Helix Wins a Laugher over El Centro Southwest in CIF Basketball Opener

Helix Charter High School was outscored 10-9 in the final period Wednesday night in the first round of the CIF San Diego section boys basketball playoffs. But who noticed? Kenny Keys scored 15 points and Brian Valadez 14 to lead No. 3 seed Helix over El Centro Southwest High 59-27 and advance to a 7 p.m. game Saturday. The Highlanders will host Hilltop High of Chula Vista, which beat Kearny 66-47. Keys grabbed 18 rebounds, followed by 14 for Valadez as the Scotties found many ways to stifle the Eagles defensively. Playing at home, the Highlanders outscored the Eagles 34-6 in the second and third periods to put the game away. Helix coach John Singer substituted freely, and 15 Scotties got playing time in the Division II game. Helix boosted its season record to 20-6. The Eagles finished their year 12-15.