Jermaine Washington Jr. Knows His Way to San Jose State

San Jose State University starting point Alvaro Cardenas is entering his junior year in the upcoming 2023-24 season. 6-foot-1, 185 Jermaine Washington Sr. is entering his senior season at Rancho Verde High in Moreno Valley, part of the Inland Empire and he has committed to sign with the Spartans in early November. This provides Washington Jr. a season to adjust from the prep to college ranks before he will presumably move into the starting role, presumably the plan in the mind of SJSU Coach Tim Miles.

A couple of weeks back, he came to the Spartan campus on an official visit. What was his itinerary? "We toured the campus, scrimmaged with the team (on the same team as Cardenas), went bowling (no word as to who is the top kegler on the team) and visited the Black Leadership and Opportunity Center, B.L.O.C. in the Student Union Building."

Why his call for San Jose State University? "I felt I fit in and that they wanted me there." Washington Jr. participated in the CaliLive games (a tournament taking place in early July) and caught the attention of Spartan Assistant Coach Ed Gipson who initially pursued the young man before Head Coach Tim Miles closed the deal.

"I play mostly at the point," Washington Jr. explained, adding that "my best skills are my shooting and my hoops IQ." The expansion of his skills repertoire was aided by his choice of opponents as a youngster. "I continually played against guys who were three to four years older and that forced me to get better if I wanted to play."

6-foot-8 Johnny Dukes is in his third year as the head coach at Rancho Verde High. If his name sounds familiar, he played at USF as a 6-foot-8 forward, earning his B.A. in 2007 before graduating later with an M.A. from Cal Baptist University and also playing professionally overseas.

"Jermaine was a starter as a sophomore but quiet," Dukes said. But Washington Jr. explained, "now I'm more vocal and a captain.". 

Dukes continued, "I've seen tremendous growth in him. He is a great penetrator and his explosive speed is unbelievable. He is a freak athlete. I've coached a total of 10 D1 players and he's the fastest. Jermaine can stop on a dime but also go in and throw one down. He has also had so many buzzer beaters at the end of quarters and games for us. Defensively, he's a nightmare, being great with on-the-ball plays. He shot 40% on threes as a junior and plays hard and fast. I think he will do well and believe he is under-recruited."

Another reason Dukes feel his protege will do well is "because we run our program like colleges do, with study hall, weightlifting and conditioning."

He added, "Jermaine took one visit and committed. I felt the signing is the result of greater effort on San Jose State's part."

Washington Jr. owns a 3.5 grade point average and is looking to major in kinesiology or business.

Potpourri, Sep 29

John Bynum Jr.: "6-4 Devon Malcolm (Yuba) is another NorCal prospect that will get attention from four year coaches. His athletic ability is off the charts and the sophomore is coming off a standout freshman season averaging 14.7 points and 7.3 rebounds last season."

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John Bynum Jr.: "6-7 Parker Hunt (Monterey) is an intriguing Big that should have a standout season.Can score with his back to the basket, great passer from the post and a great feel w/ patience. Hunt averaged 14.4 points and 10.0 rebounds in the 21-22 season & was 3rd in the state in blocks."

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After injury last season, 5-foot-7 Dayton Magana is back for another go-around with San Joaquin Delta College. He was the 2022 Big 8 Conference Most Valuable Player and his play earned him a spot on the 2022 All State team.

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Two solid features on Tyler Thompson.

"Vanden's Tyler Thompson announces commitment to Montana basketball program"

and

"Montana Grizzlies land 4-star guard Tyler Thompson to launch 2024 recruiting class"

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Aaron Burgin: "Pangos F/S Camp notes: "6-4 2026 G Elias Obenyah (Salesian Prep, CA) has established himself over the past few months as one of the top guards in Cali’s ridiculously deep 2026 class, and his performance here showed why. Super efficient scoring guard with measurables & pace."

and

Justin Young: "We saw it all summer from 2026 PG Elias Obenyah and we are seeing it today here at the FCP Pangos All-West FR/SO Camp - young man knows how to control an offense. Always in control, right play, right time kind of lead guard. Big season ahead at Bay Area Salesian Prep."

and

Dinos Trigonis: "Pangos All-West Fr/So Camp Notes: 6-4 2026 Elias Obenyah (Salesian/Richmond CA) is again making a strong case for being NorCal's #1 2026 G prospect. Great frame, very nice skill set & IQ & impressive character make him an attractive HM prospect. Had 24 pts in a Sat camp game."

and

Ronnie Flores: "...6-foot-4 2026 combo guard Elias Obenyah, was his team's high scorer with 23 points and nine rebounds. Obenyah is a Salesian (Richmond, Calif.) product who followed up terrific performances at Cali Live and Section 7 during the June Scholastic Live Period with a strong performance that displayed some marked improvement in his offensive game. Obenyah's nose for the ball around the rim and knack for playing under control has put him in the conversation as the top 2026 prospect among NorCal players that play at California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) programs.

"In this environment I can show more variety in scoring and be more creative offensively," said Obenyah, who will look at a variety of high academic programs before he makes a college commitment. "My mid-range and 3-point shot is what I'm working to improve on. I want to get to the point where I'm like a Jabari Bird or James Akinjo (former Salesian standouts) where it doesn't matter where I play, that people know my skill level and what I can do." 

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Aaron Burgin: "Pangos F/S Camp notes: 5-8 ‘26 G McKae Amundsen (Clovis North) was flat-out electric in a camp win on Court 2. Multi level scorer can hunt shots at times, but his ability to get to his spots is uncanny for a guy his size. Collected steals by the fistful."

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Team Rampage Basketball: "Ahmari Otis (2026) on his UNOFFICIAL visit to Point Loma University 🔥🔥🔥The future is bright and the sky is the limit for this kid out of Richmond, CA! Hard work, good character, and dedication can change your life."

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Jake Lieberman: "2025 6'4 guard Chris Davis Jr. tells me that he is now receiving interest from UIC, UC Davis & Green Bay..."

