San Juan Hills Boys Basketball 2025 Recap: A Season of Resilience, Records, and Rising Stars
The 2024–2025 season was one to remember for the San Juan Hills High School Boys Varsity Basketball Team, led by Head Coach Jason Efstathiou. A team defined by grit, elite talent, and resilience, the Stallions delivered a strong campaign, finishing 21-10 overall, earning a spot in the CIF Quarterfinals, and producing one of the greatest individual seasons in school history.
From soaring highs to hard-fought recoveries from illness and injury, the team’s journey reflected its toughness and talent. Behind standout senior Mason Hodges, breakout star Adam Aziz, and a group of hungry returners, San Juan Hills made its mark across Orange County and beyond.
The Mason Hodges Era: Dominance and Records
At the center of the Stallions’ success this season was senior forward Mason Hodges, a 6'7" phenom who shattered school records and became one of the most celebrated players in the entire CIF Southern Section.
Hodges averaged an eye-popping 25 points and 13 rebounds per game, leading not only the team but ranking top 3 in both categories across all of Orange County. Equally impressive was his shooting range — he finished the season knocking down 47.6% of his three-point attempts, a lethal weapon from deep for a player of his size.
Accolades followed suit. Hodges was named:
1st Team All-CIF
1st Team All-Orange County
1st Team All-South Coast League
“He had the best individual season in school history,” Coach Efstathiou reflected. “But it wasn’t just about stats — it was about leadership, toughness, and carrying us through.”
Hodges’ legacy will be long remembered at San Juan Hills, and his historic senior season set a new benchmark for the program.
Backcourt Brilliance: Adam Aziz Emerges
While Hodges commanded attention in the paint and on the perimeter, junior Adam Aziz provided consistency and spark from the point guard position. Averaging 13.5 points, 5 assists, and 3 steals per game, Aziz was a two-way force, ranking among the county’s leaders in assists and steals.
Aziz earned 1st Team All-South Coast League honors and played a crucial role in the team’s up-tempo offense and disruptive defense.
“Adam was our engine,” said Efstathiou. “He’s a playmaker, a competitor, and a guy who stepped up in every big moment.”
His return for next season gives the Stallions a strong foundation to build around as they transition into the post-Hodges era.
A Strong Start, Tough Setbacks, and a Deep Playoff Run
The Stallions opened the season hot, starting 5-0 before facing their first major hurdle — the loss of a key starter to a dislocated kneecap. Though he would return at the beginning of league play, he never regained full strength, forcing the team to adapt.
Despite the early setback, San Juan Hills surged through the South Coast League, winning their first six games by double digits, and asserting themselves as one of the top teams in the region. However, just as they were peaking, another blow struck — a team-wide flu outbreak during the most critical part of league play.
After dominating the first half of league competition, the Stallions dropped their final two games short-handed, finishing 6-2 in league.
“We were absolutely rolling,” Coach Efstathiou said. “But illness hit us hard. It’s tough when things like that are out of your control. Still, I’m proud of how we fought.”
Even with a depleted roster, San Juan Hills made a run to the CIF Southern Section Quarterfinals, battling through adversity and proving their depth and resilience.
Highlight Game: January 22 vs. San Clemente
One of the season’s most electric performances came on January 22, when the Stallions hosted league rival San Clemente. In a game that defined their early league dominance, San Juan Hills secured a commanding 77-66 win, building a 19-point lead late in the contest.
“It was one of those nights where everything clicked,” said Efstathiou. “That game showed what we were capable of at full strength.”
It wasn’t just a win — it was a statement.
The Heart of a Team: Battling Through Adversity
Injuries and illness were constant hurdles, but the Stallions never lost their edge.
The early-season injury to a key starter could have derailed the team’s chemistry, but instead, the Stallions adapted. His return in league play, even at less than 100%, gave them an emotional lift. And when sickness swept through the team late in the year, they refused to give in.
Despite not being at full health during the playoffs, the Stallions won key games and pushed deep into the postseason, showcasing the culture of toughness that Coach Efstathiou and his staff have built.
The Senior Class: A Legacy Etched in Stone
Leading the charge was Mason Hodges, but the impact of this year’s senior class extended beyond statistics.
“This senior group helped elevate our program to new heights,” Efstathiou said. “Mason’s season was legendary, but the leadership and buy-in from the seniors as a whole was special.”
From setting the tone in practice to delivering in crunch time, this group will be remembered for raising the standard at San Juan Hills.
Looking Ahead: A Future Fueled by Hunger
Even with the departure of Hodges, the Stallions aren’t hitting reset — they’re reloading.
“We seem to have a group of returners who are hungry and want to make their own dent,” said Efstathiou. “They’ve seen what it takes to compete at the highest level.”
With Adam Aziz leading the charge and a core of young players eager to step into larger roles, the program is poised to stay competitive and hungry in the seasons to come.
Offseason Focus: Strength, Size, and Preparation
Coach Efstathiou has one clear goal this offseason: build the bodies.
“We need to spend a lot of time in the weight room,” he explained. “Size and strength will be crucial for our returning players to take the next step.”
That physical development, combined with skill work and team chemistry, will be the keys to ensuring another successful campaign next winter.
Final Thoughts
The 2024–2025 season was one of the most memorable in San Juan Hills basketball history. From individual greatness to collective perseverance, this team showed what’s possible when talent meets toughness.
With stars like Mason Hodges setting the standard and leaders like Adam Aziz ready to carry the torch, the Stallions are not only proud of what they’ve done — they’re focused on what comes next.
For full stats, visit San Juan Hills’ team page on MaxPreps.
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