Continuing in our series on community college teams: San Joaquin Delta College. Coach Rich Ressa as well as his assistants and players have performed especially well this season. Ressa’s squad lacks height as do most California community colleges programs but has obviously performed well with a frontline of 6-foot-7, 250 middle man in Cameron Pieters plus 6-foot-6, 195 Spencer Montiero.

Where do the Rams currently stand?

The 22-5 Mustangs, 14-1 in league, are winners of the Big 8 Conference and sport a 14-game winning streak. In November, came a 20-point loss to Gavilan during the Ohlone tournament in addition to a four-point victory at home versus Yuba College. December brought a 112-55 loss to host City College of San Francisco followed 14 days later by a 13 point loss to the same Rams in Stockton and a six point defeat at conference rival Santa Rosa Junior College. Matchups in both January and February all resulted in wins including a four-point return game success at home against Santa Rosa.

Other numbers: 77.6 points per game on 47% overall shooting, 34% accuracy from long distance and 68% at the foul line. Plus, 33.9 rebounds and 14.1 assists. San Joaquin boasts a 3.5 rebounding margin over opponents and are allowing 71.6 points on 44% and 36% accuracy.

The primary contributors:

Four Delta-ites are averaging in double figures:

• Frontcourter Spencer Montiero is scoring 17.6 points and grabbing 10.5 rebounds per game while shooting 57%, 60% and 69%.
• Big Cameron Pieters is at 15.4 points plus 8.5 rebounds and shooting 56%, 43% and 79%.
• Point Jalen Valverde is bringing 10.7 points but more importantly 7.1 assists and shooting 47%, 37% and 72%. He’s also grabbing 5.0 rebounds even though standing 5-foot-9. Valverde initially signed with Fresno City College coming out of Elliot Christian High but moved on to Cosumnes River College as a freshman.
• Shooting guard Jimmy Beltz is averaging 10.3 points on 37%, 32% and 60% shooting. After Elliot Christian High, he spent a year at CGM Prep Academy in Phoenix before returning to Stockton.

Surface analysis:

The Mustangs win close games—11 in fact by seven points or less thus far this season. SJDC as a squad understands its collective strengths and limitations and plays accordingly. They typically don’t bludgeon opponents although a 22-point home court victory versus Butte College and an 87-55 win at American River College are quality successes which fall into this category. From a team rebounding margin of plus 3.5 and a plus three percentage points in overall shooting—as well as being two percentage points underwater on three-pointers—emerges a six point overall scoring differential in favor of the Mustangs. The squad’s overall statistical performance leaves little room for error yet has accounted for an outstanding 22 victories thus far. They don’t beat themselves.

The San Joaquin Delta College roster:

• Tre’von Collins G 5’11” 155 So Freedom, Oakley, CA
• Jalen Valverde G 5’”9 175 So Elliot Christian, Stockton, CA
• Austin Dongon G 5’8” 160 So Tokay, Lodi, CA
• Daniel Olejenik G 6’0” 200 Fr Liberty, Brentwood, CA
• Dondre Gray G 6’3” 165 So Freedom, Oakley, CA
• Jimmy Beltz G 6’2” 170 Fr Elliot Christian, Stockton, CA
• Hayden Ordone G 6’0 160 So West , Tracy, ca
• Travis August F 6’1 185 Fr Liberty, Brentwood, CA
• Devin Pierce F 6’0” 180 So Freedom, Oakley, CA
• Nikolas Levitt G 6’0” 175 Fr Lincoln, Stockton, CA
• Jakobi Ford F 6’5” 185 So Heritage, Brentwood CA
• Spencer Montiero F 6’6” 195 So Lodi, Lodi, CA
• Cameron Pieters F 6’7” 250 So Stockton Christian, CA
• Logan Nabors G 6’2” 168 Fr Riverbank, Riverbank, CA

“RAMS ON TOP OF WEEK 15 NORTHERN CALIFORNIA RANKINGS
Signal The Light Basketball Week 15″

“ANT NAVARRETE GARNERS CCAA WEEKLY ACCLAIM”

“Helping the first-place Cal State East Bay Pioneers to their first 20-win season in nearly two decades, junior Ant Navarrete has been named CCAA Player of the Week for Feb. 11-17…”

He is out of San Lorenzo High and Cañada College.

Cal-Hi Sports Northern California Boys Basketball Player of the Week
Ben Knight (Mission, San Francisco) Sr.

Tony Nunez from Saturday: “Christian Quintero poured in a career-high 46 points on Saturday to lead No. 10 Pajaro Valley over No. 7 Mills, 75-67, and into the quarterfinal round of the Central Coast Section playoffs for the first time in program history…”

Quintero is a 6-foot-1 2020 prospect.

From Friday: “They are almost finally healthy. MC boys hoops roll over Capital Christian” Julian A. Lopez

From last week: “San Marin eliminates Drake in first round of NCS D-III playoffs” Danny Schmidt

But the San Marin-ers earned the right to face Salesian and it wasn’t pretty.

Danny Schmidt: “No. 9 San Marin fell 84-43 to top-seeded Salesian, the nation’s third-ranked team, in the NCS D-III quarterfinals. Sophomore Tyson Geraci scored 35 points (!) for the Mustangs, though.”

From Saturday: Puget Sound defeated Whitworth College 96-72 behind Jimmy (Serra High) Wohrer’s 29 points, 10 rebounds and four assists. He shot 7-12, 4-6 and 11-12 respectively. For WC, Kyle (Marin Academy) Roach scored 24 points.

Also on Saturday, Darne (St. Joseph Notre Dame) Duckett tallied 21 points (7-11, 3-4, 4-5 shooting) and Joey (Acalanes High) Hewitt finished with 17 as Whitman College pummeled Pacific Lutheran 96-78.

TUESDAY

In a battle of water supremacy, host Cosumnes River College paddled American River College 90-85. For the victors, Khari (Kennedy High) Hutt led with 23 points, Drew (Cosumnes Oaks High) Buggs tallied 19 on 9-10 shooting and Paul (Elk Grove High) Ohiri scored 17. Parker (Folsom High) Haven posted a 30 point, 10 rebound double-double for ARC. full box

A 54-17 initial 20 minutes led to Santa Rosa Junior College’s 88-45 victory over Diablo Valley College. Skylar (Drake High) Chavez led the host Bear Cubs with 21 points (8-11 overall shooting) and Nick Cole buried five three-pointers for his 15 points. SRJC box

Freshman guard Greg (Cosumnes Oaks High) Milton III brought 30 points to visiting Sacramento City College but the Panthers fell 81-77 to Modesto Junior College.

MONDAY

In a game that took two days to complete due to a gymnasium issue, visiting City College of San Francisco used a 48-19 second half to defeat Foothill College 73-56. Austin McCullough led with 20 points with teammate Malcolm Johnson was enormously impactful via 16 rebounds, 15 points, four assists, three blocks and two steals. Ram box

Trey (Harbor High) Whitley’s 28 points (earning a remarkable 17 shots at the foul line and making 15) played a critical role in Cabrillo College topping host Monterey Peninsula College 76-68. He also dished out eight assists versus zero turnovers. Anthony (Heritage High) Dennis led the Lobos with 18 points followed by Marquis (Woodside High) Pickrom’s 17. full box

Lakeshow Hoops: “Congrats to Bethel unsigned senior Chance McMillan earning League MVP…”

“Rivalry time: Sacramento-Grant playoff is a meeting of storied programs, coaching pals” Joe Davidson

Whitworth Men’s Basketball: “Shoutout to Kyle Roach who was named a TOP 50 Finalist for the Small College Bevo Francis Award! Congratulations Kyle!”

“OFFENSIVE ATHLETE OF THE WEEK DAVID MENARY
Redlands, Junior, 6-foot-5, Forward, Nevada Union High, Grass Valley, CA
David Menary led Redlands to a 96-74 win over California Lutheran and a 62-51 victory over Caltech. He averaged 19.0 points per game, shooting 52% from the field and 73.3% from the free throw line. He added 13 rebounds, three steals and a block during the week in addition to handing out seven assists.”

Due to circumstances beyond our control, the next Nor Cal Basketball links will likely be published on Friday, February 22. We’re aiming for Wednesday, February 20, but that’s questionable.

Another note, non basketball-related:

“Colin Kaepernick won. Period.
Kaepernick stood his ground — and the NFL finally backed down” Jason Reid

“Colin Kaepernick’s lawyers reportedly had evidence that would have been ’embarrassing’ for the NFL” Cork Gaines

Is there anyone in a big time corporate leadership position simply stealing blood money like Roger (concussions, what concussions?) Goodell (besides Comrade Trumpski, but that’s a given)? Well, a case could be made for the NFL team owners collectively who signed Goodell to a new contract this year.

SATURDAY

Host UC Irvine, powered in part by Jonathan (Salesian) Galloway’s 14 points and 11 rebounds, knocked off UC Santa Barbara 83-70. Galloway also provided two blocked shots and a pair of assists.

Visiting USF edged Portland 68-63 in overtime in large part due to Frankie (Burlingame High) Ferrari’s 20 points, five boards, three assists and two steals. He shot 6-11 from long distance.

Jesse (Drake High) Hunt provided 21 points, seven boards and six assists as Eastern Washington won 88-78 in overtime against Northern Colorado.

Sayeed (El Cerrito High) Pridgett was back at again this time with 22 points, seven rebounds and five assists in Montana’s 80-68 victory over host Idaho State. He shot 11-15 overall.

Carlos (El Cerrito High) Johnson continued on his roll of late with 21 points as Grand Canyon bopped Chicago State 90-59.

Phil (Franklin High) Fayne concluded with 18 points plus 11 rebounds but Illinois State fell at home to Bradley 65-59.

San Jose State University fell 71-64 to visiting UNLV even though Michael (James Logan High/CCSF) Steadman provided 16 points and seven boards (8-12 overall shooting) and freshman guard Zach (Capital Christian) Chappell filled the stat sheet with 11 points, nine assists, six boards and a pair of steals.

Occidental took down Pomona-Pitzer by one,  64-63, despite the Sagehens getting 23 points from Daniel (Los Altos High) Rosenbaum plus 18 via Corbin (Sacred Heart Prep) Koch.

In Hayward, Ant (San Leandro High/Cañada College) Navarette posted a 28 point, 12 rebound double-double as Cal State East Bay edged Sonoma State 66-55.

On the road, Fresno City College bested Porterville College 81-77 as sophomore guard Georgie (Beyer High) Dancer led with 27 points as well as seven boards and five assists. FCC box

“NCS, CCS basketball: Saturday’s surprises, trends and more
Thompson cousins lead Logan; Los Altos boys win another tight one; Sobrato-Burlingame boys combine for 53 points” Darren Sabedra

FRIDAY

College

“Yuba College defeats Napa Valley 81-60 for 12th straight win” John Stevens

CCSF 94, Las Positas College 65 “McCullough delivers in first game back, helps CCSF Rams win 94-65” Patrick Cochran

In Gilroy, Gavilan College jumped out to a 53-34 halftime lead versus visiting  Monterey Peninsula College on the way to an 88-74 win as Ibn Zaid led with 21 points.

Dymond Hanks led with 29 points as host Cabrillo College turned away DeAnza College 70-63. Teammate Yeskin Williams provided a 14 point, 11 rebound double-double. Seahawk box

Kyle (Dublin High) Brown scored 27 points and teammate Jordan (James Logan High) McGlory filled the stat sheet with 19 points, 11 boards and four assists as Chabot College took care of visiting Ohlone College 75-68. Chabot box

“Vikings pull away from Jaguars behind Walker and Hewitt” West Valley College athletics

High School

“Stunner! How Sacred Heart Cathedral toppled top seed Mitty
Irish become first No. 8 seed to win a CCS Open Division first-round boys game” Darren Sabedra

“Out of tragedy, Kori McCoy helps lead Sacred Heart Cathedral to historic upset” Ryan Gorcey

“Bethel High boys basketball falls to top-seeded Bishop O’Dowd in playoffs” Thomas Gase

“Senior guard takes center stage in DLS’s quarterfinal win
Thomas Gregorios keys fourth quarter surge as Spartans earn another close win over Amador Valley” Curtis Pashelka

“Begovich scores 27, but St. Ignatius falls to Bellarmine” Ryan Gorcey

“Serra felled by Menlo-Atherton in first round of CCS Open Division” Ethan Kassel

“Tam eliminated by Las Lomas in quarterfinal heartbreaker   Hawks finish season 15-13 after squandering early lead to defending NorCal Division I champs” Danny Schmidt

“Fast start triggers Campo quarterfinal victory” Prep2Prep

“St. Patrick-St. Vincent High boys basketball team advances with win over Miramonte” Matt O’Donnell

“Folsom survives upstart Franklin in Division I basketball playoffs, but coach is miffed” Joe Davidson

The California Community College Men’s Basketball Coaches Association has announced its 2019 Hall of Fame Class and it includes: “John Bynum, College of the Sequoias

“John Bynum, a graduate of Whitney High School in Visalia, was a two-time All-Central Valley Conference player and a two-time all-state selection. He scored over 1,000 points in his two-year career as a Giant and amassed over 500 rebounds and 400 assists. He averaged 16.4 points and 5.1 rebounds per game, finishing in the top 10 in the state in field goal percentage shooting at 59.1 percent his final season.

He success at Sequoias led to Bynum signing with Metropolitan State University in Denver. During his time with the Roadrunners, he played in two national championships and helped the Roadrunners amass a two-year record of 61-10. In 2000, Metropolitan State University raised the NCAA Division II national championship banner after securing a 97-79 victory over Kentucky Wesleyan. Bynum was selected to the Elite 8 all-tourney team after shooting 64 percent from the field.

