Warrior basketball team enters league play after tough non-league schedule

The Fallbrook High boys basketball team opened Valley League play at Escondido Jan. 17 after a demanding non-league schedule left the Warriors with a 5-12 record. Despite the mark, first-year coach Ryan Smith said he felt good about his club entering league competition.

"We've had a tough non-league (schedule) and we competed at a high level with a young team without a lot of experience," said Smith. "I have a feeling we can compete in league and have a chance – if we can play hard, which we've been doing – to compete for a championship. It will be tough but I think we have a chance. I always...