Central Valley Senior ShowCase 2016

@ Pitman High: Thursday, March 24, 2016

A special publication of the TURLOCK JOURNAL

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The Tradition Continues

BY FRANKIE TOVAR

The Central Valley Senior Showcase was conceived as a new tradition for players, coaches, parents, and basketball fans alike in the area.

After years of covering high school basketball teams, we decided to pool together the top senior talent from said teams and let them loose on the court one final time. We figured it would be a great chance for them to showcase their talent and in the process get to know and play with their counterparts from different schools.

Last year the teams were regulated to eight schools covered by the Turlock Journal and Ceres Courier— Turlock High, Pitman High, Turlock Christian High, Hil-

FRANKIE TOVAR TURLOCK JOURNAL

mar High, Delhi High, Denair High, Ceres High, and Central Valley High. Those teams have returned this year and are joined by the additions of Oakdale High and Hughson High. 39 players in total from ten different schools, some rivals and others complete strangers, each linked by these games and a desire to compete.

This is exactly what we envisioned when we began coordinating this event. We wanted to new athletic tradition that would grow each year, getting bigger and bet-

ter before eventually becoming a community standard.

With more than double the amount of scholarships available for the players and increased enthusiasm from the City of Turlock and its businesses, we think we’re well on our way towards accomplishing that goal.

The Turlock Journal is proud to bring you this jampacked event complete with girls and boys games, performances by local dancers, a 3-point shooting contest, raffle prizes galore, and a halftime TV shooting contest.

Thank you for coming out to experience the 2nd Annual Central Valley Senior Showcase. We hope you enjoy the event as much as we enjoyed planning it.

Central Valley Senior Showcase Girls 5:30pm; Boys 7:15pm

Coaches:

Donations:

RJ Henderson Edgar Lopez Dustin Curtiss Mark Musselman

Crime Tech Security Jura’s Pizza Parlor Dustbowl Brewing Co. Yonan’s Floral Yonan’s Jewelers Green Grub Lisa’s Cookie Jar Envy Fine Clothing Beautiful Reflection & Day Spa Dean’s Pizza Pizza Factory Alquist Arms Lulu’s Ice Cream Parlor & Treatery Downtown Turlock Association Planet Beach Blown Away Salon & Spa El Charro GNC Salon Rouge Fairfield Inn & Suites

List of Sponsors Platinum: Hilmar Cheese Company 51Fifty Energy Drink Oak Valley Community Bank Emanuel Medical Center Assyrian American Civic Club Silver: Applegate Teeples

And a very special thanks to the City of Turlock for throwing its full supports behind the 2nd Annual Central Valley Senior Showcase!

Emanuel Medical Center is proud to support the best and brightest senior basketball players from the area.

In such a tight-knit community, it’s always important to acknowledge greatness – and the student athletes on display here today certainly deserve our admiration and respect.

Congratulations to all of the participants!

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Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Nicole Bates

Alize Tyler

Ceres High

Pitman High

My name is Nicole Bates and I am a senior at Ceres High School. I have been playing basketball for 9 years and softball for 14. Sports have always played a huge role in my life and luckily I was blessed with an older brother to look up to and to learn from. Aside from my supportive parents, my brother pushed me at a young age to play basketball and softball. Growing up, I was surrounded by boys and I was always competing with them in wiffle ball, wall ball, basketball, you name it. My freshman year I verbally committed to the University of Washington in order to further my education while playing softball. I have been traveling around the U.S playing the sport that I love for 9 years and it is crazy that after this year, my teammates and I will be spread across the entire country. With the endless support of my parents, coaches, and teammates I will be playing softball at the school of my dreams in mere months. I cannot thank my parents enough for their endless support with all of those late nights and early softball mornings.

What’s your most memorable moment on the basketball court?

My most memorable moment on the basketball court is my junior year when I took all those charges.

College: MJC

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What player do you model your game after?

I model my game after Kelsey Plum She plays for the University of Washington, and I really look up to her.

College: University of Washington

Katie Oliver

Alyssa Costa

Denair High

Central Valley High

I was born and raised in the town of Denair. Attended Hickman School from kindergarten to eighth grade and have been enrolled at Denair since freshman year. I played softball pretty much my whole life up until my freshman year when I was introduced to volleyball and basketball and chose to focus on those two sports. I had always enjoyed playing the game of basketball and knew my my height was a huge advantage but never really felt a passionate connection for the game until I met my coach.