In his career, he played in 70 games at Metropolitan State University, making 46 starts. He concluded his career with a 11.4 scoring average. She shot .535 (294-550) from the floor, .321 (18-56) from three-point range and .682 (192-283) from the free throw line to go along with a 4 per game rebound average.

After completing his career at Metropolitan State University, Bynum headed overseas. He made his professional debut with the Solent Stars of the National Basketball League in England. Bynum averaged over 30 points a game his rookie season and led the team in rebounds and assists.

He then headed to Germany where he played for the Grevenbroich Elephants, a third-tier league team. In 2002-03, Bynum led the team to the championship. He then headed to Norway and the Ulriken Eagles, coached by current NBDL Bakersfield Jam coach Wil Voigt. Together, they led the Eagles to playoffs with Bynum leading the team in scoring (20 point per game) and rebounds. Following his stint in Norway, he returned to Germany and Grevenbroich, now a member of the top-tier English Basketball League.

In the 2004-2005 season, Bynum averaged 26.0 points, 7.7 rebounds and 5.4 assist and was named to the Eurobasket.com First Team. After going to the prestigious Treviso camp in Italy and the East Meets West Camp in Poland, Bynum signed a contract to play for Etha Engomis in the first division in Cyprus. He was released in the pre-season, but two months later signed Bremerhaven, a top-tier team in Germany.

In all, Bynum played 12 years of professional basketball overseas covering three different countries, England, Norway and Germany. Bynum co-founded B3 Elite, and today he is employed at Shoot 360 Basketball and is manager of the Signal the Light Basketball website which covers California community college basketball.”

THURSDAY

USF handled Pepperdine 89-77 at home with Jordan (De La Salle) Ratinho breaking out of his shooting slump with 29 points, powered by 7-9 three-point accuracy.

Anchored in the middle by Joshua Patton’s 23 points and 14 boards, Sacramento State nabbed an 84-73 success versus Southern Utah.

St. Mary’s took care of Santa Clara 66-55 with Jordan (Folsom High) Ford’s 23 points leading the Gaels in scoring.

Joey (Newark Memorial High) Zamora provided a very helpful 17 points, shooting 5-7 from three-point range, as host New Mexico State topped Utah Valley 84-77.

San Diego fell at home 88-82 in overtime to BYU despite Isaiah (Placer High) Pineiro providing 20 points, 12 boards and five assists.

Montana won 83-80 on at road at Weber State as Sayeed (El Cerrito High) Pridgett owned the matchup with 29 points and 16 rebounds.

Host Cal State East Bay triumphed 77-64 against San Francisco State with Ant (San Lorenzo High/Cañada College) Navarette leading the way via 22 points plus seven boards while teammate Patrick (De La Salle) Marr contributed 19 and 11. Jiday (Archbishop Riordan/Sacramento State) Ugbaga’s 19 points  paced the Gators. He added six caroms.

Chico State hosted Cal State San Bernardino and produced a 73-62 success as Isaiah (Sheldon High) Brooks totaled 19 points plus seven assists and Kevin (St. Mary’s High) Warren 15.

Santa Rosa Junior College received strong efforts from Atmar (Washington High-Fremont) Mundu (22 points, five assists and a trio of steals), Skylar (Drake High) Chavez (28 points) and Ryan (Petaluma High) Perez (16 points) in taking down American River College 86-81.

Lance Coleman III posted a 26 point, 10 rebound double-double in Fullerton College’s 67-55 victory over Cypress College. full box

WEDNESDAY

Phil (Franklin High) Fayne enjoyed 21 points plus eight boards in Illinois State’s 77-64  loss to Northern Iowa.

Even aided by Temidayo (St. Joseph Notre Dame) Yussef’s 17 points and eight rebounds, Long Beach State fell 85-82 to Cal State Fullerton.

In a down-to-the-wire one, Fresno City College edged host Columbia College 50-48. Ram Georgie (Beyer High) Dancer provided 18 points, six boards and three assists while teammate Ethan (Madera High) Richardson scored 18 points and grabbed seven rebounds. game video FCC box

Visiting Gavilan College took care of DeAnza College 99-76 as Ibn Zaid shot 7-10 from long distance in scoring 30 points. DJ (Valley Christian High) Burgess tallied 25 and Daylon (Edison High) Potts added 15 boards plus 12 assists. Gavilan box

Patrick Washington tallied 32 points and teammate Julian (Oakland High) Taylor 24 plus nine rebounds but visiting College of Alameda fell 94-80 to Los Medanos College. FCC box

In double overtime, host Skyline College bested Chabot College 109-102. Kyle (Dublin High) Brown paced CC with 34 points. Chabot box

“Johnson, Walker lead Vikings to season sweep of Hartnell” West Valley athletics WV box

“Trio Leads Sagehens into Nation’s Top 10” Pomona-Pitzer athletics

Micah (Lick-Wilmerding) Elan, Daniel (Los Altos High) Rosenbaum and Corbin (Sacred Heart Prep) Koch are featured. The trio went for 21 points, 24 points and 12 points respectively in Wednesday’s 94-71 win over Whittier.

“Chimae Ugbaja does family name proud in Senior Night win for Riordan” Ryan Gorcey

Verbal Commits: “2019 Sheridan College (WY) F A.J. Bramah has received an offer from Coastal Carolina.”

Bramah is 6-foot-7 and out of San Leandro High.

“Davis wins first playoff game since 1999, sets aim at section’s top seed: ‘We believe’” Joe Davidson

UC Santa Cruz closed out its regular season with a 73-63 win versus Laverne University last Saturday as Sam (Vacaville High) Gabbard just missed a double-double with 16 points and nine boards. The Slugs finished 14-11 in 2018-19.

“How ‘perfect’ videos were James Borrego’s first step in path to coaching the Hornets” Rick Bonnell

“It’s More Than Just the Shot  Steph Curry’s stroke changed the game of basketball, but his ability to turn weakness into strength has vaulted him up the list of the greatest players of all time. Curry discusses how he rounded out his historic game ahead of his return to Charlotte for the 2019 All-Star Game” Kevin O’Connor

So who is the California Community College Athletic Association Nor Cal Most Valuable Player this season, at least thus far? Let’s nominate the top two contenders and take a statistical measure of each.

6-foot-4 freshman guard Michael (Tracy High) Hayes of Las Positas College (LPC) is averaging 24.o points, 9.4 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 2.2 steals per game while shooting 60%, 26% and 70%. A negative for him is 4.2 turnovers a contest.

Although this element doesn’t factor into our assessment, Hayes’ human highlight film capabilities are unrivaled.

LPC is 20-4 overall, 8-1 in the Coast North Conference.

6-foot-5 sophomore guard/forward Skylar (Drake High) Chavez of Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC) is averaging 28.8 points, 7.0 rebounds 2.5 assists and 1.3 steals per game while shooting 53%, 41% and 87%.

SRJC is 18-6, 9-3 in the Big 8 Conference.

So the numbers for each are extremely comparable.

It’s difficult to measure the so-called strength of teammates on the rosters of the two teams but, in looking at Las Positas and Santa Rosa, it appears the former is a tad more formidable in taking pressure off the team’s star on a nightly basis. Meaning, LPC has a better chance of winning a game than SRJC even if Hayes isn’t providing his usual productivity, versus the Bear Cubbers surrounding Chavez this season. Call that greater pressure on Chavez to produce.

So each player provides different strengths with Hayes an amazing physical talent and Chavez the ultimate shooter. We’re a slight lean for Chavez at this point. The factor which may end up being a so-called tiebreaker is whose team finishes higher in the state playoffs. In other words, who carries his team the furthest.

From TUESDAY

“Delta College men’s basketball team wins Big 8 title” Stockton Record

(host) Sierra College 64, Santa Rosa JC 51  Skylar (Drake High) Chavez led the Bear Cubs with 21 points but was the sole SRJC player in double figures. SRJC box

Sacramento City College 70,  (host) Folsom Lake College Conor Jeffery led Sac City with 21 points and teammate Kyle Williams provided 19. SCC box

(host) Cosumnes River College 82, American River College 72 CRC’s Khari Hutt went for 27 points while Kharyem Mitchell paced Modesto with 24. full box

Cal-Hi Sports Northern California
Boys Basketball Player of the Week
Andre Crump Jr. (Monterey Trail, Elk Grove) Sr.

“CO-WEST DIVISION PLAYER OF THE WEEK – Joe Hoeup, Sr., G, Hardin-Simmons
Hardin-Simmons senior guard Joe Hoeup (Santa Rosa, Calif.) earned his third Player of the Week award of the year and fourth of his career, averaging 24.0 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.5 steals per game. His played guided the Cowboys to a pair of road wins and helped them secure a spot in the ASC Championship. Hoeup netted 29 points to go with eight boards in an 83-80 victory at Sul Ross State. He followed with 19 points, five boards and four steals in a 75-61 win at Howard Payne.”

Hoeup is out of Elsie Allen High.

“As high school basketball playoffs begin, here’s who can light up the scoreboard” Joe Davidson/Sacramento Bee

“NEW FAB 50: IT’S PLAYOFF TIME! ‘JUST WIN, BABY!'” Ronnie Flores

Salesian is in at #8 nationally.

From Danny Schmidt/Marin Independent Journal:

“SAN FRANCISCO CONTINUES TO CRUISE AT THE TOP OF NORCAL RANKINGS”
Signal The Light Basketball Week 14

“We were going to lose, but he took over.’ Meet Sonora’s perfect weapon.” James Burns  writes about Austin Patterson

“Weston Ranch finishes regular season No. 1. Can it go all the way in loaded D3?” James Burns

From LAST SATURDAY

Junior guard Aubrey (Palo Alto High/Michigan) Dawkins shot 9-12, 4-6 and 4-5 on his way to 26 points in Central Florida’s 71-65 over host SMU.

Host Missouri State edged Illinois State 66-65 despite Phil (Franklin High) Fayne garnering 22 points and six rebounds. Teammate Zach (Berkeley High/CCSF) Copeland provided 12 points, five boards, three assists and a pair of steals.

5-foot-10 junior guard Jack (St. Ignatius) Coulter scored 23 points on 8-12 overall shooting, 7-10 from three-point range in Denison College’s 90-75 loss to Allegheny.

Andre (Urban School) Campbell scored 18 points as Oberlin College bopped Hiram College 90-61. Teammate Christian (Menlo-Atherton) Fioretti totaled 16 points, six boards and four assists.

Earlier, Andre (Urban School) Campbell tallied 19 points and 10 boards in last Wednesday’s Oberlin College 95-94 victory over Allegheny.

From LAST FRIDAY

Erik (Marysville High/Yuba College) Scheive posted a 27 point, 14 rebound double-double as Chaminade edged Dominican University 80-75.

From LAST THURSDAY

Sophomore guard BJ (St. Patrick-St. Vincent) Standley led with 30 points as St. Martin’s handled Alaska Fairbanks 86-68.

“How the managing partner of a multi-billion-dollar private equity firm became a college basketball coach in Virginia” Ed Miller

“Newly acquired Suns guard Tyler Johnson speaks with media after being traded from the Heat   Johnson defines himself as a basketball player and doesn’t need a label for a certain position” Ashley Nevel

SATURDAY

San Diego fell 70-67 to Pepperdine despite Isaiah (Placer High) Pineiro garnering 13 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and a pair of steals for the border squad.

Sayeed (El Cerrito High) Pridgett just missed a double-double with 19 points and nine boards as Montana bested Eastern Washington 75-74. Jesse (Dranke High) Hunt got his double-double, 14 points and 12 rebounds, in leading EW.

Long Beach State bested Cal Poly 76-68 in overtime as Temidayo (St. Joseph Notre Dame)  Yussef provided 12 rebounds, 10 points and four assists in 26 minutes for The Beach.

Michael (James Logan High/CCSF) Steadman concluded with 16 points but San Jose State University was clobbered 105-47 by Boise State.

Powered by four players scoring in double figures, Pomona-Pitzer handled Cal Lutheran 78-61.

Host Cal State San Bernardino edged UC San Diego 77-75 despite the latter getting 16 points and 13 rebounds from Chris (Campolindo High) Hansen.

Cal State East Bay overcame Cal State Dominguez Hills’ Mikey (Manteca High/Modesto Junior College) Hatfield’s 22 points in winning 74-72 on the road.

In another close, Jordan (Colfax High/Cal State East Bay) Balser exploded for 31 points (12-15, 4-5, 3-3 shooting) as San Francisco State topped visiting Sonoma State 70-68. Jordan (St. Patrick-St. Vincent/Santa Rosa JC) ) Hickman tallied 19 points for Sonoma.

In Turlock, Chico State nabbed a road win, 58-47, over Cal State Stanislaus as Malik (Jesuit High) Duffy scored 16 points while grabbing eight boards and teammate Marvin (Franklin High) Timothy posted an 11 point, 10 rebound double-double.

“Stuart Hall comes back from down 17 to win BCL West Tournament in Kezar classic” Ethan Kassel

FRIDAY

Dempsey (Redwood High) Roggenbuck tallied 23 points on 8-10, 6-7, 1-2 shooting but Linfield College fell 74-73 to Whitworth.