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From: "San Diego State Basketball: Projected starting lineup and depth chart for 2023-24:"

Point Guard Starter – Darrion Trammell (30 mpg)

Darrion Trammell is the first returning name from last year’s Final Four squad looking to make his mark once again as he closes out his college basketball career. He made quite the splash in his debut season for the Aztecs, finishing with 9.8 ppg, 2.9 apg, 2.4 rpg and 1.3 spg on 31.4 percent shooting from deep in 2022-23. He finished second on the team in assists (112) and finished ninth in the conference in defensive rating (97.6).

Without Matt Bradley on the attack, he’ll be looked upon to do a whole lot more at the lead guard role. His continued development as a two-way presence will be looked upon to handle some of the point guard responsibilities though one big strength of the Aztecs is a three-guard rotation.

and

Bench – B.J. Davis (10 mpg)

"B.J. Davis is quite the impactful guard who should see minutes at the backup floor general spot fresh out of high school. He attended Modesto Christian High (CA) this past year where he produced 18.4 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 4.4 apg and 1.9 spg on 56 percent shooting from the field and 46 percent from deep. He’s got the potential to make an early splash in their perimeter and playmaking attack in the backcourt in Year 1."

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John Bynum Jr.: "6-3 Noah Thomas (Chabot) showing off his range against Riverside at the jamboree. Thomas is expected to have a standout season for the Chabot Gladiators."

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Adrian Wojnarowski:"Free agent F Rudy Gay has agreed on a one-year deal with the Golden State Warriors, Sam Permut of @RocNationSports tells ESPN. Gay will compete for team’s open roster spot in camp. This will be his 18th NBA season."

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MiamiHEAT: "OFFICIAL: The Miami HEAT have waived Jamaree Bouyea and Caleb Daniels and signed Jon Elmore and Cheick Diallo. Following those roster moves, the HEAT waived Elmore and signed RJ Hampton to a Two-Way Contract."

WOW on dismissing Bouyea. 

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"Blazers deal Damian Lillard to Bucks in blockbuster 3-team deal"

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McKae Amundsen Follows His Family Tradition

2026 Clovis North guard McKae Amundsen stands 5-foot-8 but as some guy named Twain once wrote about another species, "it's not the size of dog in the fight but the size of the fight in the dog." Simply put, Amundsen positively effects the games in which he is participating to such a greater degree versus most of his larger backcourt opponents. Plus, being the son of a heralded coach, he has worked to develop a now innate court sense seen so often in sons of coaches -- that being correctly utilizing the right moves on the court at the right moments. 

Plus, in a demonstration of his competitive fire, Amundsen was recently honored as the Top Defender in the Central Cali Prospects Next Up Top 30 Showcase. He was selected to the Top 60 All-Star Game this past weekend in the Pangos All-West Frosh-Soph Camp as well as honored as one of the Most Outstanding Players by scoring 16 points in the game. Longtime southern California talent evaluator Frank Burlison named McKae as one of his Top 20 Performers after witnessing the event. 

The so-called golden apples, haven't fallen far from the tree for McKae and his older brother Connor.

Those Genes

His father, Clovis North High Head Coach Tony Amundsen, spent a year as a redshirt bettering his game after initially not being wanted by the head coach at Chabot College. The next year during his freshman season, he averaged 22.5 points per game, 13th in the state, earning all-state honors. The elder Amundsen then boosted his scoring to 22.9 points per game as a sophomore, earning Northern California Player of the Year honors for his outstanding play with the Gladiators. His scoring total of 1,498 points places him as Chabot's all-time leading scorer. He then moved up to play for Pacific Coach Bob Thomason, earning all-conference honors his senior season. After three years of playing overseas, Amundsen returned home to begin a long-lasting coaching career primarily at the high school level and ultimately became enshrined in the California Community Colleges Men's Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame. Being named the 2012 Division I California State Coach of the Year while helming the Bullard High program is yet another honor he earned.

So why basketball for the youngest Amundsen? "I grew up in a basketball family but our Dad never forced anything. I wanted to be like him." Blessed with the motivation to compete, all the males in the family still have a go at each other every so often on the court. "I played one-on-one with my Dad about six months ago. He doesn't move as well as he used to but he can still shoot the ball." 

Additionally, McKae's mother didn't play long in the basketball ranks but she received an award for "Most Aggressive Player" on her fifth grade team.

Best Hoops Skills

Asked to detail his best basketball skills, McKae offered, "definitely my ballhandling, passing and shooting plus a pretty good basketball IQ. Connor and my Dad have really helped me a lot."

Besides his brother and father being important influences, McKae also cited Kyrie Irving and Steph Curry as NBA talents he enjoys watching. Regarding the latter, "his reads off screens are amazing, he tears apart defenses."

As area scout Paul Hernandez wrote after this summer, "Amundsen is a shifty guard who plays with a relentless motor and is a tough on-ball defender who makes life difficult for opposing guards. Despite the impressive play on offense, it was Amundsen's relentless pressure on opposing ballhandlers that stood out the most ... he was picking up guys full court and displayed great instincts and timing that led to countless steals and transition buckets..."

His favorite hoops moment came last year "in my first start because our point had an ankle sprain and was out. I played nice and hit a couple of threes late to help out." He also added, "beating arch rival Clovis West at home (a 68-66 nail biter) and winning league (the Tri-Rivers League)."

McKae is known for his clutch play. As Dinos Trigonis tweeted late last December, "5-7 2026 PG McKae Amundsen hit a 3 with 20.8 secs remaining to lift Clovis North/CA over Heritage Christian/CA 56-54" in the Classic at Damien tournament.

As for leadership, McKae explained, "I'm definitely a leader by example and by keeping guys on track. But we have lots of leaders on our team in Connor, Jordan (Espinoza), Lucas (Jones) and myself."

Also An Academic Ace

Amundsen also shines in the classroom, sporting a 3.9 grade point average plus a recent Scholar Athlete award. "I try as hard as I can but I wish I could be better." His method of time management considering how much of his time is also spent in the gym is "to get stuff done right away." McKae is looking at majoring in kinesiology or something involving mathematics.

So what is he seeking in a college and basketball program? "I want a coach who keeps his guys accountable, who leads by example and offers a winning culture." McKae eschews any geographical restrictions, simply "looking for the best situation for me."

There is no rivalry or friction playing alongside his brother (who is two steps ahead in eligibility). My sense about him is he will always make the right play and that's how I position myself on the court."