She taught me things that improved my game immediately and completely changed my level of confidence and the way I saw myself on the court and off. Playing the game became more than just another day sport I play. Basketball became one of the very few things that I can’t live without. I couldn’t have asked for better support from my family at my games cheering me on and being my biggest fans. My senior year of playing basketball for the Denair Coyotes has been incredible and I can’t wait to start the next chapter of my life in college.

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My name is Alyssa Costa and I plan to attend CSU Stanislaus and major in Psychology. I have been playing basketball since I was 10 years old. Ever since then, I fell in love with the game. Basketball means everything to me.

Because I’ve been playing since I was young, I’ve learned respect, discipline and responsibility. Throughout my years of experience, I’ve gained so many new friendships. I was able to travel and explore new places such as Long Beach, Chico, Anaheim, Cal Berkeley, Reno and San Diego. I want to thank my parents for always being there for me and supporting me throughout all the long tournament weekends. I also want to thank all the coaches and people who have supported me throughout my journey.

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What player do you model your game after?

Draymond Green College: Stan State

What will you miss most about high school basketball?

I will mostly miss all of the laughs with my coach and teammates that I’ve had all season.

College: Stan State

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Central Valley Senior Showcase Colleen Ibasco

Mikayla Mabie

Oakdale High

Central Valley High

I have been playing basketball for 8 years now.

Throughout the course of my career, I have played for a few other teams besides the schools I attended like for CVYBA Hornets (2 seasons), AAU Modesto Magic (2 seasons), AAU Screaming Eagles (1 season). While in high school, I was moved up to JV in 9th grade and then moved up to Varsity in 10th grade. I have been up on Varsity ever since and I couldn’t be any more thankful. I had the opportunity to go to a Maximum Exposure camp during 11th grade, and it’s the only camp I’ve ever went to. Also throughout the course of my career, I have gotten a few awards along the way: Most Valuable (8th grade/ school), Most Improved (9th grade/CVYBA), Most Defensive (9th grade/school), Most Improved (11th grade/school), Coach’s Award & Sharpshooter (12th grade).

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What’s your most memorable moment on the basketball court?

When my teammate Micaela Maaske’s pass made it through three Hughson defenders which led to the game-winning, buzzer beater lay-up!

My name is Mikayla Mabie, I am a 4 year varsity player with a lot knowledge of this beautiful game all of us girls and boys are playing in tonight, I was raised on a basketball court day and night from the time I was just a couple of cells in my moms big belly. This game has shaped me into the young woman I am today and it’s brought me so much love into my life. I am beyond grateful to have been apart of a team that gets to see 2016 on the banner in our gym for league champs. Some may know me as little mabie or baby mabie, and as fast as I wanted those names to go, now they will forever be cherished. This game tonight might only be an hour long but the game called basketball will be with me for a lifetime.

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What will you miss most about high school basketball?

The atmosphere of a family and knowing that it will always be there for you. The love that goes into that ball every time you touch it.

College: Undecided

College: Undecided

Alexis Smith

Katie Willett

Turlock Christian High

Pitman High

My name is Alexis Smith and I am 18 years old. This marks my 4th year playing varsity basketball and my 2nd year playing for Turlock Christian High School. It has been a fun year and our team has grown so much together.

After the basketball season ends, I will move on to play for TC’s varsity softball team. Outside of basketball I am involved with 4H, FFA, and ASB. My 4H and FFA projects include welding/ metal working, swine, photography, cooking, rabbit, and breeding beef. My plans for college are not yet set in stone. Although I am positive that I would like to go into the field of agriculture, I am not yet sure what career path I will work towards. I do plan on attending either Modesto Junior College or Cal Poly San Luis Obispo as an Agricultural Business major for the Fall 2016 semester.

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What player do you model your game after?

I don’t model my game after any player. I try to work my hardest, work with my team, and show sportsmanship.

College: Undecided

I started playing basketball in 7th grade. I didn’t know much about the sport but I tried out for the Dutcher team and I made it. During 7th and 8th grade I fouled out most of the time, but as I moved to JV my first year of high school I learned how to play aggressively without picking up cheap fouls. The next three years on varsity helped me grow as a player and as a person. My senior season was the best season I have ever experienced, thanks to an amazing team. We were able to connect on and off the court, and made it to playoffs. This was a huge improvement from previous seasons, and I am so thankful I was able to end my high school career with such a successful season.

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What player do you model your game after?

