Venture Academy Falls to San Lorenzo in CIF State Opener

Mustangs' season ends after loss in state tournament game

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The Venture Academy basketball team's season came to an end with a loss to San Lorenzo in the opening round of the CIF State tournament. Just five days earlier, the Mustangs had played on the Sacramento Kings' home court at Golden 1 Center, falling to Natomas in the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Division IV championship game.

Why it matters

The Venture Academy Mustangs had a successful season, making it to the state tournament after winning their section championship. While their season ultimately ended in defeat, the team's accomplishments and the experience of playing on an NBA court are a source of pride for the school and community.

The details

Venture Academy's loss to San Lorenzo marked the end of their season after a deep playoff run. The Mustangs had advanced to the state tournament by winning the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Division IV title, but were unable to continue their postseason success against San Lorenzo.

  • The Mustangs fell to Natomas in the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Division IV championship game on February 27, 2026.
  • Venture Academy's season-ending loss to San Lorenzo occurred on March 4, 2026.

The players

Venture Academy

A high school basketball team that advanced to the CIF State tournament after winning their section championship.

San Lorenzo

The team that defeated Venture Academy in the opening round of the CIF State tournament, ending the Mustangs' season.

Natomas

The team that defeated Venture Academy in the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Division IV championship game, just five days before their state tournament loss.

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The takeaway

While the Venture Academy Mustangs' season ultimately ended in defeat, the team's accomplishments and the experience of playing on an NBA court are a source of pride for the school and community. The team's successful playoff run, including a section championship, demonstrates their hard work and talent, even if they were unable to advance further in the state tournament.