Host Las Positas College edged Chabot College 96-94 as freshman Michael (West High) Hayes led LPC with 24 points and John (Freedom High) Ketchel dished out 14 assists alongside 18 points. Akili (Sacramento High) Daniels led Chabot with 30 points with Jordan (James Logan High) McGlory and Kyle (Dublin High) Brown scoring 19 apiece. full game video full box

Gavilan College bested visiting Cabrillo College 62-46 as DJ (Valley Christian High) Burgess paced the Rams with 15 points. full box

Santa Rosa Junior College hosted Cosumnes River College and nabbed a 91-77 victory behind 45 points from Skylar (Drake High) Chavez. He added seven boards and three assists as the Bear Cubs earned 28 assists on 33 baskets. full game video SRJC box

Monterey Peninsula College took the measure of visiting West Valley College 61-54 as 6-foot-11 sophomore Talili (Kimball High) Leaea enjoyed 13 points and 12 rebounds for the victors. MPC box

Sacramento City College received seven treys and 23 points plus eight boards and six assists from Greg (Cosumnes Oaks High) Milton III in an 84-51 victory over Diablo Valley College. full box

Visiting Skyline College edged Ohlone College 82-79 as Masie (Serra High) Mohammadi connected on seven treys on his way to 28 points for the winners. Skyline box

“Yuba blows out Alameda 96-48” John Stevens

“Branson rallies to beat Redwood, captures 2nd straight MCAL title / Bulls overcome 15-point deficit in thrilling, 41-40 victory” Danny Schmidt

“Branson rallies to capture MCAL tournament title” Michael Baribault

“Mitty holds off Serra for WCAL boys basketball crown” Mitch Stephens

“Mitty flips script on Serra to win WCAL title” Ethan Kassel

“St. Mary’s runs wild against Lincoln in TCAL finale” Nick Woodard

“Ripon bests Ripon Christian to take TVL title” Kevin Niendorf

UC Santa Cruz finished its home schedule last Monday with a 60-57 victory over Pacific Union as Sam (Vacaville High) Gabbard provided 21 points plus nine rebounds for the Slugs. Teammate Russell (Arcata High) Taylor contributed 18 and nine.

“Rams promote family atmosphere” Gilroy Dispatch

“Norcal Players Gone Prep Route (Crush In The Valley)” Simply Basketball

Frankie Ferrari has ‘it,’ a charismatic style of play which draws in both court side and television viewers and turns them into fans. Simply put, he’s is fun to watch and is identifiable for so many, not being a giant nor blessed with an exceptional array of athletic skills.

Ferrari developed incredible court vision as a youngster and, more often than not, gets the ball to his teammates in a position where they will either score or at least get a solid look at the basket. Label the USF senior wily because, even after concerted video study, it is impossible to predict if he will be passing or taking a shot when he dribble-drives to the basket.

Another asset Ferrari currently presents is a remarkable 125/39 assist-to-turnover ratio despite being the focal point of opposing defenses and faced with the task of creating offensive openings.

But what’s also notable is how little interest he drew from D1 college coaches, both out of high school and then again two years later. The concerns centered around his size and athletic ability and, connected to those items, could he defend at a high level?

It took some time plus added strength but he allayed all fears. The senior point leads USF with 33 steals, a testament to quick hands and an understanding of where to position himself defensively.

Ferrari signed with Rex Walters and played intermittently in the 2014-15 season on the Hilltop. After transferring to nearby Cañada College but not playing the next academic year, he returned to USF when Kyle Smith was hired to replace Walters. A broken hand delayed his season debut and Ferrari eventually enjoyed a so-so sophomore run. But he turned the proverbial corner as a junior and earned All-West Coast Conference First Team honors and is a lock for the same award this season. He would be in the running for conference most valuable player were it not for a couple of guys up in Spokane. However, Ferrari certainly is the most valuable Don.

KP: “2019 PG Zyon Pullin (College Park) has received an offer from head coach David Patrick at UC Riverside!”

Call 6-0 2019 prospect Andre Crump busy and productive:

R Fields: “Single greatest scoring performance I’ve ever witnessed as a coach. 50! 5-0! FIFTY! @andrecrumpjr is a beast! Incredible senior night.” His output included 10 treys.

Monterey Trail Hoops: “With so many to choose from it’s hard to select just a few. Congrats again to Andre Crump on breaking the single season assist record previously held by AJ Bridges. Last night he became our assist king.”

Cal-Hi Sports Northern California
Boys Basketball Player of the Week
Jamar Marshall (St. Mary’s, Stockton) Jr.

THURSDAY

Jordan (Folsom High) Ford finished with 28 points as St. Mary’s bested Pacific 78-66 in Moraga.

Sayeed (El Cerrito High) Pridgett led with 21 points as Montana ran over Idaho 100-59.

Frankie (Burlingame High) Ferrari scored 14 points, grabbed four rebounds, pilfered four steals and dished out three assists but USF was bombarded by host Gonzaga 92-62.

Hawaii took down Long Beach State 77-70 despite The Beach getting 17 points and eight boards from Temidayo (St. Joseph Notre Dame) Yussef.

Stokley Chaffee Jr. provided a solid 12 points, six rebounds and three blocked shots as Tennessee State got by Morehead State 81-80 in double overtime.

Shooting 9-13, 4-5 and 10-10, Mikey (Manteca High/Modesto Junior College) Hatfield paced Cal StateDominguez Hills to a 90-72 victory over Cal State Monterey Bay.

In the Southland, Ant (San Leandro High/Cañada College) Navarette earned a 16 point, 10 rebound double-double as Cal State East Bay downed Cal State Los Angeles 83-73.

In an upset in Turlock, Stanislaus State 88, Humboldt State 84: “Warriors rocked the house, beat Humboldt State on Homecoming Night”

WEDNESDAY

Behind Jonathan )Salesian) Galloway’s 14 points and 11 boards, UC Irvine topped CSU Fullerton 60-53.

Cabrillo College 78 Hartnell College 69 — Led by 23 points from Trey (Harbor High) Whitley and Yeskin Williams’ 15 point, 11 rebound double-double, the Seahawks used a 43-35 second half to defeat visiting Hartnell. Cabrillo box

Fresno City College 93 Cerro Coso 68 — Powered by Ethan (Madera High) Richardson’s 23 points and 10 boards, the Rams won both halves in grabbing a road win over CC. FCC box

City College San Francisco 90, Cañada College 72 — Malcolm Johnson (heading to UC Davis) stuffed the stat sheet with 24 points, 10 rebounds, six steals and five assists in the Rams’ takedown of visiting Cañada.

West Valley College 86, DeAnza College 82 — Cristian (Milpitas High) Mejia went for 18 points and teammate Devante Johnson provided an enormous contribution of 17 points, nine assists, eight boards and four blocked shots as the Vikings edged DeAnza College 76-72. For the Dons, Ajay (Cupertino High) Singh led the Dons with 28 points, while Darien (West Campus High) Davis had 25. West Valley box

Monterey Peninsula College 70, San Jose City College 57 — As usual,  6-foot-3 sophomore Anthony (Heritage High) Dennis loomed large with 27 points plus nine rebounds and 6-foot-11 teammate Talili (Kimball High) Leaea posted a 13 board, 10 point line.

Chabot College 59, Foothill College 54 — Freshman Jordan (James Logan High) McGlory earned a 15 point (10-10 at the foul line) , 13 rebound double-double as host Chabot downed the Owls. Chabot box

6-foot-2 freshman guard Elijah (Bishop O’Dowd) Hardy has returned to the court for Washington after missing time due to a broken hand suffered in mid-November.

As he has yet to appear in a game, it appears 6-foot-6 freshman B.J. (Bishop O’Dowd) Shaw is redshirting this season at UC Davis.

In 21 games/starts for Puget Sound, Jimmy (Serra High) Wohrer is averaging 33.5 minutes and 20.6 points per game as well as 3.6 rebounds and 3.3 assists. He is shooting 48%, 41% and 87%.

Trevor (Monte Vista High/Cal Poly) John is a senior at Drexel averaging 12.2 points plus 2.4 rebounds. His shooting accuracy: 44%, 42%, 95%. 182 of his 213 shot attempts have been three-pointers.

6-foot-4 Druce (Tracy High/Cal State East Bay) Asah is averaging a team best 15.9 points per game for Metro State located in Denver. In 18 games/starts and 31.3 minutes, the junior is 43%, 39% and 83%

UC Davis is coming off back-to-back Big Dance appearances and, while this season has the Aggies struggling with a 6-14 overall, 2-4 Big West Conference record, help is on the way in the form of northern California recruits 5-foot-9 Ezra Manjon of Heritage High and 6-foot-7 Aaron Murphy of Modesto Christian.

One northern California college coach said of Manjon: “He is very athletic and super skilled. He’s better than Davis.”

5-foot-9 Big West Player of the Year T.J. Shorts II is a senior point for the Aggies so early opportunity will be available for Manjon in 2019-20.

The same coach also praised the uber-athletic Murphy for his powerful return from a knee injury. Davis is in need of an athletic and productive three and Murphy fits the bill.

Nabbing a pair of talents possessing the talent/potential to play at a higher level than the Big West Conference is critical in keeping a successful program going. Congrats to Coach Jim Les and Assistants Kevin Nosek, Kyle Vogt and Jono Metzger-Jones for these achievements.

TUESDAY

Illinois State fell 69-53 to Valparaiso despite getting 17 points, three assists and three steals from Zach (Berkeley High/CCSF) Copeland.

Santa Rose Junior College bested visiting Modesto Junior College 82-65 with Bear Cubs Skylar (Drake High) Chavez and Ryan (Petaluma High) Perez scoring 20 and 16 points respectively. Trey (Kelseyville High) Conrad tallied 12 and Jayson (Cloverdale High)  McMillan 11. SRJC box

San Joaquin Delta College edged visiting Sierra College 79-77 as Spencer (Lodi High) Montiero continued with his fine season. The 6-foot-6 sophomore posted a 21 point, 11 rebound double-double. 6-foot-7 teammate Cameron (Stockton Christian) Pieters contributed 14 points plus nine boards. SJDC box

Host Cosumnes River College edged Sacramento City College 53-50 as Sean (Roseville High) Granucci led the victors with 17 points. Greg (Cosumnes Oaks High) Milton III paced Sac City with his own 17 points. full box

MONDAY

Host Fresno City College defeated West Hills Coalinga 80-61 as David (Kerman High) Rico led with 18 points, Ethan (Madera High) Richardson tallied 13 plus 10 boards and Georgie (Beyer High) Dancer provided 13 points, seven rebounds and five assists. FCC box

Coach Rob Richards: “The beginning of the end. After 25 seasons of coaching the game I truly, truly love I will be stepping down as the Head Coach of Antelope HS. I leave with zero regrets – this is about taking care of myself & being there for my family & getting my health where it needs to be.”

Coach Richards will certainly be missed but congratulations to him and all the best in his future endeavors.

“SAN FRANCISCO CONTINUES TO ROLL AT THE TOP OF OUR NORCAL RANKINGS Week 13 Signal The Light Basketball”

SCIAC OFFENSIVE ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

“MICAH ELAN Pomona-Pitzer | Junior | Guard | San Francisco, CA

Micah Elan helped Pomona-Pitzer remain undefeated in conference play with a 73-57 win over Claremont-Mudd-Scripps (CMS), and a 100-61 victory over La Verne. Elan notched 19.0 points per game, including 21 against the Leopard, and shot 66.7% from the field. He added 11 rebounds, and dished out five assists during the week with four of the helpers coming against the Stags as the Sagehens moved to 10-0 in SCIAC play.”

Pomona-Pitzer is 18-1 so far this season, 10-0 in league play.

In Oberlin College’s 61-60 victory over Denison on Saturday, Andre (Urban School) Campbell scored 19 points. Last Wednesday, he finished with 21 points on 7-7 overall shooting and 5-6 from the foul line in a loss to Ohio Wesleyan.

Aiding the Union College (KY) cause this season are:

6-foot-3 senior guard K.J. (Kennedy High/Sacramento City College) Duronslet who, in 23 games/21 starts and 28.8 minutes a game, is averaging 15.7 points, 9.0 rebounds and a team high 39 steals while shooting 55%, 35% and 76%.

Last season was a splendid one for Duronslet as he was named an NAIA All-American Honorable Mention, named to the All-AAC First Team, named to the AAC All-Academic Team and named the AAC Tournament MVP.

and

6-foot-2 junior Derek (Redwood High/College of Marin) Morgan who, in 24 games/seven starts and 18.2 minutes per game, is averaging 15.3 points and 6.0 rebounds while shooting 54% overall and 40% at the foul line. He leads his team with 21 blocked shots and is second to Duronslet with 31 steals.

“Basketball bribes: How Adidas bankrolled a black market for top teenage talent” Brad Schmidt and Jeff Manning

“Jason Kidd’s club coach pulls double duty at Bay Area school
Donovan Blythe, in 12th year at helm of East Palo Alto girls powerhouse, also has boys on verge of league title” Vytas Mazeika

SATURDAY

It was a tale of two halves as St. Mary’s took an 86-80 homecourt victory over USF with a 47-30 initial 20 minutes versus the Dons winning the second half 50-39. Jordan (Folsom High) Ford paced the victors 26 points, eight boards and five assists while Frankie (Burlingame High) Ferrari provided 22 points plus nine assists for the Dons.

Gonzaga bested visiting San Diego 85-69 but Isaiah (Placer High) Pineiro played extra large for the Toreros and finished with 30 points plus 11 rebounds.

Carlos (El Cerrito High) Johnson led with 20 points and Damari (Moreau Catholic) Milstead supplied 18 as Grand Canyon University beat Cal State Bakersfield 72-59.

Terrell (Moreau Catholic) Brown provided 19 points in New Mexico State’s 82-39 obliteration of Chicago State.

Chico State 67, Humboldt St. 65 “Chico State men get back on the move” Jeff Larson

Daniel (Los Altos High) Rosenbaum’s team highs of 26 points, six boards and three steals carried Pomona-Pitzer to an 89-69 victory over Chapman University.

