2008-09 Varsity Team
Season Outlook
Having graduated six players from last year's team, the 2009-2010 squad features five returning players and five new-comers. This year's team will feature an improved inside scoring presence with three player's over 6'5", along with better 3-point shooting.
5’10” Senior point guard Bryant Koopmans returns for his third season on Varsity. One of the team's best free throw shooters, Bryant has also shown the ability to hit the three-ball. His 17-point performance against Santa Barbara last season caused many to stand and take notice. Look for Bryant to initiate the offense, break opposing team's presses, spread the court with his shooting ability and play some of the best help defense on the team.
6'6" Senior center Josh Guild returns with a valuable year of experience on Varsity. Josh played solid on-ball defense last year and made post scoring difficult on our opponents. Josh has battled ankle injuries but worked hard to become stronger and faster. His rebounding has improved as has his help defense. Look for Josh to be more aggressive offensively, run the court in transition, lead the team in blocked shots and rebound physically.
5'11" Senior shooting guard Ryley Johnson is a second year Varsity lettermen. Ryley is the team's best help defender, capable of taking a charge and rotating to the correct player on penetration and double teams. Look for Ryley to shoot the open jumper and lead the team with his strong communication skills on the court.
6'6" Senior forward Matt Welsh was a dominant defensive force on the JV team last year. Having improved his vertical leap nearly 10 inches, look for Matt to be aggressive around the rim and rebound physically. Matt is a smart player, able to play both the 4 and 5, and is a capable of shooting the ball up to 15 feet.
6'3" Senior Benny Kirkwood is the team's best athlete. Having played on the Varsity football team the past two seasons, Benny has developed an impressive work ethic and leadership skills. Able to defend any position, Benny will be called upon to apply pressure on the wing and play physical defense inside. Look for Benny to be among the team leaders in blocked shots and rebounds.
6'0" Junior swingman JP Dodson is an aggressively minded offensive player. He instinctively hunts the paint and is adept at getting defenders in the air and drawing fouls. He has improved his shooting ability both from mid-range and at the free throw line. Look for JP play some at the point this season as well.
6'5" Junior center Christian Mkpado is the lone returning All Channel League player. Christian thrives on contact and physical play and finishes well around the basket. Look for Christian to draw fouls and get to the free-throw line, be one of the leading rebounders, and for him to be more aggressive around the basket.
6'2" Junior wing Johnny Manzo was the leading scorer on the JV team last season. Adept and penetrating and finishing with balance, Johnny has worked hard to improve his defense and quickness. Blessed with long arms and big hands, Johnny rebounds well for his size and is not afraid to be physical on both ends of the court. Johnny was awarded the Phil Womble Ethics in Sports Award by the Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table for his character and sportsmanlike behavior on the court.
6'3" Sophomore wing Thayer White was the leading scorer on the Freshmen team last year. Able to play the 3 through 5 spots, Thayer brings versatility, competitiveness, great post moves and much-needed leadership to the team. Thayer has worked hard to improve his outside shot and look for it to pay dividends for the team at the free throw line and from distance.
6'1" Sophomore shooting guard Chad Ridenour shot over 50% from 3-point range last season and brings a much needed ability to score to the Varsity team. Able to shoot from NBA range, hit the mid-range jumper and penetrate, Chad has worked hard on his all around game. Look for Chad to be one of the team's leading scorers and rank high in steals.