Head coach: Tim Kennedy
2011-12 record: 31-3, Division II state champions
Aaron Gordon capped a spectacular junior season by piling up 33 points and 20 rebounds in the Division II state championship game.
Photo by David Steutel
(6-8, Sr., F),
Brandon Farrell (6-6, Sr., F),
Brandon Abajelo (6-3, Sr., G/F),
Connor Peterson (6-2, Jr., G),
Dakari Monroe (5-11, So., G)
Strengths: After putting up more than 22 points and 12 boards per game as a junior while winning State Player of the Year honors, Gordon has a chance to go down as one of California's most decorated hoopers ever with another big season. He is regarded as the No. 5 overall senior prospect in America by MaxPreps. While the other four starters from 2011-12 are gone, the cupboard is never empty at Mitty as the program has averaged 27-plus wins per season since 2005. Farrell, Abajelo and Peterson gained experience a year ago and big things are expected from Monroe, who also had some bright moments on the gridiron this fall.
Question marks: Can Gordon avoid mononucleosis this season? Some sarcasm intended there, but the Monarchs lost all three games a year ago while he battled through sickness and lost 10-15 pounds. The strain could increase this season as programs like Washington, Kentucky, Arizona, Kansas and Oregon scrap for his attention.