Fresno City College edged host College of the Sequoias 61-59 as Georgie (Beyer High) Dancer led with both 13 points and five assists. Ram box

Butte College 70, College of the Siskiyous 54 “Butte men fight through foul trouble to take down College of the Siskiyous” Will Denner

FRIDAY

Dempsey (Redwood High) Roggenburk canned 32 points for Linfield College as did Jimmy (Serra High) Wohrer for Puget Sound but the latter won 92-85 in overtime.

CCSF put the game away with a 57-22 second half and handled host Skyline College 96-50. Five Rams scored in double figures with Malcolm Johnson’s 18 points leading the way. CCSF box

Gavilan College bested host Hartnell College 63-48 as Xander (Christopher High) Bowers posted a 17 point, 10 rebound double-double and Daylon (Edison High) Potts contributed 17 boards. Gavilan box

Cabrillo College had no trouble taking down San Jose City College 96-64 as sophomore guard Trey (Harbor High) Whitley exploded for 35 points. Cabrillo box

Monterey Peninsula College topped visiting DeAnza College 90-80 behind Talili (Kimball High) Leaea’s 25 points plus 11 rebounds as well as 21 and 13 via Anthony (Heritage High) Dennis.

Las Positas College got by visiting Foothill College 73-71 as freshman Michael (West High) Hayes supplied 25 points and 12 rebound while teammate John (Freedom High) Ketchel posted an 11 point, 11 assist double-double alongside four steals. LPC box

College of Marin fell to 83-79 to Contra Costa College despite 20 points and 12 boards from Zamaria (Berkeley High) Odom and 12 points, 12 rebounds and four blocked shots supplied by Joey (Petaluma High) Potts. CoM box

Shooting 12-16, 4-6 and 2-2, Lance (St. Mary’s Stockton) Coleman II scored 30 points, grabbed five boards and dished out four assists in Fullerton College’s 88-65 victory versus Santiago Canyon. full box

On Wednesday: Lance Coleman II tallied 40 points and 13 boards in Fullerton College’s 93-53 victory. “…FC’s Lance Coleman II was impressive shooting 8 for 12 from downtown and was 13 for 20 from the floor…”

Perry Webster: “Lance Coleman has 70 in this week’s 2 games. When will somebody get smart? 3.5 student, no issues, great kid, great teammate, great leader, great player, winner!!! Big time shooter, but does many other things as well. Hit my line if u want a real BALLER!!!!”

“It’s over! How St. Mary’s became the first league team to beat MC in 23 years” James Burns

“SF Preps Basketball: University pulls away from Lick-Wilmerding in likely final tangle at Oracle” Ethan Kassel

Max Fried led University with 19 points.

“Prolific Prep co-director Philippe Doherty part of impressive family coaching tree” Cyril Penn

Coach Holloway: “After averaging 38ppg this past week Vanden 2020 wing (6-foot-5 Teiano Hardee) received his first offer from University of Northern Colorado!!! Congrats to him and his family. One of the more underrated players in his class”

“Alisal basketball’s father and son duo enjoying final season together on the court
SINCE THEIR DAYS AT THE YMCA, JOSUE GIL-SILVA’S SHARED COUNTLESS MEMORIES WITH HIS DAD AND COACH JOSE GIL. NOW, THE TWO HAVE WEEKS LEFT ON THE COURT” Ayrton Ostly

“Ohlone basketball player Marasigan Shines As Student-Athlete
Former Washington High player leads by example on and off the court; eyes career as physical trainer” Matt Schwab

“June Live Events: No Go For CIF” Ronnie Flores

“Cal-Hi Sports Northern California
Boys Basketball Player of the Week
Vincent Olmo (Ripon) Sr.”

“‘Something is going on with Vince.’ Why Ripon’s gentle giant is playing angry.” James Burns

“Athlete of the Week: Weston Ranch boys basketball player Donjae Lindsey shooting for state” Nick Woodard

In 21 games/starts and 30.8 minutes an outing, freshman guard Jake (Bellarmine College Prep) Wojcik is averaging 7.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, a 30/14 assist to turnover ratio plus a second-on-the-team 23 steals. He is shooting 33%, 37% and 90% with 128 of his 155 shot attempts being three-pointers.

6-foot-2 junior guard Marcus (Heritage High/Monterey Peninsula College) Wallace is averaging a team high 21.5 points, 4.6 boards and a team best 39 steals for Pacific University in Oregon. He is shooting 47%, 33% and 77% in 19 games/18 starts and 21.5 minutes per outing.

SJSU basketball: its past, present and future

Look at the San Jose State University men’s basketball coaching tenures of Bill Berry, Stan Morrison, Phil Johnson, Steve Barnes, George Nessman, Dave Wojcik and Jean Prioleau plus how ADs Randy Hoffman, Chuck Bell, Tom Bowen, Gene Bleymaier and Marie Tuite have performed. Even being scrupulously fair, we’re talking FOUR DECADES of failure, 40  *&%$#@ years. With but a few short-lived positive blips, all the earnest vows and catchy slogans were sunk by crony hires and insufficient funding, sometimes both simultaneously.

Spartan basketball is, at best, mired in mediocrity. It’s an alternate universe version of “Waiting For Godot” but on perpetual repeat. Despite a couple of unlikely Big Dances appearances from 1980 onward, the long-suffering program has been a frustrating nothingburger since the 1996 season. Whether being a member of the Big West Conference, the Western Athletic Conference or the current Mountain West Conference, the roundball Spartans have struggled. Check that, make it failed.

Let’s rev up the ol’ time machine and go back to 1979 when AD Bob Murphy hired Michigan State Assistant Bill Berry. It doesn’t fit the ‘friends hiring friends’ scenario  that later would so become entrenched as there doesn’t seem to be any previous ‘connections’ between the two but Berry’s hire deserves detailing because it eventually resulted in the infamous Spartan 10-player revolt. His misconduct — the consistently repellent mistreatment of the players — deserves no defense, period. Don’t even start. His behavior was unacceptable in any setting let alone that of a university. His Spartan coaching record: 142-144.

AD Randy Hoffman hired Stan Morrison in 1989 in order to bring some positivity, rather than browbeating and worse, to the program. Morrison wasn’t as successful overall as Berry and probably stayed in the position too long but his hire didn’t require the employment of an abuser. He was the necessary antidote to the poison preceding him and Morrison was not ‘related’ to Hoffman. His Spartan coaching record: 275-353.

In 1998, AD Chuck Bell brought in Phil Johnson and he coached for a season before joining the Bulls in the NBA (Chicago Coach Tim Floyd hired Johnson who later returned to SJSU in 2002). In 2005, the local media’s discovery of three Johnson DUIs led to his dismissal. Any individual with an illness such as alcoholism deserves a degree of empathy but how Bell simply disregarded Johnson’s off-the-court behavior is worthy of shame. Also, Johnson’s treatment of the players wasn’t Berry-like but still fell far short of acceptable. His Spartan coaching record: 31-83.

After Johnson’s 2002 single season stint, Bell turned to Steve Barnes (yet another member of the Tim Floyd/Larry Eustachy coaching ‘family’ to which Bell was beholden) and Barnes lasted three years (1999-2001) before he quit showing up for work. The same (mis)behavior towards players continued on, sort of a trademark of this group of coaches. Barnes moved on to assist, you guessed it, Larry Eustachy, at Iowa State, Southern Mississippi and Colorado State (before Eustachy was fired for mistreating his players in Fort Collins). His Spartan coaching record: 39-51.

AD Tom Bowen elected to hire George Nessman, a buddy from their De La Salle High days, and, say what you will about Nessman’s overall W-L record during his Spartan tenure, players were treated firmly yet fairly during 2005-2013. By the way, Nessman coached DLS basketball back when Bowen was the AD there. His Spartan coaching record: 86-161

Post Nessman, AD Gene Bleymaier hired Dave Wojcik in 2013 — the connection being the former was the AD at Boise State while the latter assisted with the basketball program. Wojcik’s was fired in 2017 for, drumroll, mistreating players. His Spartan coaching record: 32-90.

It’s telling that none of these former SJSU coaches has ever headed a D1 basketball program again.

Current head coach Jean Prioleau, a longtime Colorado assistant, produced a 2017–18 record of 4–26 overall 1–17 conference, Thus far in the 2018-19 season, SJSU sports a 3–17, 0–8 record. The three victories came in home games against Life Pacific, Bethune Cookman (by two points) and Northern Arizona (by five points).

Prioleau interviewed earlier when Dave Wojcik was hired. It’s worth noting that former California assistant, now Montana Coach Travis DeCuire, was also a member of the group that interviewed when Wojcik was hired and McCuire is coming off winning the Big Sky Conference Coach of the Year honors. Rick Croy, heading the California Baptist program in its move from the DII level to membership in the Western Athletic Conference, also interviewed for the SJSU opening which resulted in Wojcik’s hire.

So let’s consider this question: is it time to end the program? Let’s work towards reaching a conclusion by determining how should success be defined for SJSU basketball and what is required to be in place in order to achieve it.

Success is being annually competitive plus winning the conference every six or seven years. No 5-26 seasons. Not even a 10-19 record. 13-15 is acceptable once. Success is constancy and stability, blotting out the searing memories of being the perennial laughingstock of various leagues. It’s giving fans a reason to leave their homes in winter to come to Walt McPherson Court, and to donate to the program.

So why the history of failure?

Try coaching hires due to ADs possessing greater allegiance to their buddies than to SJSU. It has too often been a litany of bringing aboard friends or former employees as the head coach under the disguise of conducting national job searches and, too often, a deal was already in place when the assembly of interview panels and the charade of interviews went on so as to give the appearance of thoroughness and fairness.

Another factor is the employment of abusers. 18 seasons since 1979 have too often been under the brutal auspices of basketball coaches who should have never be allowed to be in charge of anything or anyone. This is remarkably maddening and especially wrong. Losing, however frustrating, can generally be dealt with — how does one process the perversion of abuse perpetrated by so many leaders representing Sparta?

A third reason is the limited salaries offered to new coaching hires. Recruits primarily choose a school because of the attraction to a coach. With SJSU basketball sporting virtually no other lures, why not make a splash by hiring a respected and successful head coach sporting a track record of the ability to recruit to a destination lacking any history of success. Yes, such a hire would cost more than what SJSU has ever spent on a basketball coach but consider the millions wasted on salaries over the last four decades.

This coincides with all these previous head coaches also having their respective hands tied due to via minuscule recruiting budgets.

SJSU hoops is a Big West Conference program, possibly Big Sky Conference, disguised as an under-funded MWC member. Either back it financially so that the necessary coach can be hired and recruit. To date, all has been a waste of time, money and effort.

A suggested antidote:

Rick Croy is a demonstrated program AND culture changer. The very successful head coach, currently at Cal Baptist University, has numerous achievements.

His Bay Area bonafides:

• Head Assistant Coach to Randy Bennett at St. Mary’s
• B.A. from San Francisco State, Croy was the leading scorer for SFSU in each of his final three seasons and was named to the All-California College Athletic Association (CCAA) team three times
• member of 1995 state champions Northgate High (Walnut Creek)

Other bonafides:

• National DII tournament appearances every season at Cal Baptist (four years running), 140-23 overall record
• coached Citrus College to three straight league championship (2008, 2009, 2010) with a 92-9 overall record
• coached Citrus College to state championship 2008 with a 35-1 record

Croy has won everywhere as both a head coach and an assistant. He also has endorsements from a variety of heavy hitters in Nor Cal basketball ranging from Randy Bennett to Frank Allocco to Bob Myers.

Bring Croy in with an attractive salary and a Mountain West Conference competitive recruiting budget. Either that or drop the level of men’s basketball (football as well but that’s a different story) to a lesser league. Closing down the SJSU program will never happen regardless of futility.

THURSDAY

James (Salesian) Akinjo led Georgetown with 23 points (plus five boards, five steals and four assists) in the 80-73 Hoya victory against Xavier.

With 20 points, Jiday (Archbishop Riordan) Ugbaja led San Francisco State to a 76-74 homecourt win over Cal State Los Angeles.

WEDNESDAY

Phil (Franklin High) Fayne provided 22 points in Illinois State’s 69-55 success versus Drake. Teammate Zach (Berkeley High/CCSF) Copeland totaled 19.

Michael (James Logan High/CCSF) Steadman finished with 20 points and six boards in San Jose State University’s 103-73 loss to Utah State.

The final score was Fresno City College 151 to West Hill Lemoore’s 56 as 10 Rams scored in double figures. FCC box

Cabrillo College topped visiting West Valley College 71-57 powered by four players finishing in double figures scoring. full box

Michael (West High) Hayes filled up the stat sheet once again with 32 points, nine boards, five steals and four assists in Las Positas College’s 97-83 takedown of visiting Cañada College. Teammate John (Freedom High) Ketchel post a 23 point, 10 rebound double-double while Goose (Piedmont Hills High) Persin tallied 21 points. LPC box

Host Gavilan College had no trouble putting away San Jose City College 92-58. Gavilan box

Ajay (Cupertino High) Singh provided 27 points plus right boards but DeAnza College lost to host Hartnell College. DeAnza box

“SF Preps Basketball: Serra comes back from down 20 to top SI in Jungle Game” Ethan Kassel

TUESDAY

Khari (Kennedy High) Hutt’s 25 points led host Cosumnes River College to an 83-56 victory over Folsom Lake College. CRC box

“NCS Boys Basketball Playoff Projections” Nate Smith

“CCS Boys Basketball Playoff Projections” Ethan Kassel

QUAZ Basketball: “The first piece of our 2019 class is a really good one…

Daylon Potts (@dpotts1500) from GavilanMBB impacts the game in a lot of different ways! Can’t say that about many players. Welcome aboard Daylon!”

