Jesuit has begun the year with three victories in the book against Nor Cal # 18 Dublin, perennial Sacramento area power Franklin of Elk Grove, and Bishop Manogue of Nevada.  This year’s version of the Jesuit Marauders basketball Varsity Team is hoping to accomplish big things with such a strong core returning and many new additions from last year’s lower levels. Returning Seniors starters include All City Second team Parker Uu, as well as all league Brian Glodowski, Bryce Pressley,  and four year starting point guard Akachi Okugo.

Other seniors returning are Joey Thomaas, JT Frank, and Kurt Parker, who came out of the gates fast with a 20 point game versus Dublin. They will add much needed depth and support.With so much experience returning, expectations for more cohesive play and team work is going to be crucial to the team’s success.  The additions from the lower levels include Juniors Thomas Sperbeck, Isiah King, James Avila – Ellington, and Andrew Hoy, as well as some tall sophomores in 6-8 Brady Anderson and 6-6 Lake Lutes, along with the most improved player this fall, PG Nick Hilton. Competition for minutes has proven very competitive with such a deep group.

The Marauders this year have really refocused their efforts at the little defensive details- taking charges, strong help defense, preventing the drive, contesting shots, and blocking out. Hopefully, this investment in guarding their own basket will be the needed complement to their running style and provide many easy baskets. If the first two games have shown anything, they have revealed that the Marauders have the ability to score, are unselfish with their ball movement and have so far been very entertaining to watch.

The challenging schedule should continue: Fr. Barry takes place Dec. 1-3 with one of the strongest fields yet, followed by the Gridley Tournament the next week that hosts many of NorCals top teams. The Marauders will also have some strong non-league competition, and the toughest league in Northern California. Taking second place in both league and the section finals has served as a strong motivation for this group to battle this year, and so far it has been fun. We look forward to seeing you at the games. See the basketball website for schedules.