‘The Bird Man’ College: Undecided

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Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Meghan Hopkins

Morgan Nunes

Turlock High

Turlock High

I started playing basketball when I was in seventh grade in junior high. I never understood the rules and travelled constantly, but, for some odd reason, was still given plenty of playing time. My current basketball coach, coach Mark Mussleman, who has influenced me far beyond just the court, came to the program when I was a sophomore.

Knowing my love for soccer, he would joke with me saying, “You’re better at playing basketball with your feet than with your hands”. Without him, I wouldn’t be able to do the fundamentals of basketball such as shooting properly or dribbling with control. I am more than thankful for everything he has done for me and our program. These last few years have meant a lot to me as my passion for basketball and devotion to becoming a better athlete have increased. Im thankful to all my friends, family, coaches, and teammates who have supported me and trained me to get me to this point. Without them, I would not have the privilege of playing in this rewarding game. I’m truly blessed to have been able to play an amazing game with an amazing group of girls who have made my high school basketball career unforgettable. I love you all! #WARDOGS

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My name is Morgan Nunes I am a senior at Turlock High School. I’ve been involved in many activities and sports throughout my life such as soccer, volleyball, softball, basketball, dance, and FFA, but basketball has always been my passion. I started playing basketball when I was 7 years old and continued to play all four years of high school. I wouldn’t be the basketball player or the person I am today with out all the support from my parents. Throughout high school basketball I made so many awesome friends that I can call family and made so many memories I will never forget. I am so excited to see what next year has in store for me!

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Who/what is your greatest inspiration?

My greatest inspiration is my dad. He inspires me to want to get better. I always look forward to talking to him after my games. Even after tough ones, he always knows what to say and how to cheer me up.

College: Undecided

What will you miss the most about high school basketball?

My teammates and all the crazy things we did on and off the court.

College: Undecided

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Central Valley Senior Showcase

Meghan Mark

Cassie Balswick

Turlock Christian High

Turlock Christian High

My name is Meghan Mark and I have been playing basketball since the 6th grade as well as volleyball and soccer.

Sports have always been a big part of my life and will continue to be. I plan on attending Grand Canyon University in the fall of 2016 and will major in Kinesiology. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my friends, coaches, and most importantly my family. They are huge supporters in everything I do and I am more than thankful for the young woman they have made me to be. Hebrews 12:1-2: “Since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.”

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My name is Cassie Balswick and I am a senior at Turlock Christian High School. I’ve played basketball since I was 10 years old and I enjoy the game. I will be attending Vanguard University of Southern California next year where I will join the softball program. I am so excited for what my future holds.

What will you miss the most about high school basketball?

My amazing teammates

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College: Vanguard University

What player do you model your game after?

I model my game after my dad, Eddie Sai, because his passion for basketball didn’t stop after high school. He still played and is currently coaching because of his love for the game and his desire to never give up.

College: Grand Canyon University

Mikayla Yagi

Micaela Maaske

Turlock Christian High

Oakdale High

Hello, My name is Mikayla Yagi. I am a forward for Turlock Christian High’s Girls Varsity Basketball team. In addition to basketball I play Volleyball and run in Track, outside of sports I am the ASB Vice president. Ever since I was little I have always been in sports because I had so much energy as a kid. Today I continue participating because it has developed into one of my passions. I love going out on the court and playing the game with my team mates.

It truly is a bond that is irreplaceable . It is thrilling to know that when I step on the court I am part of something bigger then myself, I am apart of a team that has the same goal in mind. It has been such a fun four years being able to represent my school on the court, but I am excited for my journey ahead.

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Who/what is your greatest inspiration?

My mother because she is a selfless person and a hard worker. She is what I try to resemble on the court for my team.

College: San Diego State

I am currently a senior at Oakdale High School. My goal is to continue to play basketball at the college level and continue to develop as a student-athlete on and off the basketball court. I started playing basketball in the seventh grade. I played on the freshman basketball team at Oakdale High. After my freshman year I was awarded the team’s “Most Valuable Player” award. I was moved up to varsity my sophomore year and was a starter on varsity for three years. After my sophomore season I was awarded the “Most Improved Player” award. After my junior season I received our teams “Mustang Award”. At the start of my senior year I changed positions from the post to the wing.

I was just awarded the “Most Improved Player” award this season. In addition to the team recognitions that I received following my junior year I was selected as “honorable Mention” in Valley Oak League. I have played two seasons of travel basketball for the Modesto Magic Elite teams coached by Robb Spencer. I love the game and wish to continue playing at the college level.