McKae is one of those athletes who sets goals for himself (and his team) prior to each season. "In fact, I'm writing them out right now. I want to finish in the Pangos Top 20, win the Border League, be named a Top Performer in the Valley Children’s tourney, win championships at the Mission Prep and Damien Tournaments, finish with over 20 wins, be ranked in Paul Hernandez' list of Top 5 players, receive an offer by the end of summer and win League, Section and State."

The odds are in McKae's favor considering the entire Amundsen family has a lengthy history of goals becoming accomplishments.

Potpourri, Sep 27

"This Montana college town ranks No. 1 as the most fun city for young people—what it’s like to live there"

A college coaching staff couldn't ask for more and CNBC provides it for free!!! The copy machines are being worked overtime tonight in Coach Travis DeCuire's office.

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"Why NBA players keep flocking to a hot gym at UCLA: Inside the Rico Hines runs"

Fun to read article.

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Brandon Cole: "I have no idea how they will do this year but one thing I know is Coach David Patrick has been honest and upfront since he took over Sac State. So I know that his players will run through a wall for him because of that, and that usually leads to winning."

Patrick is a guy you always want to pull for. Here's hoping the Hornets win the Big West Conference so then the powers-that-be will build a new hoops facility.

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Prep Hoops Oregon: News: Head Coach Jamarr Lawson informs us that Terrence Hill Jr. (out of Portland) will announce his college commitment on September 22 at 4 p.m. at the school gym.

His final 5 (in alphabetical order): New Mexico, Oregon State, San Francisco, San Jose State, Utah State."

His choice: He's heading to Utah St.

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EJ Neal is going to be loooooved by the Idaho fans this season.

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Clovis North Boys Basketball: "Want to say a huge thank you to Coach Terry Johnson coming all the way from Texas to watch our practice.  Houston Christian University Men’s Basketball coaching staff is first class!"

Houston Christian, located in Houston and a member of the D1 Southland Conference, has offered senior guard Connor Amundsen and is applying its full court press. Adopting him might be next. 

Here's our earlier Amundsen feature.

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Basketball Recruitment: "2024 6'8 PF Jaxon Johnson has trimmed his list to the following schools. 

Finalists:

• - USC
• - BYU
• - Stanford (already taken an official)
• - Utah"

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Clovis West Boys Basketball: "Congrats again to Jackson Young. We are excited for what the future holds."

Azuza Pacific has offered the 6-foot-2 2024 combo guard.

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John Bynum Jr.: "6-9” Montell Shelton (Cosumnes River) is another big man that should be getting attention. The sophomore has good touch, good hands and can play with his back to the basket and should be on on radars of schools across the nation."

He's out of Antelope High and the CRC roster has him at 310 pounds.

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Basketball Recruitment: "2024 6'4 CG The Branson School Jase Butler will make his college decision next Wednesday. Butler holds offers from New Mexico, San Jose St, Wyoming, Illinois, Colorado St, Pacific, Loyola Marymount, Drake, Montana, Montana St, Idaho, Seattle, UCSB, and Sac St, among others."

This one is difficult to call. Illinois is the most prominent hoops program. Santa Barbara has The Beach right next door but Joe Pasternack's roster no longer contains the usual 2-3 Nor Cal players, especially guards. SJSU just obtained two commits from high school guards. Can Alex Pribble pull off an upset? Will Travis DeCuire again work his Montana magic to team Butler with recent commit Tyler Thompson? Drumrollllllllllll, it's LMU. 

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Peter Janny: "Here’s a massive #MAAChoops development: Former Cal guard DeJuan Clayton has committed to Manhattan and has been on campus, per a reliable source. The 26-year-old will need a waiver to be eligible. A lame hamstring limited the former Hartford Hawk to 9 games in lone season at Cal."

What's next? Someone on Social Security making an NCAA D1 squad? But good for Clayton.

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From a pre-season primer on the Florida Gators: 

"FINAL PIECE, FINISHED PRODUCT – Zyon Pullin 

In June, the Gators were prepared to head into the season with Clayton as the leader in the clubhouse to play point guard. About that time, however, Pullin pulled out of the NBA draft evaluation process and instantly was one of the best players remaining in the portal. The 6-4, 195-pound first-team All-Big West Conference point guard from California-Riverside ultimately picked UF over Xavier and LSU, giving the Gators a proven floor general with nearly 1,300 career points and 400 assists. He started 77 of 109 career games at UC-Riverside, including all but one the last three seasons, and combined to average nearly 15 points, grab 4.5 rebounds and dish 4.3 assists over 33 minutes a game. Pullin's finest all-around season was '22-23, when he scored 18.3 points per game, shot nearly 49 percent from the floor, 39.4 from the 3-point line and hit 77 percent of his free throws on a team that went 22-12 and finished third in the league. His 3-point percentages are decent (35.2 career), but he's not a volume shooter from deep. Pullin is a prober who looks to get in the lane and make good decisions with the ball, which includes taking high-percentage, high-efficiency 2-point shots, an area where he made good on over 50 percent of his attempts each of the last three seasons. He's a stout guard too, ready-made for the physical nature of a power five league. Think about a better version of Kyle Lofton; stronger, more athletic and willing to take (and capable of making) a big shot."

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Basketball Recruitment: "2024 6'8 PF Jael Martin has completed an official visit to UC Davis."

Oot of the San Diego area, the 190-pounder sports a 4.0 grade point average and also has offers from UNLV, Colorado State, USF, Cal State Fullerton, Pepperdine, Cal Poly and Arizona State and San Diego. 

His officials:

September 16-17: Pepperdine

September 23-24: UC Davis

September 30: Cal Poly 

October 6-7: Princeton

October 13-14: Colorado State

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"As Humboldt turns new leaf, team searches for an identity"

The current Cal Poly Humboldt roster.

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Jake Lieberman: "6'11 2024 prospect Jacori Ervin tells me that Seattle U & San Francisco are expressing interest. Ervin just completed an unofficial visit to Washington State."

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Jake Lieberman: "7'2 '25 Daniel Jacobsen tells me that he's been in recent contact with Kentucky, LSU, Clemson, Purdue, Creighton, Minnesota, Vanderbilt, Stanford, UCLA, TCU, among others. Jacobsen's last three offers are from Clemson, Creighton & Wisconsin."

