9 showdown against St. John Bosco represents a critical moment in the Eagles' season, with one final tune-up against Fairfax at St. Francis scheduled before the high-stakes league match. Santa Margarita's consistent performance and strategic preparation suggest they're ready to make a significant impact in the competitive Trinity League.

Beyond their own impressive performance, the game highlighted the extraordinary talent across Southern California's high school basketball scene, with notable performances from teams like St. Francis, Mater Dei, and Rainier Beach demonstrating the depth of local basketball talent.