Folsom Lake Shows Growth Through Opening Stretch
The Folsom Lake College men's basketball team opened its 2025–26 campaign with three tightly contested games, showing steady growth, improved execution, and emerging leadership as the week unfolded. After narrow losses to Mendocino and Napa Valley, the Falcons broke through with a thrilling 63–60 road win over Gavilan to cap a promising first week of action.
Falcons Fall Just Short in Season Opener vs. Mendocino (Nov. 1)
The Falcons opened the season at home on Steve Ball Court in a back-and-forth battle that came down to the final minutes, ultimately falling 64–61 to Mendocino.
Sophomore Dylan Sayer led the way with 16 points and eight rebounds, anchoring both ends of the floor with consistent effort. Amir Sabir added 14 points and seven rebounds while knocking down four three-pointers, and Ahmad Lloyd contributed 13 points and five boards, hitting two key threes to keep the Falcons close.
Despite the loss, Folsom Lake's defense and rebounding stood out. The team held Mendocino to 31.7% shooting and outrebounded them 50–46. Freshman Moses Oginni also impressed in his debut, grabbing nine rebounds and showing a strong presence in the paint.
Head Coach Bill Benford noted the positives: "For a first game, our guys competed. We showed fight, but we need to clean up turnovers and finish possessions."
Folsom Lake Battles Hard but Falls at Napa Valley (Nov. 2)
The following night, the Falcons face a tough Napa Valley squad, once again staying competitive before falling 67–61.
Sayer continued his strong play with another 16-point performance, while Davell Brown added 10 points and six rebounds. Moses Oginni chipped in nine points, including two from beyond the arc, and Joziah Bell came off the bench to score eight with three steals.
The Falcons improved their three-point shooting (36%) and free-throw percentage compared to the opener, showing signs of offensive rhythm. However, turnovers (18) and second-chance points proved costly against a seasoned Storm team that controlled the glass late.
Despite the loss, the Falcons' ability to stay within striking distance on the road was a positive sign of growth and resilience early in the season.
Falcons Earn First Win of the Season at Gavilan (Nov. 6)
By their third game, the Falcons' persistence paid off. Folsom Lake captured its first victory of the season with a gritty 63–60 win over Gavilan on the road.
Sayer once again led the charge, scoring 19 points on efficient 7-for-14 shooting. Mikey Simonyan came alive off the bench, draining three triples on his way to 13 points, while Brown added 10 points and four rebounds.
Oginni dominated inside with 10 rebounds and three blocks, while the Falcons' defense held Gavilan to just 37% shooting from the field. The win was sealed with key defensive stops in the final minute and clutch free throws down the stretch.
"This game showed what we're capable of when we stay composed and trust each other," Coach Benford said. "We've been improving every day, and this was a big step forward."
A Promising Start
Through three games, the Falcons have demonstrated toughness, balance, and noticeable improvement with each outing. Sayer has emerged as an early offensive leader, while Oginni's rebounding and interior defense give Folsom Lake an edge inside.
With a mix of veteran leadership and fresh energy from newcomers, the Falcons appear to be finding their identity — one built on defense, rebounding, and resilience.