Does Stanford's move to a new conference help or hurt its chances here?

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Gavin Ripp Liking It at the Border

For some time, Archbishop Mitty's 6-foot-8, 210 Gavin Ripp has been one of those players. Talent evaluators looked at him and always envisioned more. What's fascinating is that after a growth spurt and an accompanying development of his skills set, the conclusion is similar but his ceiling is higher. Everyone loves his game, see even more advancement in his future and no one knows where he will eventually top out. But he remains a down-to-earth, thankful, willing-to-work young man who seems a little surprised himself at how far he has advanced so quickly.

A recent commit to Coach Steve Lavin and the University of San Diego (which had a number of other coaches silently or maybe not so quietly sputtering a collective "damn" at the news), Ripp wasted no time with his decision. He announced to the Torero coaching staff he was coming south while still on his recent official visit. "I told them while I was there. I was excited because it's great to be wanted and to see how happy they were. I wanted to make my decision before the season started so that it would be out of my mind. Recruiting is kind of a stressful process."

Why Lavin and Company? "I love the coaches and I believe in what they are building plus the West Coast Conference is great and so is living in San Diego. The team has a lot of potential and I want to be part of that."

Asked what he'll be bringing to the program, Ripp said, "I'm a hard worker who is versatile and can guard almost all positions. I rebound and have improved my scoring. I'm good with my passing. My goal is to do whatever I can to help us win." It's worth adding in here that Ripp sports a 4.5 grade point average so his academic effort will never be of concern to Coach Lavin and his staff.

More Of His Backstory

"I played guard as a kid and while I always had skills, I needed to grow into my body, take advantage of my athleticism and focus on rebuilding and touching up my shot." That continues to today.

Asked what position the San Diego coaches talked about him playing, Ripp offered, "I'm a unique player so it seems I'll be a taller wing."

He noted a pair of best basketball moments although he was more enthused about the latter. "I had a game where I scored 30 points and we won the game but at the summer Section 7 tournament our team just had great chemistry. It was fun to be playing so together."

So why basketball considering he has an older brother playing as an outside linebacker at Boise State? "I don't know. I was playing rec league basketball and fell in love with the game. I don't know why it chose me. It's interesting."

Regarding leadership, Ripp explained, "I want to be more of a leader, I'm trying to improve on that." Noting his take on leadership has been one of by example, some of that direction is circumstantial due to the larger-than-life presence of 6-foot-7 Derek Sangster (a Mitty senior last year and the team's best player, now at Princeton.)

Those influential in Ripp's basketball life to date start with his Mom and Dad. His Mom played volleyball in college and overseas and both parents provided the usual support required in getting to game, practices, summer tournaments and so on. Archbishop Mitty Coach Tim Kennedy has played a big role "in basketball and beyond. He has really helped me in improving my game." The now departed Sangster performed as a role model as "I'm trying to get to where he was. I'm working towards that level."

By the way, Ripp's brother Jake currently plays as a 6-foot-3, 225 outside linebacker up in Idaho

As for a major at San Diego, Ripp explained, "I like math a lot so I'm leaning toward something in the business and economics area."

Sounds appropriate for a point forward.

Potpourri, Sep 25

Gavin Sykes: "Blessed to receive a offer from UC Santa Barbara. Thank you to Coach Glasser and the whole staff for believing in me."

San Jose State University also recently offered the 6-foot-4, 2025 Modesto Christian High prospect as did Montana.

The Mikey Lewises, Jase Butlers and Jasir Renchers aren't coming to Spartanville (all offered). Sykes is land-able. Let's see what happens down the line. Choosing between the climate of Santa Barbara and Montana? That's a hard one to win but Coach Travis DeCuire nabs his share of Nor Cal prospect battles.

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Maximus Vanlaningham: "I’m honored to say that I have received a D1 offer from the University of Idaho. Thank you to Coach Pribble and Coach Laird for believing in me. Let’s go Vandals!"

Pribble and Laird know Nor Cal extremely well unlike what one would think of most Idaho staff. Miles Klapper, Quinn Denker, EJ Neal and Takai Hardy signed in 2023.

Vanlaningham is 6-foot-8, 215, in the 2026 class and with Woodcreek High and Team Lillard.

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Sacramento State Men's Basketball: "The Big Sky Preseason Coach of the Year according to The Almanac: David Patrick‼️ The Sleeper Team in the Big Sky: Your Hornets."

Glad to see this. Some say this adds pressure but if you have a solid team then you want that stature.

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Team Rampage Basketball: "6’7’ Josh Devore (2024) has received his 3rd offer from Emerson."

Add Pacific University and Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham from earlier.

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"The Newest Zag Walk-On, Joaquim ArauzMoore"

He's out of The Branson School.

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Basketball Recruitment: "2024 6'6 SG Zion Wilburn has completed an official visit to Montana."

Zion, get thy pen in hand and sign ASAP.

and

Zion Wilburn: "Cal Baptist University visit!" 

Playing for Rick Croy and staying in CA is tempting.

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Basketball Recruitment: "2024 6'8 C Malick Diallo has received an offer from Miami. Diallo also holds offers from Mississippi St, BYU, TCU, Cali, VCU, New Mexico, San Jose St, Utah St, Loyola Chicago, and Weber State."

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Sacramento State Men's Basketball: "Congrats to Zach Chappell on signing his FIRST professional contract with the Paderborn Baskets of Paderborn, Germany. Good Luck!!"

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"Herb Sendek’s relationships spark successes   Over his nearly 30-year career, Santa Clara’s head coach has built an impressive coaching tree collection of players"

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"Delgado-Martinez joins Stanford Basketball Staff"

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Jake Lieberman: "2025 6'2 PG Jordan Lowery has earned an offer from Cal. Lowery attends Winston Salem Christian (HS). Prospect with a busy recruitment."

and

Verbal Commits: "2026 Prolific Prep (CA) F A.J. Dybantsa has received an offer from California."

He's ranked #1 in the country in his class.

and

Verbal Commits: "2026 Prolific Prep (CA) G Tyran Stokes has received an offer from California."

