Projected boys hoop finishes

Boys
Mission Trail Athletic League
1. Stevenson: All-leaguers Tucker Forbes and Chris Jaeger are averaging a combined 32.1 points a game.
2. Carmel: Ignore the 0-7 start in the preseason, and never discount a team that Devin Pearson is a part off.
3. King City: This is as athletic of a team as the Mustangs have had since their title run in 2002.
4. Pacific Grove: The 0-5 non-league start wasn't encouraging. But its size could create mismatches in the MTAL.
5. Marina: Will the Mariners have 3-point county record holder Ricardo Esparza-Ponce for the start of league?
6. Soledad: Will some of the school's success in football and baseball rub off on the hardwood?
7. Gonzales: It's been five years since the Spartans had a winning season and reached the playoffs.
8. Greenfield: The Bruins have never had a winning season since the school opened.

Monterey Bay League
1. Monterey: Depth is an issue. But this program has no excuses this year.
2. Watsonville: The defending champions still have 6-foot-7 Ivo Basor and shooting guard Lamar Cowans.
3. Seaside: What Seaside lacks in height, it makes up with explosiveness and tenacious defense.
4. Monte Vista: Be aware of Josh Mooney, who averaged nearly 25 points a game last year.
5. Christopher: Three games decided by three points or less in non-league play.
6. Pajaro Valley: Will be difficult to take a step forward in the MBL.
7. North County: Might be the most improved team in the county.

Tri-County Athletic League
1. Palma: Don't be mislead by the non-league record. There were no creampuffs.
2. San Benito: My darkhorse team in the TCAL behind Jordan Belton.
3. Salinas: The defending TCAL champions still have the lunch pale attitude and a big man in the middle.
4. North Salinas: Did the Vikings gain enough confidence in the preseason to make an TCAL run?
5. Alvarez: Keeping its core on the court is critical down the stretch.
6. Alisal: The House of Thrills is going through growing pains.
7. Gilroy: Won't be able to outscore teams like last year.