Being able to accept a certain role on a team, no matter how small, has been missing from basketball the past few years. Second-year head coach and long-time assistant Tony Espinoza says his team is more willing to do what it takes to win than teams in the past.

Coming off an average season, last year’s team had a lot of talent but was more about “I,” Espinoza said. “This year’s team is more accepting of the team approach, rather than the individual approach.”

The ability to compete has replaced the egotistic ways of teams in the past. “(This team) is real close to one of the most competitive,” Espinoza said. “More so because they’re willing to put in the time and are more accepting of their roles.”

Benny Flores and Patrick Farris, each of whom started as a sophomore, are the only two returning starters. Joining them will most likely be Keith Davis, Steven Russell and Dominic Perry.

“Our goal is to come together as a team,” Russell said. “Also to make the playoffs.”



Flores receives much praise from his coach. “He’s ‘the guy,’” Espinoza said. “A lot of our success lies with his ability to lead.”

With the split of the leagues taking place, the Tri-City Athletic League is the most rigorous. West hasn’t has a losing season in 10 years and Edison and St. Mary’s both qualified for playoffs last year. To top it off, Tokay is ranked in the top 25 in the state. “It’s going to be difficult every night,” Espinoza said.

Espinoza has taken athletic director responsibilities since last year and has been overwhelmed by the tasks. “I have a commitment to the guys,” he said. “I told them that being AD would not take time away from coaching.”