Bishop O'Dowd has celebrated several NorCal and North Coast Section titles in recent years, but the big prize has eluded the Dragons.
Photo by Ralph Thompson
Lou Richie (54-9 career record, third year as head coach)
2013-14 record: 28-5, North Coast Section Division III champions, CIF Open Division runner-up
KEY RETURNERSParis Austin (5-10, Sr., G)
Will Campbell (6-2, Jr., G)
Arinze Chidom (6-8, Sr., F)
Franklin Longrus(6-3, Sr., G/F)
Ivan Rabb (6-9, Sr., F)
Jeevin Sandhu (6-3, Sr., G/F)
Isaiah Thomas (6-9, Sr., F/C)
Austin Walker (5-10, Sr., G)
IMPACT NEWCOMERSNaseem Gaskins (6-0, Fr., G)
Elijah Hardy (6-0, Fr., G)
Mike Hauser (7-0, Jr., C)
Alex Zhao (6-5, Sr., F)
DRAGON STORYLINES* One of California's proudest programs, Bishop O'Dowd owns the dubious distinction of losing seven consecutive state championship games (1986, 1988, 2004, 2007, 2010, 2011 and 2014). "There is no doubt about the goal here this year," Richie said. "Win our last game of the year." With five-star forward Rabb leading a long, athletic and deep cast, that goal is well within reach.
* Chidom, who has grown 4 inches in the last year, is the brother of Duke women's basketball forward Oderah Chidom. Oderah is a sophomore in Durham and former McDonald's All-American at O'Dowd. Little brother – a 16-year-old senior – can play all five positions and defend all five positions, according to Richie.
* Even with a veteran roster in place, don't be shocked to see Hardy crack the Dragon starting lineup. "He might be the best freshman point guard in the country," Richie said.
KEY DATESNov. 29 – vs.
Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas) at NorCal Tip-Off Classic
Dec. 12 – at
Montverde Academy (Fla.)Dec. 17-20 – Iolani Classic in Honolulu
Jan. 15-17 – Bass Pro Shops Tournament of Champions in Springfield, Mo.
Jan. 19 – vs.
Wheeler (Marietta, Ga.) at Spalding Hoophall Classic
Feb. 7 – vs.
Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.) at Nike Extravaganza
