The Phoenix boys' basketball team has figured out how to win close games.

The Pirates continued their memorable season, edging rival Hidden Valley 51-48 on February 13. The victory improved PHS to 5-2 in the Skyline Conference, ensuring at least a second-place finish for Coach Troy McNichols' team.

Phoenix (16-5 overall) can earn a share of the conference title with a win at Henley on Tuesday to close the regular season.

Unlike earlier in the season when it had to rally past Hidden Valley, Phoenix led from the outset, building a 29-21 halftime advantage. The visiting Mustangs briefly took the lead in the second half only to have host Phoenix close out the win.

Senior Robin Trenbeath scored 10 of his 12 points in the second half while Diego Hernandez added five of his nine points in the game in the final quarter. Brayden Decker added nine points, Dylan Harper eight and Amaru Williams seven for the Pirates, who won for the 12th time in their past 14 games.

HIDDEN VALLEY (48): Isley 13, Norris 0, Brierty 5, Stone 4, Iwamizu 22, Noga 2, Mendez 2. Totals: 18 6-6 48.

PHOENIX (51): Trenbeath 12, Ponce 3, Decker 9, Dobbins 0, Williams 7, Hernandez 9, Garcia 3, Harper 8. Totals: 16 2-5 51.

Hidden Valley 9 12 16 11 — 48

Phoenix 17 12 9 13 — 51

3-point goals — Hidden Valley 6 (Isley 3, Brierty 1, Iwamizu 2), Phoenix 5 (Ponce 1, Decker 2, Williams 1, Garcia 1).