Perimeter defense proved costly for the Del Norte girls basketball team on Thursday, as the Warriors lost a second straight game.

Del Norte opened the Harlan Carter tournament in Redding against University Prep late in the day and lost 59-40.

With the loss, the Warriors are now 3-3 on the season.

“We need to improve our perimeter defense,” said Del Norte head coach Dylan Nelson, whose team gave up 10 3-pointers. “Missed assignments killed us.”

Freshman Jaylee Keleing was a bright spot once again for Del Norte as she continues to impress in her debut season at the varsity level.

Keeling scored a team-high 14 points, while senior Tsinte Steinruick added 11 points and senior Makana Baugh chipped in seven points.

“We dug ourselves a hole and couldn’t climb out,” the coach said. “Missed a lot of shots in the paint and had some turnovers.”

Some tough competition early in the season, however should benefit Del Norte down the road.

Their two straight losses, which also included a defeat to defending Oregon state champion Henley last weekend, have come against a pair of top-notch teams who are a combined 9-0 on the season.

“We’re playing good teams and learning a lot,” Nelson added. “We need good energy more consistently. It’s a process and we need to continue to grow.”

The head coach believes his squad is capable of playing at a more competitive level.

“We have some good pieces,” he said. “But have yet to be able to put them together for a full game.”

The Warriors will try to bounce back when they play Enterprise in tournament action on Friday at 5:30 p.m.