Maywood Academy High School Basketball Season Preview

As we approach the upcoming basketball season, there is a sense of excitement and high hopes surrounding the Maywood Academy High School team. With a strong core of returners and some new additions, Coach Anthony Castro has his sights set on making a big run in the playoffs and hopefully bringing home a championship. One of the reasons for this high level of optimism is the talented group of returning players from last season. Leading the pack are seniors Fernando Payan and Rodrigo Miranda, who have been with Coach Castro for the past three years. Payan, standing at 6'5, brings size and a consistent shooting ability to the team. He is also capable of playing in the post, making him a versatile player on the court. Already being recruited by junior colleges, Payan is sure to have a big impact on the team this season. Miranda, on the other hand, brings a different set of skills to the team with his exceptional passing ability. Last season, he was ranked in the top ten in the nation for assists. Coach Castro describes him as a player who can take over a game at any moment, making him a valuable asset to the team. In addition to these top returners, Coach Castro has been impressed by the hard work and dedication of new player Oscar Lepe. Despite not getting much playing time last year, Lepe has been working diligently during the off-season and has been averaging 20 points. His breakout season is something Coach Castro is looking forward to, showing that hard work truly pays off on the court. When looking for potential team captains, Coach Castro looks for players with specific qualities. This year, the captain is Luis Alegria, who is known for his hustle and determination on the court. He is the heart of the team and isn't afraid to call out any players who may not be giving their all during practices or games. Team chemistry and camaraderie are crucial for a successful season. Coach Castro recognizes the importance of this and has implemented team bonding activities and exercises to strengthen the bond between players. With a team that has been together for the past 3-4 years, they have already built a strong foundation of team chemistry, making it easier to focus on improving skills and strategies on the court. To motivate his players to push themselves to their full potential, Coach Castro believes that it is not necessary this season.