He's ranked #2 in one poll.

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It's Go West Young Man for Cameron Patterson

Give or take, it's 1,900 road miles or so driving from the Houston area to San Jose, CA. 2024 talent Cameron Patterson plays at Summer Creek High located in the outskirts of Space City and recently committed to play for San Jose State University (SJSU). But such a distance played no factor in his decision according to the 6-foot-5, 200 pound Patterson because "the bond is good and the love is real" between himself and the Spartan coaching staff. Summer Creek High Coach Kenneth Coleman confirmed this, adding "SJSU showed him a lot of love." Coach Tim Miles and Company began reaching out last season and remained in contact.

On His Official Visit

A combo guard, Patterson visited San Jose the weekend of September 9 and 10 and afterwards said, "I really enjoyed the culture." He received a campus tour, checked out The Event Center and participated in a photo shoot. He also met with some of the current players and participated in an open gym. Another positive element for Patterson, who is similar in size to recently graduated star Spartan guard Omari Moore, proved to be the offensive style employed by SJSU Coach Tim Miles.

Asked to name his best basketball skills, Patterson offered "shooting off the dribble, passing well and finishing in transition." He shot 52% (44-85) this summer in the always tough Nike EYBL Peach Invitational.

Coleman added to this compilation, supplying "putting the ball in the basket, being very crafty with the ball, his ability to get his shot off against anybody and the higher his competition, the better he plays" as Patterson's top talents. He's growing to understand he has been blessed."

Patterson also named himself as a leader on his high school team adding that such "will be critical this season when we have just two or three seniors."

His top hoops memory comes from rival games he played during his middle school days. "We lost the first game but came back to win the second game by 20. I scored 59 points." No, that isn't a typo.

How did Paterson get to his present 6-foot-5 height? Look towards his father standing 6-foot-3 and his mother measuring 6-foot-0, with both sporting an athletic background. Paterson's younger brother is also a member of the Summer Creek High squad.

Influences

Asked to name the biggest influences in his choice of a basketball life, Patterson said, "My Mom, Dad and my Grandpa. Each of them played basketball so I always had one in my hands. Patterson did play football for one season (after all, he lives in Texas) but that was the sole venture beyond outside of the the basketball court.

Now he knows where he will be playing college basketball. With that critical question off his mind, Patterson may just become even more of a force in his final high school season because of having a single-minded focus of leading his Summer Creek High squad through the Texas state high school playoffs. 

Potpourri, Sep 22

Darren Sabedra: "Patrick Judge is the new boys basketball coach at Santa Teresa. He had successful runs at Saratoga and Leigh before taking last season off. “Very excited,” Judge said."

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USF Assistant Coach of Player Development Vinnie McGhee is departing from The Hilltop. Destination unknown.

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Jasir Rencher: "Extremely blessed to say that i have received an offer from the University Of Oklahoma. Thank you to the Head Coach; Coach Moser for believing in me."

Add another one to the 6-foot-5 2025 Archbishop Riordan talent. Has to be getting close to 20 offers.

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Gavin Sykes: "Blessed to receive a offer from UC Santa Barbara. Thank you to Coach Glasser and the whole staff for believing in me."

Sykes is a 6-foot-4 2025 Modesto Christian High and Team Lillard talent.

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Isaiah Hinds: "Thank you to Coach Darnall, Coach TravisT and the whole William Jessup MBB staff for hosting me on a visit and practice last Friday. I had a great time! Good luck this season."

Out of Heritage High and Golden State Prep, the 6-foot-3 Hinds is entering his sophomore season at Gavilan College. 

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Team Rampage Basketball: "6’7’ Joshua DeVore (2024) has received his 2nd offer from Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham ‼️ Work Ethic & Academics."

Devore is attending Novato High. 

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Nes Emeneke: "I had a great time visiting LMU’s campus this afternoon, thanks Coach Johnson and Coach Greg for having me."

and

Nes Emeneke: "I had a great time visiting USC this weekend huge thank you to Coach Kurt Karis for the visit."

The 2025 Emeneke attends Archbishop Riordan, stands 6-foot-10 and weighs 225 with a 7-foot-4 wingspan.

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Jordan Haire: "Very blessed and thankful to announce I have received my first D1 offer to Lousiana Tech!!"

and

Dallas Jensen: "Don’t be late to the party.

6’7”, 220. Plays the 3 and 4. Guards all five spots. Coachable, high character, works hard, great teammate, elite motor and athleticism, and built like an NFL TE.

Qualifier and will have THREE years to play."

Jordan Haire is a 6-foot-7, 220 and a freshman out of Hanford West High. 

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Jake Lieberman: "6’3 2025 PG Kisean “Key” Robinson tells me that the following programs are expected to watch him workout:

• Presbyterian 
• Georgia State  
• Jacksonville University  
• Southern U 
• George Mason  
• Campbell
• San Jose State

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"College Coaches Confidential: "How does the NIL conversation differ between a high school and a portal recruit?"

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Blake Bastani: "Thank you to hoop executives and simplyy_bball for a great pro west camp. Made the top 20 game as one of 4 underclassmen in it and was the 4th leading scorer in the event out off over 115+ players with 16.3 ppg. Looking forward to pangos in 2 weeks!"

A young points producer with good size at Miramonte High..

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Frank Knight: "AAU, CYO, Youth, Jr High & Middle School basketball coaches. The Bay Area Coaches Clinic 2023. Come watch live on floor instruction, coaches chalk talk and expand your network!"    link to sign up    Saturday, October 28, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. House of Hustle

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Jacob Bayla: "After a great conversation with Coach Billups and Coach Tifft, I’m blessed and excited to say I have received my first scholarship offer from Cal Poly Humboldt."

Attending Valley Christian High (Cerrito s), the 6-foot-5 Bayla weighs 190 and is a 2024 prospect.

--------------------are.link/u/AR3nAXzd

Tyler Thompson to the Grizzlies

The University of Montana basketball coaching staff began reaching out to Tyler Thompson when the young baller was in the summer between his freshman and sophomore years at Vanden High. They were the first school to do so. 