Continuing in our series on community college teams: Gavilan College, a heretofore perennial cellar dweller, is now a conference championship contender as well as a factor to be reckoned with in the upcoming state playoffs. All this in just Coach Dallas Jensen’s second season at the helm.

Where do the Rams currently stand? A remarkable 19-2, featuring a two-point loss at home to Allan Hancock and a 75-58 defeat at the hands of host CCSF countered by a 10-point victory versus host Cabrillo College. Also worth noting are two other successes: an 84-64 win on a neutral court over San Joaquin Delta College and a 92-82 victory, again on a neutral court, against Las Positas College.

Other numbers: Jensen’s crew is averaging a very solid 80.3 points per game on 47% overall shooting plus 36% long distance accuracy. In contrast, Gavilan is allowing 63.3 points a night with opponents shooting 40% overall and 29% from three-point range.

Add in a 12.6 rebound margin, 23.1 assists an outing, 9.8 steals plus 5.5 blocks a contest.

The primary contributors:  6-foot-1 Ibn Zaid leads at 12.1 points a game, followed by 6-foot-5 DJ Burgess’ 11.8 points, 11.2 from 6-foot-5 Deion Ellis (plus 5.1 rebounds), 11.1 via 6-foot-7 Zander Bowers (plus 6.7 boards) and 6-foot-6 Daylon Potts is bringing 10.1 points nightly. Potts is also averaging 10.3 rebounds (best on the team) as well as 5.2 assists. 6-foot Patrick Fisher is tops with 5.8 assists.

 Surface analysis

Usually a team with its leading scorer at 12.1 points isn’t putting enough digits on the scoreboard to be successful but the Rams play unselfishly and as a unit with a different high scorer likely on any given night. True, the Rams don’t possess any game-in/game-out outside sharpshooters, someone likely to bury six treys on the way to totaling 25 or 30 points (7.4 threes on 20.9 attempts a night) but Zander Bowers, Daylon Potts and Deion Ellis are excellent offensive rebounders and this leads to both a greater number of possessions as well as close-in shots. Using quickness and strength, Gavilan also applies solid pressure defense, even outside the paint, and is managing those 5.5 blocks despite the tallest Ram receiving major playing time being just 6-foot-7.

The Gavilan roster:

• DJ Burgess G 6’5” 200 SO San Jose, CA Valley Christian HS
• Mrad Abrha G 6’1” 175 SO San Jose, CA Gunderson HS
• Xander Bowers F 6’7” 210 SO Gilroy, CA Christopher HS
• Taysean Nolan G 6’2” 180 FR Toronto, Canada Henry Carr HS
• Chris Pugh F 6’3” 160 FR Bloomington, IL Bloomington HS
• Ibn Zaid G 6’1” 185 SO Los Angeles, CA Taft HS
• Emontay Moultrie G 6’0” 155 FR Fresno, CA Roosevelt HS
• Patrick Fisher G 6’0” 165 FR Bloomington, IL Bloomington HS
• Daylon Potts G / F 6’6” 180 SO Fresno, CA Edison HS
• Kurtis McCoy F 6’5” 210 SO Fresno, CA Roosevelt HS
• Billy Hollman C 6’8” 230 FR Soledad, CA Soledad HS
• Jason Gallo F 6’5” 210 FR Watsonville, CA St. Francis HS
• Deion Ellis F 6’5” 200 SO Oakland, CA McClymonds HS
• Tyler Harris C 6’10” 245 FR Scotts Valley, CA Scotts Valley HS

John Bynum Jr/Signal The Light Basketball: “The last two weeks has been a difficult time figuring out what I want to do as it’s not easy trying to find yourself after your basketball career comes to an end. With that being said, I will be stepping away from Signal The Light Basketball & focus on my next career move.”

“I also would like to let everyone know that I will and intend to continue to provide our coverage until the last horn of this current season as i don’t quit things without finishing. It would not to be fair to the programs and kids that have helped me along the way.”

Not good news for JC basketball fans, coaches and players but we wish John the best in his next endeavor.

“SAN FRANCISCO STAYS HOT AND AT THE TOP IN WEEK 12 NORCAL RANKINGS Signal The Light Basketball”

“Crush In The Valley Roundup: Good day for NCS teams” Harold Abend

“Where does the Chico State men’s basketball team go from here?” Will Denner

The Wildcats followed this article with an 88-64 victory over Cal State San Marcos that included making 18 treys.

“ANT NAVARRETE SCORES CCAA PLAYER OF THE WEEK” Navarette is out of San Lorenzo High and Canada College.

In 19 games so far this season, 6-foot sophomore Brad (Pacific Grove High/Monterey Peninsula College) Sendell is averaging a team best 18.6 points plus 4.4 rebounds and 3.3 assists while shooting 44%, 35% and 89% for the Lawrence Vikings (WI).

SUNDAY

Kenny (Manteca High) Wooten scored 20 points in 26 minutes during Oregon’s 78-58 victory over Washington State. He shot 8-10 from the floor and 4-5 at the foul line.

Phil (Franklin High) Fayne totaled 26 points in Illinois State’s 76-62 takedown of Indiana State.

Freshman guard Logan (St. Francis High) Johnson played but 11 minutes for Cincinnati in its 72-68 defeat of Temple but it was a very productive time as he compiled a line of four points, three rebounds, two steals and an assist.

SATURDAY

With all five starters scoring in double figures, UC Santa Cruz bested host Cal Lutheran 81-67. Sam (Vacaville High) Gabbard led the way with 24 points, eight boards and three assists.

MIT Athletics: “Congrats to @mitmbb senior guard Cameron Korb, who tonight became the 30th player in MIT history to reach the 1,000-point mark for his career!”

Korb is a graduate of Archbishop Mitty.

“Rockets’ Marquese Chriss wants more playing time or he will request a trade” Emiliano Carchia

“James Nunnally signs a two-year contract with Milan” Allessandro Maggi

A great idea! Any program being led by Randy Bessolo, Matt Durell and Jon Shogan will be a quality, kids-first organization.

Bay City Warriors

A San Francisco high school basketball partnership Bay Area Warriors & Bay City Basketball Partnership:Two of San Francisco’s top boys high school AAU programs have decided to collaborate to form one strong brand. This exciting new program will provide San Francisco Bay Area high school players with an excellent program that specializes in development and placing players in all levels of college basketball. (D1/D2/D3, high academic, etc) . The program will feature local high school coaches that have experience coaching high school basketball, played college basketball and are dedicated to helping the kids succeed on and off the court.

The mission of the Bay City Warriors is to educate and help youth develop athletic skills while gaining a level of confidence and self-esteem that they can use on and off the court. The organization aims to serve the youth of San Francisco- Bay Area and mentor young student athletes regardless of their economic status.

Bay Cities Warriors Tryout

Register For Tryouts

Program Description and Schedule:

Bay City Warriors 2019 Schedule

Our Bay City Warriors Teams are for experienced high school basketball players that want to play college basketball and are extremely serious about their basketball development.

In addition, we will help the players gain exposure and get seen by college coaches / scouts in the highest quality viewing tournaments and high academic camps.

In 2019, the NCAA has re-organized their live period schedule and there are only two periods in which AAU teams are allowed to be viewed by D1 college coaches.

During those periods we will be attending camps and tournaments that we feel will be best for our specific players level of exposure.

We have carefully added additional tournaments/camps in which D2/D3 and JUCO coaches will be in attendance that are outside the “Live Period”.

The Bay City Warriors will wear Adidas uniforms and gear but be an independent team for 2019. This means we will attend the tournaments and camps in which we feel will best benefit our players no matter what company or brand is running the event. This gives us more flexibility to schedule what is best for our teams and players.

We will offer the following services to Bay City Warriors players:

• Identify the necessary skill improvements to taking your game to the collegiate level, and immediately begin helping you train and improve those skills
• Counsel players on the appropriate schools/level of college basketball they should pursue
• Assist in contacting and developing relationships with college coaches
• Putting you in front of college coaches to get the proper level of exposure that is right for you.
• Expanding leadership skills on and off the court
• Facilitate the production of highlight tapes and social media promotion where appropriate

Randy Bessolo
Program Director & Head Coach 17u

Randy Bessolo is one of the Bay Area’s most accomplished coaches and has a proven track record of getting his players to play in college. He will be leading the program and is committed to helping ALL Bay City Warriors players get recruited whenever possible.

See Randy’s full Bio

Matt Durell
Program Director & 16u Head Coach

Coach Durell’s Bay City Select 2019 team last year featured 12 players that potentially will play college basketball in 2019-2020. Matt has 10 years of high school basketball coaching experience and has coached and organized AAU for an additional 15 years.

He has coached in multiple national viewing tournaments on the west coast and has developed numerous college coaching connections along the way.

See Matt’s full bio

Jon Shogan
Bay City Youth Director & 15u Head Coach

Jon has been a varsity basketball coach for the past 6 years at Jewish Community HS.

Coach Shogan has also been coaching with Bay City youth program for 8 years and led the 2019 14u Select team to an amazing season in which they won several tournaments and succeeded at the highest level of AAU.

See Jon’s full Bio

CONTACT US
2242 POLK ST, SUITE 511
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109
(510) 910-3649

SATURDAY

“USF Dons basketball Tournament hopes damaged in road loss to San Diego” Ethan Kassel

Michael (James Logan High/CCSF) Steadman supplied 24 points plus 11 boards but host San Jose State University fell to Air Force 72-70 in double overtime.

Eastern Washington edged Sacramento State 94-92 as Jesse (Drake High) Hunt scored 22 points, grabbed 17 rebounds and dished out six assists for the victors.

Thanks in big part to Isaiah (Placer High) Pineiro’s 22 points and 13 boards, host San Diego defeated USF 67-63. He had six points and one rebound at the half.

Carlos (El Cerrito High) Johnson led with 26 points as Grand Canyon handled California Baptist 90-73. De’Jon (Oakland Tech) Davis led CB with 15 points plus 10 boards.

Up in Arcata, Humboldt State topped UC San Diego 67-65 as Justin (Buchanan High) Everett led the victors with 22 points.

Over in Turlock, Cal State East Bay grabbed a 69-62 overtime win over Stanislaus State despite Rolaun (Riverbank High) Dunham post a 17 point, 10 rebound double-double.

Malik (Jesuit High) Duffy was big with 26 points and teammate Isaiah (Sheldon High) Brooks provided 16 points plus 10 assists as Chico State nabbed an 88-64 victory over Cal State San Marcos.

Plus: “Chico State men’s basketball team fires away to snap losing skid
Wildcats tie single game record for 3-pointers made” Will Denner

With 21 points, Micah (Lick-Wilmerding) Elan led Pomona-Pitzer to a 100-61 beatdown of University of LaVerne. He shot 9-10 overall, 3-4 from long distance.

Fresno City College took care of host Reedley College 95-75 as Georgie (Beyer High) Dancer scored 23 points alongside eight boards while teammate Jonah (Clovis North High) Brown tallied 22 points. full box

“The Butte College men’s basketball team beat College of the Redwoods 62-47 in Eureka Saturday night, led by a standout performance by sophomore Eric Boose. He led Butte in scoring with 26 points while grabbing 14 rebounds…”

“Salesian reaffirms national prominence with Crush In The Valley trouncing of Nevada power Clark” Harold Abend

FRIDAY

Blake (Prospect High) Uyehara’s 20 points led host DeAnza College to a 69-61 victory over San Jose City College. DeAnza box

Behind 18 points and nine rebounds from Deion (McClymonds High) Ellis plus Daylon (Edison High) Potts’ 15 points, eight boards and seven assists as well as 11 points, nine rebounds, six assists and five blocked shots via Xander (Christopher High) Bowers, visiting Gavilan College handled West Valley College 82-60. Gavilan box

“Jefferey lights it up with a season high 28 points as the Panthers cruise to a 83-57 win over Sierra” Sacramento City College athletics  That’s freshman guard Conor Jefferey originally out of Capital Christian High. He shot 9-13, 5-7 and 6-7. SCC box

Sterlen (Vacaville High) Thomas was all-around ‘en fuego” with 31 points (11-12, 5-5, 4-5 shooting), eight boards and five assists in the Solano College 92-87 victory over visiting Contra Costa College. Solano College box

Host San Joaquin Delta College beat Santa Rosa Junior College 80-76 despite the latter getting 27 points and 10 rebounds from Skylar Chavez. SRJC box

Powered by Zethan Dumpson’s 27 points and nine boards, Will Fitzpatrick’s 23 points plus 12 rebounds and 10 assists via Matt Lyon, Folsom Lake College topped visiting American River College 87-68. Folsom Lake box

“Alisal hands Monterey first league loss in boys basketball” John Devine  Sebastian Reynoso scored 30 points for Alisal. The 6-foot-8 2019 prospect is averaging 17.4 points plus 13.0 rebounds per game alongside 2.8 blocks.

“Check this out: After an offensive foul against Bishop O’Dowd with 5.6 seconds left, Junior Maile drives for a layup at the buzzer to give San Leandro a 54-52 win on its home court Friday night, setting off a wild celebration.”

From Last Wednesday: “Koch Notches 1,000 Points As Sagehens Sweep Stags In Sixth Street Rivalry”  That’s Corbin Koch, out of Sacred Heart Prep and a senior at Pomona-Pitzer.

Gavilan College MBB: “Congrats to @dpotts1500 on his verbal commitment to play at @OUAZMBB next year under Coach @CoachKeeleyOUAZ and Coach @ahepker14. Could not be more proud of the life changes and progression you continue to make across the board. Future is bright. Love you Potts”

Daylon Potts is averaging 10.1 points, 10.3 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 1.8 steal an outing. He’ll be moving on to Ottawa University of Arizona.

