December 1st 2024.
The start of De La Salle's season was nothing short of spectacular. In a game against Crespi at Dublin High School, the Spartans put on a show in front of two former Golden State Warriors players, Matt Barnes and Derek Fisher. With impressive precision and skill, De La Salle dominated the game, winning 71-53. The former NBA players could do nothing but watch as Oklahoma commit Alec Blair led the way with 22 points, six rebounds, and six assists. Even Crespi's coach, Derek Fisher, a former NBA point guard, couldn't find a way to stop De La Salle's offense as they shot an impressive 67% from the field.
Despite the NBA legends in attendance, De La Salle remained focused on the game at hand. In fact, Blair didn't pay much attention to their presence, stating that he's played in front of big names like LeBron James and Chris Paul since he was in fourth grade. Head coach Marcus Schroeder echoed this sentiment, saying that while it was an honor to have these players watching, the team's main focus was on themselves and showcasing their talents.
From the very beginning, De La Salle had control of the game. Their hot shooting gave them an early lead, and they never looked back. Blair's perfectly timed pass to Ibrahim Monawar resulted in a highlight-worthy play that solidified De La Salle's dominance. By halftime, they had a comfortable 14-point lead thanks to back-to-back 3-pointers from David Balogun and Bryce Patton.
The Spartans didn't let up in the second half, continuing to pour on the points. Braddock Kjellesvig's layup gave them a 20-point lead, and they extended it even further in the fourth quarter, reaching a 22-point lead with a contested 3-pointer from Mitchell Herring. This impressive win was a testament to De La Salle's talent and experience, with 11 seniors leading the way.
Coach Schroeder praised his team's experience, stating that many of them have been in the program for four years and have a deep understanding of the game. He also mentioned that they have a strong desire to win and will do whatever it takes to achieve their goals.
The presence of former NBA players wasn't limited to just the stands, as some also took part in coaching. Matt Barnes, holding his two-month-old son, watched as his former team, Salesian, beat Beverly Hills in the Bishop O'Dowd Thanksgiving Showcase. Alvin Loving led the way for Salesian with 12 points, and they will face Ygnacio Valley next. The No. 5 ranked San Ramon Valley didn't have the same luck, suffering a heartbreaking loss to Lincoln-Stockton in overtime. Despite leading by 10 points in the first half, they struggled to maintain their lead and ultimately fell short. Mason Thomas and Thomas Conley were the top scorers for San Ramon Valley with 18 points each.
No. 9 ranked Ygnacio Valley had a strong start to their season, defeating Branson with a standout performance from star point guard Antonio Kellogg Jr., who had 16 points, four rebounds, two assists, and two steals. Shooting guard Todd Tamtom Jr. also had an impressive game with 14 points, and coach Michael Woolridge praised the team's experienced guards. He also noted the emergence of Preston Oliver, who had 16 points and a strong defensive presence. Oliver didn't see much playing time last season but has worked hard to improve his game and become a valuable member of the team.
No. 10 ranked St. Ignatius had an easy win against Vanden in their season opener, shooting an impressive 64% from the field. Junior Raymond Whitley led the way with 28 points, and he praised the team's offensive execution. No. 11 ranked Clayton Valley also had a strong start to their season, beating Weston Ranch behind a double-double from Elijah Perryman, who had 24 points and 11 rebounds. Jett Tran, a transfer from Lowell, also had a solid game with 17 points, and coach Frank Allocco Jr. is excited about the team's depth and playmakers.
In other exciting matchups, No. 18 ranked Dublin had a close 57-55 win against Destiny Christian, led by junior forward Cameron Anderson's 16 points and 10 rebounds. Two-sport standout Damien Miles had a standout performance for Granada, scoring 21 points in their win against Sacramento Charter. With strong performances from a variety of teams, the start of the high school basketball season has been nothing short of thrilling.
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