If doubt had seeped in that the Valley Christian girls basketball team was no longer an overwhelming favorite to win a second straight 2A title, that doubt has vanished.

With the return to action of senior standout Stacey Jones from injury that kept her out all season until the past two weeks, the Trojans are flexing their muscles. Ashton Wolf has enjoyed a prolific season with Jones sidelined, scoring 20 points per game. Tana Kemmer, Logan Phillippe and Luann Bone have stepped up their games as well wither as returning starters or role players from last year.

With Jones back and averaging 15 points and eight rebounds a game in four contests, it's going to be awfully tough for any 2A foe to challenge the experienced Trojans.

This past Saturday night Scottsdale Christian, which took Valley Christian to overtime before losing last month when VC did not have Jones, was put away prior to the final period in the rematch with Jones. Valley Christian took a 19-point lead to the final period and won by 10.

As often is the case, Valley Christian now has more depth and experience from those who replaced Jones while she mended.That's the challenge that awaits the rest of the 2A girls playoff field over the next couple of weeks. VC gets a difficult, pre-tournament test on Tuesday when its hosts 4A-II power Flagstaff.