Verbal Commits: “2019 Findlay Prep (NV) F/C Raymond Hawkins has received an offer from Buffalo.”

Joe Callero: “First year guard @MrBuckJ JR. Ballard may miss the rest of the season with a lower leg stress fracture! However, his positive attitude with his teammates & our coaching staff make him a refreshing inspirational role model!!!!Tough times won’t last, Real competitors will!!”

Junior Ballard is originally out of  Modesto Christian and now at Cal Poly.

“Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season – Round 20 MVP: Angelo Caloiaro…”

He is an Archbishop Mitty and USF grad.

Cal-Hi Sports Northern California
Boys Basketball Player of the Week
George Navarro
(Hoopa Valley, Hoopa) Sr.

Abdurrahman Zaid: “I’m super excited and blessed to say that I have signed to Eastern New Mexico University. All praises to Allah. Thank you to everyone who has helped me along my journey and big thanks to GavilanMBB  dallasjensen ENMUAthletics.”

“Men’s Basketball Adds First Member of 2019 Signing Class” Eastern New Mexico athletics

THURSDAY

Aided by Frankie (Burlingame High) Ferrari’s 18 points and four assists, USF downed visiting Portland 83-61. A 42-21 first half point differential put the game away.

In 31 minutes, Jiday (Archbishop Riordan) Ugbaja totaled 31 points, five assists and two blocked shots in San Francisco State’s 81-72 victory over host Cal State San Bernardino. He 8-14, 3-5 and 12-13.

In a pairing that needed overtime for a decision, Cal State Stanislaus turned back visiting Cal State Monterey Bay 93-85 aided by 21 points and 11 assists from Ty (College of Marin) Davis and 16 points plus 13 rebounds via Rolaun (Riverbank High) Dunham. Charley (Granite Bay High) Tooley’s 23 points led the Otters.

WEDNESDAY

Pomona-Pitzer bested Claremont-Mudd-Scripps 73-57 behind 17 points, seven boards and four assists from Micah (Lick-Wilmerding) Elan.

Fresno City College bopped host Merced College 87-68 as Jonah (Clovis North High) Brown and David (Kerman High) Rico each produced 21 points for the victors. FCC box

Host Monterey Peninsula College fell 76-63 to Gavilan College. For the Rams, Daylon (Edison High) Potts loaded up the stat sheet with 14 points, eight boards, five assists and four steals. 6-foot-3 Anthony (Heritage High) Dennis posted a double-double of 25 points and 16 boards for MPC. full box

Powered by the twosome of Trey (Harbor High) Whitley (23 points — five treys) and Yeskin Williams’ (17 points, 12 rebounds and six assists), visiting Cabrillo College topped DeAnza College 82-75. The Seahawks earned 25 assists on 30 baskets. 6-foot-2 freshman Dominic (Evergreen High) Simpkins posted a 29 point (eight treys), 10 rebound double-double for the Dons and teammate Ajay (Cupertino High) Singh earned his own via 16 points plus 11 boards.

City College of San Francisco scored a 92-63 win over host Las Positas College with a 58-35 second half breaking open the matchup. For LPC, Wesley (Enochs High) Burse shot 10-16, 7-11 and 5-6 on his way to 32 points while teammate Michael (West High) Hayes totaled 17 points alongside nine boards and seven assists. Both are freshman.

Chabot College 71, Ohlone College 60 as Jordan Cineus led Chabot with 16 points and Akili (Sacramento High) Daniels tallied 13.

Up in Vallejo, Sam (Vacaville High) Gabbard provided 27 points, 10 boards and five assists for UC Santa Cruz in a 73-72 victory to Cal Maritime.

“Cal Maritime men’s basketball loses heartbreaker to Santa Cruz at buzzer” Thomas Gase

“St. Francis upset evens up WCAL race; Riordan and Mitty now tied for first” Ethan Kassel

“PAL North still a four-team race” Ethan Kassel

“Upstart Franklin Wildcats talk life, basketball and the season’s biggest upset” Joe Davidson

Wonderful look, thanks Joe.

“College basketball: Can Saint Mary’s be great again?” Jeff Faraudo

UC San Diego: “Welcome to the club Chris!”

Chris Hansen is out of Campolindo High.

“Sidney Wants to Be Someone Else   The streets of East Dallas will do that to a man. But when a 25-year-old posed as a teenager and became a high school hoops star, reinvention led to a darker place.” Max Marshall

“Sheldon basketball forfeits 4 games. What happened? Does it derail playoff hopes?” Joe Davidson

“Elsie Allen grad playing big role down in Texas” Kerry Benefield/Santa Rosa Press Democrat

It’s about guard Joe Hoeup.

“Marinwood’s Kyle Roach, a senior guard at Whitworth University, was named the Northwest Conference’s Men’s Basketball Student-Athlete of the Week for the week ending Jan. 21. Roach averaged 27 points per game as the Pirates (15-2, 7-1 NWC) topped Puget Sound 98-84 and Pacific Lutheran 71-56 at home.

Roach, who is second on the team in scoring with 18.5 points per game, made nearly 70 percent of his field goals last week, including 66.7 percent from 3-point range. He went 16-for-19 at the free throw line added 11 assists and 11 rebounds…”

“P2P NCS Boys Basketball Top 25” Salesian remain numero uno.

“The Rockets had to cut a player because they didn’t know the NBA office was closed on a holiday  James Nunnally is a free agent because the Rockets forgot the NBA offices would be closed on Martin Luther King Jr. Day” Kristian Winfield

Michael Smith, the 6-foot-4 guard out of El Camino High and Cal Baptist, is playing for the Guanajuato-based Abejas team in the Mexican League. He is averaging 12.7 points plus 3.5 rebounds in 23.5 minutes of action. Smith played earlier in Germany.

6-foot-4 Sammy (Modesto High/Cal State Fullerton) Yeager is with Afula of the Israeli National League after averaging 25.0 points per game for a Mexican team in the 2018 season. In eight games this season, Yeager is scoring 19.3 points an outing. He also played earlier for the Texas Legends in the G League plus other locations overseas.

Continuing in our series on successful community college teams: City College San Francisco is the lockkeeper. Any team looking to reach The Final Two will need to climb past the Rams, a feat much easier dreamed about than accomplished. But this is truly a new squad on Phelan Avenue with just one returnee in guard Niamey Harris. Replacements for explosive Terrell Brown, frontliners Michael Steadman and Lewis Hayes, steady Michael Wright plus shooters Eddie Stansberry and Eddy Ionescu were needed in order to continue the success.

What happened: Two backcourt talents, Deschon Winston and Austin McCullough, crossed the Bay from California as did wing Walter Urbina from San Jose State University. Wing Malcolm Johnson transferred in from Cal State Dominguez Hills. Backcourter Dale Currie came down from the Sacramento area and frontliner  Emeka Undeyi, formerly of De La Salle, finished prep school and returned to the Bay Area.

Where do the Rams currently stand?

18-1 with just a four-point December 16 loss in Stockton to Cabrillo College marring the CCSF record. Two wins over Fresno City College (79-70 at home, 82-78 on the road) plus an 85-78 homecourt victory over Gavilan stand out as critical successes.

Other numbers: In 19 games, Coach Justin Labagh’s crew is averaging a state high 90.9 points per game and shooting 50% overall, 37% on treys (22.4 attempts per contest) 68% from the foul line (20.7 an outing). A healthy 9.5 rebound margin is a major plus and a remarkable achievement for a team lacking height. 11.3 steals to 5.5 is another major plus. Opponents are generating 68.2 points, shooting 43% overall plus 36% from long distance.

The primary contributors:

Four Rams are scoring in double figures: Austin McCullough at 15.1, Malcolm Johnson 13.9, Deschon Winston 13.3 and Walter Urbina 12.0.  Also, four others average 7.5 points per game or more. Sophomore point Niamey Harris is tops on the team with both 4.8 assists a night plus 2.1 steals.

Surface analysis:

CCSF won’t overpower any opponent with size and/or physical strength but rather by utilizing quickness and pressure. Having a different high scorer just about every night also makes CCSF a pick-your-poison opponent for opposing defenses. It’s a team game for the Rams, another feat worth noting for a group with so many newcomers and everyone looking to get to the next level.

The CCSF roster:

• Niamey Harris 6’3 200 So San Francisco, CA Mission High School
• Malcom Johnson 6’5 220 R-So Bakersfield, CA CSU Dominguez Hills
• Austin McCullough 6’5 215 So Birmingham, AL UC Berkeley
• Dale Currie 6’1 180 Fr Sacramento, CA Sheldon High School
• Deschon Winston 6’3 175 So Woodland Hills, CA UC Berkeley
• Alec Check 6’4 200 So Bakersfield, CA College of Sequoias
• Walter Urbina 6’7 200 R-Fr Los Angeles, CA San Jose St.
• Austin Harris 6’5 235 So San Leandro, CA San Leandro High School
• Kolman Kelly 6’3 200 So San Leandro, CA San Leandro High School
• Emeka Udenyi 6’6 230 Fr Oakland, CA De La Salle High School
• Jason Ricketts 6’5 225 Fr Paris, France Juan Diego Catholic High School (UT)
• Camani Grace 6’3 180 R-Fr San Leandro, CA San Leandro High School
  

 “The Long And Winding Road Of Frankie Ferrari” Harry Cummins

“USF Dons point guard Frankie Ferrari named WCC Player of the Week”

“Murray’s Mailbag: Why isn’t Nevada giving Jordan Brown more minutes?” Chris Murray

“SAN FRANCISCO STILL ON TOP IN WEEK 11 NORCAL RANKINGS Signal The Light Basketball”

With 42 points, Skylar (Drake High) Chavez scored over half of host Santa Rosa Junior College’s points in the Bear Cub 82-70 victory over Folsom Lake College on Tuesday. 5-foot-11 freshman Atmar (Washington High, Fremont) Mundu posted quite the line with 11 rebounds, nine assists and five points. full box

LJ  (Yuba City High) Smith provided 17 points, five boards, four steals and three blocked shots in American River College’s 83-80 loss to Sierra College. Teammate Parker (Folsom High) Haven enjoyed a 15 point, 15 rebound double-double. ARC box

In San Joaquin Delta College’s 77-72 victory versus Sacramento City College, Spencer (Lodi High) Montiero posted an 18 point, 11 board double-double for the victors. Greg (Cosumnes Oaks High) Milton III led SCC with 19 points. SCC box

“Las Positas, CCSF set for Coast-North basketball showdown Expect a lot of points when reigning state champion Rams visit red-hot Hawks, riding a seven-game winning streak” Matt Schwab

Utilizing a 21-9 fourth quarter, Salesian stormed ahead to take down Bishop O’Dowd 61-53 on Monday.

“Salesian holds on to NorCal summit” Mark Tennis (the article also includes writeups of other games)

“De La Salle can’t stop Fresno’s Jalen Green but wins in MLK Classic” Mitch Stephens (the article also includes writeups of other games)

St. John Bosco 68, Modesto Christian 65 (also on Monday)

Ethan Kassel: “MC_basketball: Satchell 18, Pearson 14, Knox 10,  Tsartsidze 9

Despite receiving 35 points in 37 minutes, guard Brian (Roosevelt High/Gavilan College) King and host Ottawa fell 98-95 to William Jessup on Saturday. King also grabbed nine boards.

“HUMBOLDT STATE’S EVERETT TABBED FOR CCAA WEEKLY HONORS”

“After helping extend the Humboldt State home winning streak to nine, Justin (Buchanan High) Everett has been named CCAA Player of the Week for Jan. 7-13…”

DEFENSIVE ATHLETE OF THE WEEK – GARY MENARY
Redlands | First-Year/Sophomore | Guard | Nevada Union HS Grass Valley, CA, Gary Menary helped Redlands to a three-win week with victories over Caltech (63-52), Occidental (101-97) and La Verne (83-55). He pulled down 21 rebounds for the Bulldogs with 15 of those coming on the defensive glass. He also contributed five steals, including four against the Leopards, and blocked a shot in each of the three games. He also chipped in 15 total points.

“Where are the fans at WCC basketball games?”

6-foot-5 sophomore Jake (Serra High) Killingsworth is averaging 7.5 points and 4.1 rebounds in 15 games/nine starts/25.5 minutes a contest thus far this season for Columbia. He is shooting 43%, 45% and 50% with 35 assists to just eight turnovers.

6-foot-4 sophomore Dempsey (Redwood High) Roggenburk is averaging 19.6 points in 16 games/starts and 29.6 minutes a contest thus far this season for Linfield College. He is shooting 51%, 40% and 64%.

6-foot-3 junior Trent (Foothill High/Shasta College) Blake is averaging 25.4 points and 3.7 rebounds in 18 games/starts and 27.0 minutes a contest thus far this season for Simpson University. He is shooting 49%, 46% and 86%.

“C.J. McCollum for Aaron Gordon: Who Says No?
The Magic need a point guard to help develop their young bigs; the Trail Blazers need a better pick-and-roll partner for Damian Lillard. Let’s make this happen!” Jonathan Tjarks

“Idaho basketball adds Oregon State center Jack Wilson”

SATURDAY

USF bopped visiting BYU 82-63 behind 21 points and seven assists — both team bests — from Frankie (Burlingame High) Ferrari. Teammate Jamaree (Palma High) Bouyea was big with 15 points, fours boards, three assists and a pair of steals. The Dons shot 64% overall.

Host St. Mary’s had no trouble with San Diego, winning 76-59, as Jordan (Folsom High) Ford tallied 21 points for the Gaels. Isaiah (Placer High) Pineiro’s 19 points and eight rebounds led the Southlanders

California fell to Washington 71-52 despite getting 14 points plus four rebounds from frosh Andre (Lincoln High) Kelly and 12 points, seven boards, five steals and three assists via Paris (Bishop O’Dowd) Austin.

