SAN DIEGO CLIPPERS FALL TO COACHELLA VALLEY LAKERS

PALM DESERT, CA - The San Diego Clippers fell to the Coachella Valley Lakers, 124-110, in the first of a two-game set Monday night at Acrisure Arena.

Nick Martinelli scored 20 of his 22 points in the second half, leading San Diego in scoring while adding four rebounds and shooting 10-of-19 from the field. Blake Wesley finished with 19 points, while Jahmyl Telfort recorded 20 points, three assists and two steals. Off the bench, Hunter Sallis added 16 points.

The Lakers seized control early, scoring 38 points in the first quarter and shooting better than 50 percent from both the field and three-point range. Their efficient offensive play continued into the second quarter, allowing them to build a lead as large as 21 points. Coachella Valley guard Chris Manon scored 24 of his 32 points in the first half.

Coachella Valley had five players score in double figures and outrebounded San Diego, 49-30. The Lakers also held advantages in second chance points, 26-19, and fast-break points, 24-8.

The Clippers cut the deficit to 13 points in the fourth quarter but struggled to build further momentum as turnovers and second-chance opportunities allowed the Lakers to maintain control. San Diego outscored Coachella Valley, 32-23, in the fourth quarter, but the Lakers' early lead proved too much to overcome.

San Diego will look to bounce back Tuesday night against the Coachella Valley Lakers at Acrisure Arena. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. PDT on ESPN+.