COMPTON, Calif. (Interstat) — In a tightly contested men’s junior college basketball game Friday, the Compton Tartars edged the visiting Los Angeles Valley Monarchs 63-60.

The game, played on Dec. 5, 2025, was decided in the final seconds after a frantic sequence of turnovers and clutch free throws. Compton improved to 5-7 overall, while Los Angeles Valley fell to 2-4.

The Monarchs built an early lead behind a sharp-shooting first quarter, connecting on four three-pointers. Derek Peterson was instrumental, scoring 11 of his game-high 28 points in the opening period. However, the Tartars stayed close through efficient interior scoring, trailing just 31-30 after one quarter.

Compton’s defensive pressure began to tell in the second quarter. The Tartars, who finished with 12 steals, forced Los Angeles Valley into 21 total turnovers, converting many into transition opportunities. Israel Nansha led the Compton attack, scoring 19 points, most on mid-range jumpers and finishes at the rim.

Despite offensive struggles, Los Angeles Valley stayed within striking distance due largely to Peterson’s scoring and a significant advantage from the three-point line. The Monarchs hit 8 of 17 from deep, while Compton managed just 2 of 9.

The most critical stretch of the game occurred in the final minute. With Compton leading 59-57, Los Angeles Valley committed a turnover with 30 seconds remaining. Compton’s Keyshawn Ross Jr. promptly converted a layup on the other end to push the lead to four. After a Los Angeles Valley timeout, another Monarchs turnover gave the ball back to Compton with 14 seconds left.

The Tartars’ Jesse Graves III was fouled and made two free throws with 3 seconds remaining to seal the victory. A last-second heave by Los Angeles Valley was off target.

Beyond Peterson’s 28 points for the Monarchs, Deng Lual added 7 points, 8 rebounds and 3 blocks. For Compton, Deuce Roberts filled the stat sheet with 13 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists, while Elijah Evans contributed 11 points and 4 assists.

Compton won despite shooting just 37.8% from the floor, compared to Los Angeles Valley’s 44.4%. The Tartars offset that with advantages in assists (12-6), steals (12-6) and second-chance points, aided by 7 offensive rebounds.

Both teams continue their schedules Saturday, with Compton traveling to face West Los Angeles and Los Angeles Valley returning home to host Rio Hondo.