Jesse (Drake High) Hunt provided 15 points, 10 boards and a trio of assists in Eastern Washington’s 85-81 win over Montana State.

Carlos (El Cerrito High) Johnson’s 21 points led Grand Canyon in a 78-50 romp over UMKC.

Powered by Terrell (Moreau Catholic High) Brown’s 19 points (plus five rebounds), New Mexico State took down Utah Valley 83-78.

Chris (Campolindo High) Hansen contributed 19 points and 10 boards with teammate Tyrell Roberts adding 18 points in UC San Diego’s 92-69 victory versus Cal State San Marcos. Hansen shot 5-5 from three-point range.

Justin (River Valley High) Briggs scored 21 points alongside eight rebounds for Chico State but the visiting Wildcats fell 80-72 to Cal State East Bay. The latter was led by Nai Carlisle’s 18 points, followed by Ant (San Lorenzo High) Navarette’s 17 and Juwan (Bishop O’Dowd) Anderson’s 15 plus eight assists.

Led by Daniel (Los Altos High) Rosenbaum’s 26 points (plus seven boards) and Micah (Lick-Wilmerding) Elan’s 13 points, nine assists and seven rebounds, Pomona-Pitzer topped Caltech 93-76.

Jared Small shot 8-11, 3-3 and 3-3 on his way to 22 points (in 26 minutes) as host Fresno City College edged Porterville College 81-80. FCC box

Zach (Fall River High) Thompson posted a 20 point, 10 rebound double-double in visiting Shasta College’s 72-64 success versus College of the Siskiyous. Shasta box

FRIDAY

Host Cabrillo College defeated Monterey Peninsula College 69-58 as Trey (Harbor High) Whitley led with 21 points via an ‘en fuego’ shooting night (7-8, 5-6 and 2-2). The Seahawks also earned 24 assists on 26 baskets. Cabrillo box

Las Positas College toasted San Jose City College 91-67    Shandan (Stagg High) Fields paced the Jaguars with 25 points. A 50-31 second half opened up the matchup. SJCC box

Benny (Lodi High) Simi led with 16 points and teammate Tom (Chavez High) Williams was credited with 15 points plus 10 assists in Modesto Junior College’s 73-69 victory over Sacramento City College. Greg (Cosumnes Oaks High) Milton’s 22 points paced Sac City and Kyle (Rodriguez High) Williams was right behind with 21. full box

At home, Diablo Valley College knocked off Santa Rosa Junior College 73-69 in overtime. For SRJC, Skylar (Drake High) Chavez totaled 19 points, five boards and four blocked shots.

Gavilan College bested visiting DeAnza College 70-60 powered by five Rams scoring in double figures. Ajay (Cupertino High) Singh finished with 27 points plus 11 boards. full box

“Noland Nets 21, Vikings Cage Panthers 85-77 to Stay Unbeaten in the Coast” West Valley athletics

“Making Sense Of Why San Jose State Never Called Eric Musselman” Eli Boettger

Don’t miss this one.

“Kenny Wooten returned earlier than expected for Oregon Ducks basketball” Steve Mims

“He’s played against some of the top players. MC freshman Devin Day is unfazed” Julian A. Lopez

“Mitty defends home court vs. Serra Marcus Greene drains game-winning 3-pointer with 32 seconds left to keep Monarchs in second place in WCAL” Vytas Mazeika

“Riordan picks up pace, beats Bellarmine  Crusaders reach midway point of WCAL schedule alone in first place” Darren Sabedra  Additional games/scores are contained in the article.

“Riordan uses role reversal to snap Bellarmine’s home win streak, leads WCAL at halfway mark” Ethan Kassel

“James Logan holds off shorthanded Moreau  Colts build huge first-quarter advantage and weather storm down the stretch in MVAL clash” Darren Sabedra

From Thursday: “WCAL: Bellarmine wins at Serra yet again, Riordan alone in first place” Ethan Kassel”

THURSDAY

Isiah (Placer High) Pineiro posted a 14 point, 12 rebound double-double in San Diego’s 76-55 victory over host Portland.

Eddie (Archbishop Riordan/CCSF) Stansberry provided 25 points in visiting Hawaii’s 84-70 triumph versus Cal State Northridge.

Behind 35 points from Josh (Sierra High) Patton (including the game-winning shot), Sacramento State edged host Northern Arizona 66-64. Patton also provided 11 rebounds.

Stokley (Amador Valley High/Las Positas College) Chaffee II led with both 13 points and eight boards as Tennessee State handled host Tennessee Tech 79-62.

Ant (San Lorenzo High/Cañada College) Navarette’s team-high 23 points and seven boards powered Cal State East Bay to an 88-78 success against Humboldt State in Hayward.

Sam (Vacaville High) Gabbard played extra large — 31 points, 13 rebounds — in the UC Santa Cruz 101-67 defeat of Bethesda.

From Wednesday: “No. 14 state-ranked Cabrillo looking for answers after loss to No. 7 Gavilan” Jim Seimas

Last Saturday, Luke (Drake High/College of Marin) Chavez paced St. Martin’s with 25 points in a victory over Alaska Fairbanks. He shot 10-15 overall, 5-10 from long distance.

“James Nunnally says he turned down a ‘great EuroLeague situation’ as the Rockets called him” Nicola Lupo

Nunnally is out of Weston Ranch High and UC Santa Barbara.

Cal-Hi Sports Northern California
Boys Basketball Player of the Week
Dailen Victor
(Chavez, Stockton) Sr.

“MaxPreps NorCal Top 20 high school boys basketball rankings
Salesian, Sheldon separate themselves as tops in Northern California” Joe Davidson

From the Northwest Conference: “Men’s Basketball Student-Athlete of the Week – Joey Hewitt, Whitman (Sr., G)

Hewitt (Acalanes High) guided his team to a 3-0 week, all on the road against previously undefeated teams entering the week. The senior recorded double figures in points in all three games including a 21-point effort at George Fox.”

From Nate Smith, Prep2Prep: “Trailing by one point at the half, and coming off its first BVAL loss since 2017, visiting Heritage turned up the defensive pressure and moved the ball well on offense, surging past Freedom for the 62-48 victory on Tuesday night.

Standout point guard Ezra Manjon finished with a game-high 32 points…”

From Mike Lefkow, Bay Area Preps: “Junior guard Jaden Saunders swished three of his seven 3-pointers in those first eight minutes and scored 27 points overall as Dublin (15-2, 4-1 East Bay Athletic League) rolled to an 83-59 victory )over Amador Valley). The Gaels had 13 3-pointers in all…”

Rob Toste: “6’8 2019 @nate_karren23 has a great feel and elite shooting ability. Knocked down four straight 3s this weekend in a 33 point effort.”

A West Campus High graduate, Karren is attending Pomfret School in Connecticut this season.

WEDNESDAY

Jonathan Galloway grabbed 14 rebounds and scored nine points but UC Irvine fell 80-70 to Long Beach State.

Behind 24 points from Michael (West High) Hayes and 15 assists via John Ketchel, Las Positas College defeated Chabot College 86-75 in Hayward. The Hawks earned a remarkable 25 assists on 36 baskets. Jabari (Sacramento High) Sweet led CC with both 23 points and seven boards. full box

Ethan (Madera High) Richardson exploded for 32 points and 12 boards while teammate Georgie (Beyer High) Dancer provided 16 points, four rebounds, four assists and four steals in Fresno City College’s 72-61 victory over visiting Columbia College. FCC box

In a showdown of top Coast South teams, it was visiting Gavilan College by 10, 74-64, over Cabrillo College. The Ram starting five each scored in double figures while the Seahawks were led by Trey (Harbor High) Whitley who provided both 30 points and six assists. full box

Noah (Corning High) Zoppi paced Butte College with 21 points as the Roadrunners topped host College of the Siskiyous 62-45. Butte box

Patrick Washington totaled 28 points and teammate Julian (Oakland High) Taylor 25 as visiting College of Alameda bested Solano College 71-66. full box

Yuba College 75, Napa Valley College 54 “The 49ers basketball team was able to come away with a solid road victory on Wednesday despite going down early.

“They jumped on us and went up 14-2 early, luckily our defense woke up and we were able to get back in the game by holding them to six points in 16 minutes,” said 49ers head coach Doug Cornelius.

Leading the way for Yuba in the win was Cornell Greenwood with 26 points, nine rebounds and five assists. Also contributing were Isaiah Bates with 13 points and Stevie James with eight points…”

“Funk Buckets Fuel West Valley Win Over Lobos”

TUESDAY

Skylar (Drake High) Chavez scored 43 points (seven treys) as host Santa Rosa Junior College bested American River College 83-74. SRJC box

Spencer (Lodi High) Monteiro produced a 23 point, 11 rebound double-double in host San Joaquin Delta College’s 84-71 victory over Diablo Valley College. SJDC box

Despite receiving 20 points and 14 rebounds from Paul (Elk Grove High) Ohiri and 20 plus 12 via Marcus (Monterey Trail High) Robinson, Cosumnes River College fell to visiting Sierra College 86-79. full box

“Crusaders hold off late St. Mary’s rally” Thomas Lawrence

Modesto Christian 89, St. Mary’s 80 on Monday.

“Iowa State’s Solomon Young to seek medical redshirt, out for the season” Tommy Birch

Young is out of Sacramento High.

Good news. After being sidelined with yet another injury, 6-foot-4 Crisshawn (Cañada College) Clark is back on the court for the Portland Pilots.

Jeff Goodman: “Santa Clara guard KJ Feagin is transferring, source told @WatchStadium. Averaged 17.5 points and 4 assists per game last season. Broke thumb and has played just two games this year. Potential grad transfer. If that’s the case, look for high-majors to be all over him”

Evan Daniels: “Source: KJ Feagin & Matthew Hauser are expected to transfer from Santa Clara. Feagin averaged 17.5 PPG during 2017-2018 season. Hauser went for 9.6 PPG that year.”

“What the heck is going on at Santa Clara?” Jeff Faraudo

“For Eric and Michael Musselman, a season they’ll never forget” Chris Murray

Crush in the Valley Basketball Showcase

Saturday January 26th – Sunday January 27th
Solano College
4000 Suisun Valley Rd.
Fairfield, CA 94534

Co-Hosted by Salesian College Preparatory and NextMax Inc.

Saturday January 26th, 2019 games

8:30pm Salesian HS (CA) vs. Clark High School (NV)

7pm Prolific Prep of Napa Christian (CA) vs. Bella Vista College Prep (AZ)

5:30pm Bishop O’Dowd HS (CA) vs. Coronado HS (NV)

4pm Sacramento HS (CA) vs. St. Joseph’s HS (CA)

2:30pm Marshall County HS (KY) vs. St. Pat’s St. Vincent HS (CA)

1pm Stuart Hall HS (CA) vs. Vanden HS (CA)

11:30am Antelope HS (CA) vs. Berkeley HS (CA)

10am Balboa City School vs. Trinity Prep (NV)

8am Golden State Prep (CA) vs. Hillcrest Prep North (AZ)

Hosted by NextMax Inc.

Sunday January 27th, 2019 games

3pm Hillcrest Prep North (AZ) vs. Prolific Prep of Napa Christian (CA)

1pm Bella Vista College Prep (AZ) vs. Balboa City School (CA)

11am Trinity Prep (NV) vs. Golden State Prep (CA)

“PAC WEST FRESHMAN OF THE WEEK
Cameron Fini, Holy Names
F, Fr., 6-8 — Saratoga, Calif.
Fini set new career highs in scoring twice last week as Holy Names won two of three games to improve to 6-10 on the season. The freshman scored 12 points on 5-of-6 shooting against Chaminade to set a new career high in points. He then crushed that for a new career-high against Biola with 21 points, making 7 of 10 shots, including 5 of 7 from beyond the arc.”

6-foot-10 Marcus (Castro Valley High) Hopkins headed to a Florida prep school last season and is now playing at Palm Beach State College, also in the Sunshine State. His freshman numbers thus far: 3.7 rebounds, 2.7 points, 60% overall shooting, 57% at the foul line and seven blocked shots in 18 games. A 2017 feature.

“WCC Power Rankings: It’s Gonzaga’s league to lose, once again” Will Maupin

“John Crumpacker: What We Learned – Week Two of #WCChoops”

“Menlo boys basketball coach Larsen out until February 1” Glenn Reeves

“P2P NCS Boys Basketball Top 25”

Salesian remains on top.

“After A Peninsula Split, Chabot Set For Showdown With Las Positas
First-year Gladiators coach Keenan McMiller expects close, hard-fought game with Hawks” Matt Schwab

“Coach Lloyd Pierce: A Reputation For Successful Development” Kevin L. Chouinard

Pierce is the pride of Yerba Buena High and Santa Clara.

Gerry Freitas: “Nor Cal Spring Showcase is Sat-Sun March 30-31 at Soldiertown in Oakland & the new Cali Courts in Union City. Open to teams from hi school & AAU programs in all hi school grades(includes seniors). $495.00/team. 3 or more team discount. 2 games each day. gerryfreitas@hotmail.com”

From last Friday: “(Devante) Johnson Rejection Lifts Vikings to 88-85 Win At De Anza in Coast Opener” West Valley College athletics

A 6-foot-1 sophomore, Johnson finished with 31 points. full box

Read the following — it’s football rather than basketball-connected but much too sobering not to post here — to the tune of Cat Stevens’ “Father & Son” although the latter is actually much too mild for the hell Todd Marinovich and family endured:

“TODD MARINOVICH IS LEARNING TO BE HUMAN AGAIN
He was “the test-tube QB” the first half of his life, a drug addict since. Closing in on 50, the former USC and Raiders quarterback is struggling to come to terms with his raging beast of a father—and the big lie that he only now can share” Michael Rosenberg

“THROUGH THE RED DOOR, BY CARSON MEDLEY” John McCarthy, Small College Basketball

Jeff Goodman: “UC Riverside has landed Washington State transfer Arinze Chidom, he tells @WatchStadium. Chidom is a 6-foot-9 sophomore.”

