North Salinas boys basketball

North Salinas (8-17, 6-6)
 A strong start last winter in league play was dampened by a five-game losing streak to close the year, including a postseason loss.
 Graduation did strip North Salinas of two all-leaguers. A lack of size this year will force head coach Alan Green to play small ball with an up-tempo pace.
 "We need to make other teams react to our pace of play," Green said. "We'd like to control the tempo at a pace that requires a lot of substitutions to keep up with the speed of the modern game."
 Green will not be short on leadership as four seniors could see substantial time on the hardwood this winter for North Salinas.
 Justin Ferrales will be Green's vocal leader with a tenacious attitude on offense and defense, scoring 13 points in the teams opener.
 "He embodies the spirit of our team," Green said.
 Ricky Orozco gives North Salinas a presence on the perimeter with his outside shot.
 "He makes great ball decisions," Green said. "Ricky has a very high basketball IQ."
 Jorge Aguilera might be the Vikings best defensive player. He will spend time patrolling the paint on defense while Fabian Valdez will be a 6-foot shot blocker.
 "Fabian will be counted on to be the guy protecting the basket for us," Green said. "He's very athletic and will be fun to watch as his confidence grows."
 Having Guy James for a full season after an injury saddled him last season will provide depth on a team that may rely on all 13 players to provide minutes this season.
 A three sport standout that plays football and runs track, James is expected to have a big impact on the Vikings as he learns the system.
 "We will be built around depth," Green said. "All 13 players bring different talents and gifts to our program. All should see extensive playing time throughout the season."
 North Salinas did struggle early in the season, giving up 88 points to Carmel, then being held to two points in the first half against Palma.
 "We are hoping that the early schedule and our development will make us a highly competitive team once league roles around," Green said.