The relationship remained steady and finally blossomed to fruition when the 6-foot-6 Thompson committed to Coach Travis DeCuire on September 4 after taking an official visit over the weekend of September 2 and 3. Montana initially extended an official offer on June 28.

Why Montana?

His reasons for signing on with the Grizzlies are multiple. "I chose Montana because it's a winning program and Coach Trav and the assistant coaches are good people. I also really like Missoula -- it feels like the Bay  Area in some ways. The people are great."

He added, "Montana plays like I prefer, getting up and down the court, with guys performing in different roles and positions." 

Thompson offered that among his skills are "being a three-way scorer (long distance, mid-range and at the rim. I also want to guard the best opponent. I take pride in that and also in making plays without having to score. 

Beating out a fellow West Coast Conference member is a critical victory for DeCuire as Montana and Coach Steve Lavin's San Diego Toreros were Thompson's final two choices.

The foremost positive of McCuire's landing of Thompson is the latter has the potential to be a major plus player for the Grizzlies. Sooner rather than later, Thompson will become Montana's leading scorer and make his teammates more effective because of the attention he will demand defenses.

Regarding leadership, Thompson said, "I am a leader on my high school team. That has helped me to develop my game to another level. Everyone has to stay in line and play their role. You have to offer praise or call some out, whatever is appropriate."

Asked to name his major basketball influences,Thompson offer his parents, various friends and other family members, his middle school, high school and AAU coaches plus John McCall, one of my biggest influences who has coached me since I was seven or eight." McCall played basketball at Solano Community College.

His best basketball moment came "in Vanden winning our section championship against rival Vacaville in our sophomore year."

A Former Footballer

Thompson offered "I used to play football as a running back and linebacker," wryly observing that the ranks of hoopsters are filled with former footballers attempting to reduce chances of incurring      serious injuries.

A plus is that family and friends will be able to catch Thompson in person when Montana comes to Sacramento State during conference play.

He's mulling over business and kinesiology as his major.

Thompson closed with "I've always developed five-year plans in order to reach my goals. What I did here is write down the steps I needed to take to in order to get to D1 basketball. Soon, I'll need to create a new five-year plan." 

That he will.

Popourri, Sep 20

6-foot-2 point guard Jermaine Washington Jr., out of the southern California high school ranks, has committed to San Jose State University. 

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Basketball Recruitment: "2024 6'6 SG Zion Wilburn has completed an official visit to Samford."

Wilburn was at Pinole Valley High but is now at Veritas Prep in southern California.

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John Bynum Jr.: "CJ Hardy (West LA) picks up an offer from Southern Utah. Hardy who is playing at West LA this upcoming season averaged 10.4 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.9 assists last season at City College of San Francisco."

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Verbal Commits: "2026 Utah Prep (UT) G/F Gallagher Placide has received an offer from California."

Cal Coach Mark Madsen is looking ahead.

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Paul Hernandez after viewing play at the Ron Massey Memorial Fall Hoops Classic:

"2024 6’3 Darnez Slater (Roosevelt/Eastvale CA) (near Fresno)

Slater continues to show that he is a legit Division 1 prospect and impacts the game in countless ways on defense and offense. Slater led the Mustangs with 21 points in an opening night thriller, as Roosevelt defeated St. Bernard in a comeback win. Slater followed that up with a team-high 17 points in a semifinal loss to St. John Bosco. Slater plays well on and off the ball, has the moves and handles to create shots off the dribble, has the physical build to bully through traffic in the paint, and has great footwork to pivot off his defender for tough fadeaway jumpers he hits routinely. Slater is capable of defending the 1 through 3 positions effectively, is the first on the ground for loose balls, and uses his quick leaping ability to control the boards amongst the bigs. Plays at a fast pace with control and the court vision to make tough passes in tight windows. Flat out competes every play."

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Dinos Trigonis: "Pangos Best of SoCal Fall Showcase Notes: 6-3 2024  Zander Jimenez (Salesian/Richmond CA) is a Jorge Gutiérrez-type guard (former Cal player/late 2000s) that has the athleticism, burst & instincts to make plays on both ends & that 4.0-PLUS GPA ain't too shabby either."

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"Jonathan Jones named Assistant Basketball Coach at Pacific"

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Ryan Pettis: "Thank you to Head Coach Perry, Coach Levy, and the whole staff at University of Pacific for a great official visit."

Pettis is a 6-foot-4 2024 combo guard at Serra High.

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Jake Lieberman: "2024 6’9 forward Isaiah Chappell also will be taking the following visits (official) in the coming weeks. 

- UC Davis

- Boston U"

He will play at South Kent  prep school this season.

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In a September 8 article on 2024 Florida point guard Cam Miles, he said, "Murray State, Mississippi State, Samford, UMass, SIU, UT-Arlington, Arkansas State, Drake, San Jose State, and Pacific (have been the teams staying strong with him).

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Jasir Rencher: "Blessed to say iIreceived an offer Utah State University. Thank you to the Head Coach, Danny Sprinkle, and his staff for believing in me."

Rencher is a 6-foot-6 Archbishop Riordan guard/wing is in the 2025 class.

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Mateen Rafiq: "Thank you to the Fresno Pacific U coaching staff, players, and institution for hosting my family and I for a fantastic Official Visit" 

Fresno Pacific is really working Rafiq, a senior point now at Weston Ranch High.

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Christian Wise Jumps to San Jose State University

Big & Wide Robert Vaihola 

Archbishop Riordan (San Francisco) Coach Joey Curtin is in a unique position in having two of his recent frontcourters holding roster spots for the same position at San Jose State University. 

6-foot-8, 245 pound power forward Robert Vaihola attended Fresno State as a freshman and finished with 1.5 points on 77% shooting from the floor plus 2.0 boards in 22 games while playing 6.9 minutes an outing. He then transferred to SJSU. (it's unclear why he left Fresno.)

In this past season of residence in Silicon Valley, Vaihola totaled 7.6 points plus 6.5 boards, in 20.1 minutes per game. He shot 71% overall from the floor. Vaihola is returning for his second season with the Spartans.

Also in this past season but in the prep ranks, 6-foot-6 Archbishop Riordan frontcourter Christian Wise (#22) earned Second Team All-WCAL honors. After studying his options, he cast his lot as a walk-on in the 2023-24 season with the Spartans.

