La Quinta Girls Basketball Makes History with Record-Breaking Season
The 2025 winter season will go down as a defining chapter in the history of La Quinta High School's Girls Basketball program. Under the leadership of Head Coach Daryl Funai, the team accomplished what hadn’t been done in over three decades—capturing the best season since 1990. With a stellar 25-6 overall record, an undefeated league run, and a deep playoff push, the Lady Aztecs rewrote expectations and established themselves as one of the most formidable teams in Southern California’s high school basketball scene.
A Season to Remember
La Quinta’s 2025 campaign was nothing short of remarkable. Finishing with a 25-6 overall record and an unblemished 8-0 run through league play, the team secured the League Championship, showcasing dominance and consistency across all phases of the season.
The team’s success extended beyond local competition. They captured the championship title at the Fullerton Tournament, a competitive preseason event that helped set the tone for their dominant regular season. Additionally, La Quinta made waves at the San Diego Classic, finishing 5th in the Bronze Division against some of the best talent in the state.
In CIF postseason play, the Lady Aztecs advanced to the quarterfinals in the CIF State 4AA Division, a significant leap from their placement in Division 5AA the previous year. Their upward movement reflects not just a great season, but a program on the rise.
Key Contributors: The Stars Behind the Success
Coach Funai credited much of this historic season to a core group of players who delivered impact performances game after game. Leading the charge were Katelyn Vo, Katie Nguyen, Natalie Tran, and Kaitlyn Mai, all of whom played essential roles in both leadership and execution.
These players didn’t just fill stats—they shaped the culture of the team. Their playmaking, effort, and consistency helped propel the team to clutch wins throughout the year and gave younger players a model for success.
In particular, Kaitlyn Mai, who emerged as one of the season's breakout contributors, and Ivy Hoa both developed significantly as the season progressed, growing into larger responsibilities and becoming vital pieces in the team’s rotation.
Turning Points: Key Wins That Fueled Momentum
Several games stood out as critical turning points in La Quinta’s campaign. Victories over strong programs like Sierra Vista and Silvardo in the playoffs proved that the Lady Aztecs could rise to the occasion when the stakes were high. Most notably, two wins over Los Amigos during league play served as essential statements of the team’s dominance and determination.
These wins were more than just results—they were momentum builders. They created belief within the team and reminded fans that this year’s squad was something truly special.
Responding to Adversity: Composed Under Pressure
Every season comes with its challenges, and La Quinta faced their fair share—whether through the physical toll of a long campaign or the mental demands of a high-pressure playoff run. According to Coach Funai, the team responded "very well" to the pressures of injuries, tight games, and adversity.
That resiliency was evident in their playoff journey. Even when facing elite competition, the Lady Aztecs held their composure and played with discipline and heart—traits that reflect both strong coaching and senior leadership.
The Heart of the Team: A Senior Class to Remember
This year’s success story was driven in large part by a special senior class—13 players strong—who brought a wealth of experience, energy, and leadership to the team. Their bond, forged over multiple seasons, served as the foundation for the team’s on-court chemistry and off-court unity.
With such a large and impactful senior group, the 2025 season also marked the culmination of a significant era in La Quinta basketball. These seniors didn’t just win—they laid the groundwork for a lasting culture of excellence and dedication.
Looking Ahead: A Fresh Start with a Lone Returner
While the 2025 season was historic, the team now faces a period of rebuilding. With only one player returning for next season, Coach Funai will be tasked with nurturing a new generation of players, many of whom will be seeing varsity action for the first time.
“It’s all about gaining experience for the future,” Funai said, recognizing that the upcoming offseason and 2026 campaign will be focused on development, growth, and re-establishing rhythm with an almost entirely new roster.
Building for the Future: Offseason Priorities
With so much turnover expected, Coach Funai’s focus for the offseason is clear: preparing the next wave of Lady Aztecs. That means introducing younger players to the pace and physicality of varsity-level competition while reinforcing the team-first mentality that carried the program this far.
Strength and skill development, team cohesion, and leadership training will be critical themes during the offseason as La Quinta works to carry forward the momentum of 2025 into a new chapter.
Stat Tracking and Team Updates
For those looking to stay connected with La Quinta girls basketball, team and individual statistics can be found on MaxPreps, which serves as the official hub for scores, player stats, and game recaps. Fans are encouraged to follow the team’s progress as Coach Funai and his staff begin laying the foundation for what they hope will be another competitive campaign.
A Legacy Cemented
There’s no question that the 2025 season was one for the record books at La Quinta High School. With the program’s best record in over three decades, a league title, tournament championships, and a deep state playoff run, this group of Lady Aztecs didn’t just win games—they redefined what was possible.
Led by a large and experienced senior core, fueled by rising stars, and coached with purpose and passion, this team has set a new standard for future generations.
As La Quinta heads into the next chapter, the 2025 team will be remembered not only for its accomplishments, but for its grit, unity, and legacy—a blueprint of success that the entire school community can be proud of.
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