Montgomery’s Historic Season: Coach Edward Martin Recaps a Championship Run for the Ages
In a season that will be remembered not just at Montgomery High School but across the San Diego region, the 2025 Montgomery Boys Basketball team delivered a performance for the record books. Under the leadership of Head Coach Edward Martin, the Aztecs cemented their legacy by capturing their first-ever Open Division Championship, finishing the season with a staggering 29-3 record and etching their names into CIF history.
This wasn’t just a good season—it was the season.
The Big 4: Senior Leadership at Its Finest
Heading into the season, Coach Martin had high expectations—and with good reason. The roster was anchored by a quartet of senior standouts collectively known as "The Big 4": JJ Sanchez, Alek Sanchez, Xair Mendez, and Devin Hamilton. All four were All-CIF selections the year before and came into their senior campaigns ready to lead.
JJ Sanchez, the offensive engine of the team, led the Aztecs in scoring, averaging nearly 19 points per game. His ability to carry the offensive load and deliver in clutch moments made him the heartbeat of the team’s attack. “Most of our offense went through him,” said Coach Martin. “He was always reliable, and his leadership showed every time he stepped on the court.”
Alek Sanchez, the team’s point guard and floor general, controlled the pace on both ends. “He ran the show,” Coach Martin noted. “Offensively and defensively, he was our brain on the court.” Alek’s presence ensured that the Aztecs stayed composed under pressure and executed with precision.
Xair Mendez brought relentless energy and two-way impact. Defensively, he was the team’s enforcer, pressuring opponents full-court. Offensively, he was a dynamic three-level scorer. “He was key to our defense,” Martin said, “and he gave us offense whenever we needed a spark.”
Devin Hamilton, described by Coach Martin as “our glue,” did a little bit of everything. He was the team’s top athlete, ranking third in both scoring and rebounding while guarding the opposition’s best player night after night. “He made everything work for us,” Martin emphasized. “His versatility and toughness were irreplaceable.”
Together, this group gave the Aztecs experience, talent, and the type of chemistry that can only be forged over years of shared battles on the hardwood.
A Championship Season
While expectations were high, even Coach Martin admits the heights the team reached were unprecedented.
“This season was one for the ages,” he said. “We were already proud to be the first team in school history to make the Open Division, but to go a step further and win the title? That was historic—not just for our program, but for our entire district.”
The Open Division is widely regarded as the most competitive tier of CIF basketball. It features the best of the best—and Montgomery didn’t just show up, they took over.
The defining moment of the season came in the championship game at Frontwave Arena, where 4,000 fans witnessed the Aztecs rise to the occasion in storybook fashion. “Winning that title in front of a packed arena was the perfect ending to our seniors’ storied high school careers,” said Martin. “It was electric. The energy, the passion—it was unforgettable.”
Unsung Heroes and Rising Stars
Though the spotlight often shined on the Big 4, the season also revealed new contributors ready to take the baton.
Xavier Guerrero, or “X,” emerged as the team’s surprise X-factor during his junior year. Tasked with filling the shoes of the departed David Soto, Xavier rose to the challenge and then some. “He helped us in all aspects of the game,” Coach Martin shared. “He wasn’t just a fill-in—he made the role his own.”
As the season progressed, Guerrero’s contributions grew. He provided valuable minutes, strong defense, and timely buckets—laying the foundation for what promises to be a breakout senior season.
Strength Through Adversity
Every championship journey faces its share of adversity. For Montgomery, the path wasn’t always smooth, but the response was consistent.
“The team was strong-minded and strong-willed,” said Coach Martin. “We overcame every obstacle that came our way—whether it was injuries, close losses, or pressure situations. This group never folded. They rose to every challenge.”
That mental toughness, built through practices, past playoff heartbreaks, and countless hours of preparation, became the intangible advantage that pushed the Aztecs over the top.
Looking Ahead: The Future is Bright
While the graduation of the Big 4 marks the end of an era, the future of Montgomery Basketball is in good hands. Coach Martin expressed confidence in the team’s young core, who have already shown flashes of brilliance.
Xavier Guerrero will now be expected to take on a larger role—both as a scorer and a leader. Coach Martin believes he’s more than ready. “He’ll need to dominate for us next season. I think he’s ready to make that leap.”
Joining him in expanded roles will be Kyden Eleazar-Martin and DK Montgomery, two returning guards who have patiently developed behind the scenes and are now primed to step into the spotlight.
“They’ve been learning from the best,” said Coach Martin. “Now it’s their time. If they keep progressing, we’ll be right back in the mix.”
A Legacy Cemented
As Coach Martin reflects on the season, it’s clear this group of players left an indelible mark—not just in the win-loss column, but in how they represented Montgomery High School.
“This group was special,” he said. “They weren’t just talented—they were committed, unselfish, and dedicated to doing things the right way. They’ve set a standard for what Montgomery Basketball can be.”
The team’s success has energized the entire school community and elevated the program’s stature in Southern California basketball.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Montgomery Aztecs boys basketball team didn’t just win games—they made history. They united a community, inspired younger athletes, and reminded everyone of what’s possible when talent, chemistry, and coaching come together in perfect harmony.
With a championship banner now hanging in the gym and a new generation of stars waiting in the wings, the Aztecs aren’t just celebrating the past—they’re building the future.
For complete stats and season highlights, visit MaxPreps.com and search for Montgomery High School (San Diego, California) Boys Basketball.
Share With