Christian Wise Wins the Tip

Wise lacks Vaihola's strength and poundage (who doesn't?) plus the obvious experience but has decided to walk-on at SJSU as a power forward in his initial college season. He may be looking at transitioning to a three if his ball skills expand.

We talked recently with Curtin in inquiring about what Spartan fans will be seeing in Wise and here is what he said. "It's hard for high school seniors to get scholarships. You are competing with the world and first there was COVID, now there's the transfer portal." Wise transferred to Riordan as a junior from Heritage High in Brentwood. Curtin also mentioned that Wise started late in basketball due to participating earlier in baseball.  

According to Curtin, Wise received D2 and NAIA offers this year but "he wants to play D1 basketball. So his possible path will be longer."

Christian Wise Skies

Asked about Wise's strengths, Curtin offered, "he's amazing vertically, finishing above the rim with his jumping ability and power. He's a shotblocker with tremendous fluidity as an athlete and a one of a kind dunker, the best I ever coached. Christian has been working this summer on his ball skills and jump shot."

Potpourri, Sep 18

"Former ‘Iolani guard Aaron Hunkin-Claytor commits to Hawaii"

As predicted.

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Archbishop Mitty's Gavin Ripp has cast his lot with Coach Steve Lavin and San Diego of the West Coast Conference.

Basketball Recruitment: "The 6-foot-8 2024 forward chose the Toreros over Montana, San Jose St, UC San Diego, UC Davis, Cal Poly, and Cal State East Bay."

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Yuba Men's Hoops: "Yuba basketball finishes the gauntlet weekend against some of the best programs in California at 3-1. Wins vs Riverside, Citrus and San Diego city and a close loss to defending state champ Fullerton. Honor to play those types of programs and coaches!"

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Verbal Commits: "2024 Sierra Canyon (CA) G Justin Pippen has received an offer from Sacramento State."

Yes, he is the son of Scottie Pippen as a 6-foot-2 shooting guard.

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Mike Clagett: "What a week for the program! Congrats to Jase Butler on picking up the official offer from university of Illinois!!"

and

Luke Lowry: "2024 3⭐️ combo guard Jase Butler tells me he will take an official visit to Illinois on September 22-24."

Butler is a 6-foot-5 2024 point at The Branson School.

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Basketball Recruitment: "2024 6'11 PF Josh Hill has received an offer from Georgia State."

Hill also holds offers from DePaul, Alabama, Georgia, Kansas St, Seton Hall, Arizona St, Cal, Marquette, Xavier, College of Charleston, FIU, Arkansas St, Mercer, and Texas State, among others.

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Marcel Pierre-Louis: "After a great talk with Coach Kersh and Coach Grey I am grateful to say I have received and offer from Carleton College!"

Pierre-Louis is a 2024, 6-foot-7 forward attending Head-Royce High in Oakland. High academics Carleton College is located in Minnesota.

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"Dartmouth College basketball players file petition seeking to be represented by union"

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Clovis North Boys Basketball: "6-foot-3 2024 Jordan Espinoza taking a visit and working out with Cal State East Bay today!  He is a stud!"

Here's Paul Hernandez: "Jordan Espinoza of Clovis North holds steady at the #6 spot in these updated rankings, as he is coming off a superb junior season that forced him to step up his level of play when teammate Connor Amundsen was ruled out for the season. Espinoza led the Broncos to a co-TRAC League Championship, and was named co-MVP of the TRAC, averaging 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists per game. These numbers increased significantly when you cancel out blowout wins where he played limited minutes. Espinoza was a top 5 performer at our Prospect Preview back in mid-May, and one of the top scorers and rebounders for Clovis North during the month of June, in particular at the two Scholastic Live Period events. Espinoza played the Spring and Summer club sessions with the Oakland Soldiers 17u EYCL squad, of which I only saw once in person and he was more of a role player. Espinoza is a great athlete, plays much bigger than his height reads, and is a productive scorer from 20 feet and in, with the ability to hit the 3-ball to keep the defense honest. Espinoza is a bit undersized for a wing/forward, which is why I have him as a very solid Division 3/NAIA prospect with the potential to play at the Division 2 level if he expands his play as a guard and increases his accuracy from the 3-point line."

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Sportando: "New Taipei Kings sign Jeremy Lin..."

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Glad to see Isaiah Sams-Hoy back playing -- he's with Coach Tyson Aye and San Jose City College this season.

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LP: "RP2 will be taking his official visit to UOP this Friday, September 15"

That's 6-foot-4 2024 Ryan Pettis of Serra High.

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"Aztecs basketball commit Taj Degourville says decision not about the money"

Interesting article about NIL money.Supposedly there is a paywall here b ut it never appeared for me.

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Chabot Gladiator Basketball: "1st Day at So Cal Showcase 

Gladiators go 1-1

Lost by 8pts to  “23” state final 8 team Citrus College

Then Beat So Cal playoff team Riverside City College by 33pts"

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Yuba Mens Hoops: "Yuba opens the first day of the SoCal jamboree with a 2-0 start. Yuba takes down Riverside JC (42-38) and follows that up with a 20pt win (72-52) over last years final 8 team Citrus College..."

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Nor Cal Preps has Contra Costa College assistant coach Jason Maples taking over the Pinole Valley High coaching opening.

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Ben Dotten Ready To Step Up

Ben Dotten is one of those players who sneaks up on you -- the more you watch, the more you like him. A 6-foot-6 2024 talent on a perennially successful Santa Cruz High School program, Dotten contributes to his team in multiple areas. But this is his season to come to the fore as a must-stop guy for Cardinal opponents considering the void created by the graduation of teammate Aden Curry, the Most Valuable Player of the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League. Dotten himself earned First Team honors last season.

Asked to detail his best basketball skills, Dotten modestly offered, "right now, it's my passing, attacking the rim and my shooting which I improved on this summer. Lawan Milhouse, Dotten's Santa Cruz High head coach soon to be entering his 10th year in the position, said "Dotten can guard the 1-5 spots, his jumpshot is coming along well, he is very good off the dribble and has a pretty good basketball IQ."