Chidom is out of Bishop O’Dowd. Former St. Mary’s assistant David Patrick is in his first year as the head coach at UC Riverside.

SATURDAY

Host Frankie and the Dons came close but Gonzaga had too much firepower and grabbed a 96-83 victory despite Ferrari’s 21 points. He posted just four assists which is actually attributable to his having to pick up the scoring slack plus the lack of sharpshooters on the USF roster. The score was 37 apiece after 20 minutes and the Dons actually took small leads late into the game.

Sayeed (El Cerrito High) Pridgett exploded for 29 points in Montana’s 88-64 success against Northern Colorado. He shot 11-13, 4-4 and 3-5.

Jordan (Folsom High) Ford scored 18 points (with just 10 shots) and dished out five assists as St. Mary’s topped Loyola Marymount 71-60.

Zach (Capital Christian High) Chappell provided 12 points, a team high seven assists, three boards and two steals but San Jose State University fell to host Boise State 87-64.

In just 17 minutes (limited due to foul trouble), Stokley (Amador Valley High/Las Positas College) Chaffee produced nine rebounds and four blocked shots but Tennessee State fell 74-61 to Morehead State.

Terrell (Moreau Catholic High) Brown’s team-high 19 points (plus eight rebounds) helped New Mexico State power past CSU Bakersfield 73-62.

Pepperdine felled San Diego 76-71 despite the Toreros receiving a team-high 19 points and five boards from Isaiah (Placer High) Pineiro plus a team-best six assists alongside nine points and four boards from redshirt freshman Joey (Marin Catholic High) Calcaterra.

Jase (Wilcox High) Wyckliffe totaled 18 points as well as seven boards — both figures tops on his team — in San Francisco State’s 76-65 victory over host Sonoma State.

Five players scored in double figures (Nate Ambrosini 16, Malik Duffy 16, Isaiah Brooks 15 and 11 assists, Calvin Geraci 12, Kevin Warren 11) for Chico State but the Wildcats fell in overtime 92-90 to visiting Cal State Los Angeles.

In the UC San Diego 87-70 victory over host Stanislaus State, Christian Bayne scored 26 points and teammate Tyrell (Woodcreek High) Roberts tallied 22 points plus five assists for the victors. Bayne played his first two years at Stanislaus.

Cal State East Bay took on host Cal State San Bernardino and grabbed an 82-79 win behind 23 points from Evan (Santa Clara) Wardlow, 16 from Nai (San Jose State University) Carlisle plus 15 points and eight assists via Juwan (Bishop O’Dowd) Anderson.

Liam (Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep) O’Reilly tallied 27 points but Linfield College still fell to Whitworth College 78-75.

Ethan (Madera High) Richardson and Jared Small each scored 23 points in host Fresno City College’s 80-62 victory over Cerro Coso College. Richardson also grabbed 20 rebounds for a double/double/double FCC box

FRIDAY

Behind 21 points, 12 boards and five assists from Sam (Vacaville High) Gabbard, UC Santa Cruz defeated Cal Miramar 95-59.

With Skylar (Drake High) Chavez providing 34 points, Santa Rosa Junior College handled visiting Sierra College 95-78. Teammate Nick Cole was uber accurate with his 19 points on 5-7, 4-4, 5-5 shooting. SRJC box

With 32 points, seven rebounds and five assists, freshman Michael (West High) Hayes again led the way in host Las Positas College’s 89-72 victory over Ohlone College. LPC box

Visiting City College of San Francisco bested Cañada College 82-69 as Deschon Winston led the victors with 22 points. CCSF box

Ajay (Cupertino High) Singh finished with 28 points plus 11 boards and teammate Darrien (West Campus High) Davis contributed 21 points but host DeAnza College fell 88-85 to West Valley College. full box

In the Los Medanos College 80-70 success versus host College of Alameda, 6-foot-3 freshman Julian (Oakland High) Taylor led the latter with both 24 points and 12 rebounds. CoA box

Cabrillo College took care of host Hartnell College 69-46 as Trey (Harbor High) Whitley scored 19 points and teammate Yeskin Williams posted a 19 point, 12 rebound, five assist double-double.  Cabrillo box

Foothill College turned back Chabot College 66-53 via a strong initial 44-22 20 minutes of play. Chabot box

Sophomore Lance (St. Mary’s High) Coleman stuffed the stat sheet — 22 points, nine rebounds and five assists as Fullerton College bopped Irvine Valley College 70-53. full box

“USF basketball revival stirs storied Hilltop memories” Bruce Jenkins

“LBSU’s Temidayo Yussuf grows into a top basketball talent” Bob Keisser

“Las Positas Men Set For Coast-North Opener
Coach James Giacomazzi looking for a bit more consistency from his 11-3 squad which boasts freshman Michael Hayes, soph. John Ketchel” Matt Schwab

Chabot Men Looking for Winning Edge
Under first-year coach Keenan McMiller, young Gladiators will open play in tough Coast-North this week” Matt Schwab

“Ohlone Men Look To Put Best Foot Forward In Coast-North” Matt Schwab

“Santa Rosa Junior College men’s basketball team aiming high” Kerry Benefield

“A natural connection bonds Paly boys” Rick Eymer

“Bears stage a comeback to earn PAL boys basketball win” Glenn Reeves (Menlo-Atherton 65, Carlmont 62)

“Atherton the center of attention as SHP, M-A win thrillers” Ethan Kassel

“Stuart Hall escapes Lick-Wilmerding” Ethan Kassel

Mitch Stephens: “Nation’s No. 15 ranked team Salesian improves to 18-0 with 60-39 win at St. Patrick-St. Vincent. Freshman Austin Johnson, the @NorCalSportsTV Player of the Game, had 11 points and 3 steals.”

Continuing in our series on community college teams: Up Rancho Las Positas way, going big or going small doesn’t seem to make any difference for Coach James Giacomazzi who continues being successful with whatever degree of size he has on his roster in a given year. Last season, 6-foot-9 Anand Hundal and 6-foot-10 Peter Hewitt, both eventual D1 transfers, were critical to the success of the Hawks. In 2018-19, it’s solid guard play and the feats of wunderkind 6-foot-4 freshman Michael Hayes primarily carrying the team.

Where do the Hawks currently stand?

In 15 games, LPC currently sports a 12-3 record with a 60-46 victory November 10 road win over Cabrillo College being the standout success. In a tournament at Skyline College, Gavilan College took down the Hawks 90-82. Note: CCSF comes to Livermore on January 23 and Las Positas hits The City on February 15.

Other numbers:

Las Positas is shooting 51% overall thus far, a terrific number for a smallish team, versus 43% for opponents. 33% from long distance to 29% plus 83.4 points per game against 73.4 allowed. Again despite lacking size, the Hawks are earning a very solid just 25.9 free throw attempts a night (against 18.9) as well as possessing a 12.3+ rebound margin.

The primary contributors:

The aforementioned Hayes has stepped right in from the high school ranks and adjusted quickly averaging 23.6 points (third in the state), 9.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.0 steals while shooting 61%, 23% and 70% (7.3 free throw attempts per contest). At 6-foot-4, his long distance accuracy needs bettering for the next level. 6-foot-5 sophomore Alafia Oluwosogo is at 12.2 points plus 5.7 boards. 5-foot-10 sophomore guard John Ketchel is the final player scoring in double figures at 10.8 points.

Five other Hawks are providing 7.0 points or higher on a nightly basis. In total, four are contributing 3.0 assists or more with Ketchel in the lead at a state best 7.1 and a quartet of LPC talents are bringing down at least 3.5 boards nightly.

Hayes and three sophomores, Nana Appiah, Ketchel, Oluwosogo, are the primary starters.

Surface analysis:

Theoretically, Las Positas should not be doing as well in both its overall record or statistics simply due to the absence of size. However, no program in the northern California community college ranks possesses overwhelming size this season but, more importantly, the Hawks are playing unselfishly and with a willingness to be led by a frosh plus Ketchel at the point. Credit Giacomazzi, Associate Head Coach Jordan Whittenburg and Assistant Coach Spencer Wood as well as the players for this LPC success so far. 

The LPC roster: (note that each is from northern California)

• Decaurey Brown G 6’0 160 Fr Oakland CA / Newark Memorial HS
• Alvon Marshall G 6’0 180 So Oakland CA / San Leandro HS
• Goose Persin G 6’0 180 So San Jose CA / Piedmont Hills HS
• John Ketchel G 6’1 175 So Discovery Bay CA / Freedom HS
• Tyler Langowski G 5’10 160 Fr Livermore CA / Livermore HS
• Marc Starling G 6’3 185 Fr Tracy CA / Tracy HS
• Nana Appiah G 6’5 200 So Patterson CA / Patterson HS
• Michael Hayes G 6’4 200 Fr Tracy CA / West HS
• Alafia Oluwosogo F 6’5 210 So Fremont CA / American HS
• Wesley Burse F 6’5 190 Fr Modesto CA / Enochs HS
• Elan Spencer F 6’10 220 So Stockton CA / Lincoln HS

THURSDAY

Sayeed (El Cerrito High) Pridgett filled the stat sheet with 16 points, nine rebounds, three steals and two assists but Montana fell 78-71 to host Eastern Washington. The latter was led by Jesse (Drake High) Hunt’s 15 boards.

Powered by six players scoring in double figures, Chico State downed visiting Cal State Dominguez Hills 87-67. Isaiah (Sheldon High) Brooks led with 18, Justin (River City High) Briggs enjoyed 15, Nate (Fortuna High) Ambrosini and Calvin (San Marin High) Geraci both tallied 14, Spencer (Monte Vista High) LaShells had 11 and Kevin Warren contributed 10. Andrew (Hamilton High/Butte College) Whitsett led DH with 17 points.

Justin (Buchanan High) Everett shot 6-10 from the floor and 9-9 at the foul line in leading Humboldt State to an 84-76 win over visiting Cal State Los Angeles.

Juwan (Bishop O’Dowd) Anderson scored 18 points but Cal State East Bay fell to Cal Poly Pomona 68-56 down in the Southland.

WEDNESDAY

Hawaii hosted and turned away Cal State Fullerton 79-68 with Eddie (Archbishop Riordan) Stansberry providing 16 points, five rebounds and three steals.

Fresno State nabbed a 78-77 road win over Utah State as Noah (Woodcreek High) Blackwell accounting for 13 points, six assists, four rebounds and three steals.

A 60-27 Fresno City College second half carried the Rams to a 102-57 victory over host West Hills Coalinga as Jared Small led the victors in scoring with 18 points. He also provided five rebounds, five assists and four steals. full box

Powered in part by a 54-29 initial half, host City College San Francisco belted Skyline College 96-61. Deschon Winston led the Rams with 22 points followed by Niamey (Mission High) Harris’ 18. CCSF box

Host Gavilan College had little trouble versus Hartnell College to the tune of 83-55 as DJ (Valley Christian) Burgess led the way with 23 points. Gavilan box

With Michael Hayes and Alafia Oluwosogo each posting 23 point, nine rebound lines, visiting Las Positas College defeated Foothill College 73-65. LPC box

Trey (Harbor High) Whitley’s 19 points paced Cabrillo College to a 72-47 defeat of host San Jose City College.

A 51-36 second 20 minutes carried visiting Chabot College to a 75-67 success over Cañada College as Jabari (Sacramento High) Sweet led the winners with 21 points (plus eight boards and three blocks) while teammate Jordan (James Logan High) McGlory posted a 16/17 scoring/rebounding double-double. Chabot box

American River College 105 – LJ Smith 40, Tom Edwards 30, Parker Haven 17, Jermaine Henderson 12, Pim Lewis 6

Modesto Junior College 100 – Isaiah Harris 25, Benny Simi 17, Justin Watkins 16, Tommy Williams 11, Brandon Lamb 9, Isaac Starks 8, Carson Anderson 8, Austin Denham 4, Kharyem Mitchell 2

3-Pt. Goals: American 12 (Smith 6, Edwards 5, Henderson), Modesto 11 (Watkins 3, Lamb 3, Starks 2, Simi 2, Williams)

“Bishop O’Dowd edges San Leandro  Iniko McNeil sinks second straight game-winner for the Dragons” Phil Jensen

Verbal Commits: “2019 Long Beach Poly (CA) G Giordan Williams has committed to Santa Clara.” commitment link

A shooting guard, Williams stands 6-foot-3. A Williams article from June 2018.

Raymond Hawkins: “Blessed To Receive An Offer From The University Of Arkansas #GoRazorbacks #SEC All For You Pops”

The 6-foot-9 Hawkins is at Findlay Prep for his senior season.

“Stephen Curry Launches High School Basketball Tour For Overlooked Prospects” Kurt Badenhausen

“De La Salle’s fourth quarter turns back Dougherty Valley” Scott Giorgianni

“De La Salle too big for Dougherty Valley
De La Salle uses its size advantage to pull away in the fourth quarter” Mike Lefkow

“Mitty awakens just in time, stuns Bellarmine
Monarchs score final 18 points to win West Catholic Athletic League matchup” Darren Sabedra

“Bruce-Mahoney Game: Begovich and Robinson lead SI to victory” Ethan Kassell