Acknowledging that the loss of Curry will be felt, Dotten still forsees another prosperous go-around in 2023-24 for the Cardinals. "We'll have a solid rotation of 7-8 guys."

Dotten is ready to fill any gaps in a leadership role for Santa Cruz, understanding that "leadership is being verbal but also how you play and show yourself." He is also looking forward to getting back on the Cardinal court with longtime teammate and fellow senior 6-foot-3 Demeke Smith.

With recruiting, Dotton "is keeping all options open. I'll go with my gut, wanting a head coach who will be looking out for me and also willing to push me." He sees his collegiate position as playing on the wing.

Regarding a major, Dotten will eventually decide between business and sports medicine.

His best basketball memories reside in the 'we-not-me' hoops spectrum. "It's all the fierce games we played against rival Aptos High plus how we bonded even more as a team when we were traveling to and from high school and AAU games." To this day, Dotten heads over to San Jose to visit with teammates  whenever he has time to do so (he played on the West Coast Elite program during spring and summer).

Crediting "my mother and father for their support" in his taking up and sticking with basketball, Dotten retains fond memories of "battling my Dad one-on-one. He's 6-feet tall and will try to dunk on me to this day despite our difference in height. He's the one who got me into basketball."

Granted, Dotten has big shoes to fill this season but he is prepared to do so. The opportunity is present. So is the talent and drive.     

Potpourri, Sep 15

Jasir Rencher: "Blessed to say I have received an offer from the University of Cal Berkeley. Thank you to Coach Adam and the staff for believing in me."

Rencher is a 6-foot-6, 2025 wing/guard attending Archbishop Riordan. Can envision him going with the basketball Berkeley-ites in the first signing period he's available to ink an LOI. California looks to be on the way up this year as Coach Mark Madsen's initial signing class looks better than any from the past six or seven years at Cal.

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Jaylin Lee: "I’m very blessed and honored to receive my first Division 1 offer from Portland State University."

Two bigs from College of Sequoias Coach Dallas Jensen's program have committed recently. Lee is a 6-foot-10 sophomore headed to the Rose City.  6-foot-9 teammate Cam Clark recently committed to Bakersfield.

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PGC Basketball: "Coaches, show THIS to your players!

Idaho guard Quinn (Bellarmine Prep/Prolific Prep/West Valley College/Cal State San Marcos/Denker mic’d up.

A player led team is greater than a coach led team. 

If the coaches voice is the loudest voice at practice, it’s not yet a championship level environment." 

Denker defines intangibles. His leadership and academics are also top notch.

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Luke Lowry: "Illinois assistant Chester Frazier was in Saturday to see 2024 3⭐️ CG Jase Butler Branson Hoops. Illinois HC Brad Underwood will be in to see him tonight." 

Haven't counted lately but Butler's offers must be nearing 20. 

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The Sacramento Kings have signed 6-foot-1 guard Jordan (Folsom High/St. Mary's/Ford but the terms were not released. It's past time for him to have a solid role and a long run on an NBA team.

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Gavin Sykes: "Blessed to receive an offer from San Jose State University. Thank you to Coach Hendrix and the whole staff for believing in me."

Sykes is a 6-foot-4 2025 combo guard now attending Modesto Christian High after being at Capital Christian High. He ran with the Oakland Soldiers in the spring and summer.

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William Jessup Head Coach Mark Darnall has announced additions to his roster and two have northern-California connections:

MALIK PATTON | DENVER, COLO. | WEST VALLEY COLLEGE

 

A 6-9 forward out of Denver, Malik Patton looks to add size to the Warriors. Patton comes to Jessup after playing for West Valley College. During that time, his squad went 54-9, and he personally posted 8.5 PPG and 7.2 RPG.

 

From Coach Darnall: "Malik is another big physical presence that adds much-needed depth to our front court. He has contributed to a winning program and has learned from a well-respected coach in Danny Yoshikawa. He has experience with our style of play on both sides of the ball. He gives us a defensive presence at the basket and will help our scoring inside in different ways. We are looking forward to helping him continue to grow on and off the floor."

and

JAKE KING | CONCORD, CALIF. | CLAYTON CHARTER HS

 

Concord's Jake King moves to Rocklin to start his collegiate career with the Warriors. King, a 6-5 wing, was an NCS Division I Champion while competing for Clayton Charter HS. During his high school career, King averaged 17.0 PPG and 4.0 RPG while shooting 45 percent from the floor.

 

From Coach Darnall: "Jake is one the most selfless individuals I've been around. He has leadership skills that you don't see too often from a player straight out of high school. He brings a special level of intensity and toughness that raises his team's level of play and is one of the most vocal players we have ever seen in high school. Jake can really shoot the basketball, and he exemplifies what it means to be a Warrior with his attitude and team-first mentality."

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Clovis North Boys Basketball: "@connoramundsen has been invited to Coach Wootten’s Top 150 Showcase, with invites extended to the Top 50 in the class of 2024, the Top 35 in the class of 2025, and the Top 15 in the class of 2026! Compete!"

Connor Amundsen is finally receiving some national recognition.

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Jake Lieberman: "6'10 '25 prospect Nes Emeneke updates me about potential upcoming visits: 

This weekend: USC & Loyola Marymount

Offer: LMU

Interest: Oregon St, Princeton, Stanford, CBU, Pepperdine, UPenn, +.

-7'4 wingspan

-HS: Archbishop Riordan (CA)

-AAU: Oakland Soldiers"

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"High school basketball: 247Sports pegs A.J. Dybantsa as top prospect in initial Class of 2026 rankings"

From the article: "...Dybantsa led both the NBPA Top 100 Camp and Nike EYBL Peach Jam in scoring over the summer. The 6-foot-7 wing averaged 28.3 points per contest on 61.4 percent shooting from the field and 81.5 percent from the free throw line in six games at the NBPA Top 100 Camp before pumping in 25.8 points on 46.6 percent from the field and 81.6 percent from the field in five games of Nike EYBL Peach Jam action.

Prolific Prep teammate 6-7 forward Tyran Stokes debuts at No. 2 on the list..."

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"Shemar Morrow of ‘Last Chance U’ finding footing at ELAC"

Didn't Morrow have a brief early run in the Bay Area at one point?

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