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What will you miss most about high school basketball?

Being a lady Mustang and representing my school College: Undecided

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Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Selena Ortiz

Mika Jimenez

Denair High

Pitman High

My name is Selena Ortiz. I am currently a senior at Denair high school, and I am 18 yrs. Old. I was born in Turlock but raised in Denair. I have been attending Denair since preschool. Even though it’s a small town I love it because most of my classmates have turned into family. I started playing basketball when I was 11 years old. I also play volleyball and soccer but, I have always put more dedication to basketball. My last season of playing basketball I earned MVP and also got 2nd All-league.`Im going to continue to play college ball at mjc with my best friend Katie Oliver and then transfer to a university.

I want to thank my Coach Taryn Garza for giving me confidence on the court and making me a better player I can’t thank her enough for everything she has done for me. She made my senior year memorable and the best season ever.

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I’ve been playing basketball for almost 14 years now and there’s not a word that I can use to define how passionate I am about the game. All I know is it’s all about having fun and never losing the love. I’ve put in thousands of hours training and I will continue m y journey at Menlo College.

I am so thankful that I have the opportunity to continue to develop myself in basketball. My goal is to block out all the negativity and focus on the positive because I can’t go wrong with that.

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What player do you model your game after?

Russell Westbrook College: Menlo University

Who/what is your greatest inspiration?

My greatest inspiration is my coach Taryn Garza. She has shown me that if you put in hard work in what you want you will achieve your goals.

College: Army

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Central Valley Senior Showcase

Sydney Nightengale

Faith Pattee

Delhi High

Turlock High

I am Sydney Nightengale, currently a senior at Delhi High School and have played basketball for four consecutive years along with tennis for three years. This year I had the honor of serving as a Co-Team Captain. Although I may not be the best at the sports, I enjoy being a member of the team and all of the amazing memories that come along with it. Along with sports I am also an officer in our first year FFA Chapter, which is coming along quite well.

After high school I plan on joining the US Navy and seeing where that takes me.

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What will you miss most about high school basketball?

I will miss my team the most. I was a part of an amazing team. I will miss the overall experience.

College: US Navy

I’m Faith Pattee and I go to Turlock High School. I’m 18 years old. I have been playing basketball since I was in 7th grade at Denair Middle School. I wasn’t sure about playing, but I tried out anyways. I ended up loving basketball when I got to high school. I was very nervous because I was going from a very small school to a big school. Going to Turlock was a great experience and I met some amazing teammates. We spent a lot of hours together and made some great memories. Tournaments where we got to spend the night were my favorite. My four years playing basketball had some ups and downs, but overall I couldn’t have been happier. I couldn’t have done it without my parents. They have supported me from day one. I can’t wait to see what my future holds.

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What’s your most memorable moment on the basketball court?

My most memorable moment on the basketball court is when I hit a buzzer-beater in double overtime to win the game against Merced.

College: MJC

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Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Oscar Moreno

Ricky Heidelbach

Turlock High

Turlock High

I’m the 3rd son of Juan Moreno and Maria Navarrete. I have 2 older brothers and a younger brother; I was born on November 5 1997 in Chicago, Illinois. I lived there for approximately 5 years until we moved back to Mexico.

I grew up in Puebla, Mexico. My mom was always trying to enroll me to all kind of sports and activities. Everything started one day that I decided to go and practice with one of my friends that wanted me to join the team. I used to play other sports just for fun, but for some reason after that day I decided to dedicate myself to this sport, I was 11 years old back then, but I knew I had found my passion.

Years later, I received a full scholarship from a private high school. We went on to win the National Championship and I met some of my best friends, including the guy who invited me to come here, Habib Velasquez. And here I am, so far from home but I never regret the day I came because I’ve met so many great people and all thanks to basketball and the people that had supported me all along.

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What’s your most memorable moment on the basketball court?

I’ve had many good moments but definitely one of the most memorable was winning the National Championship with my high school team in Mexico.

My name is Ricky Heidelbach. I’m 17 years old and I’m a senior at Turlock High. I have played basketball since I was 8 years old. I’ve played for Turlock high all of high school and we won the league championship in back to back years on varsity. This last year I earned a second team all league award. Playing basketball has made me great friends, coaches, and people that I’ll know forever. These people have left a mark on me and have made me a better person. I’ve made memories just by being apart of basketball teams, especially Turlock, that I’ll never forget and I’m thankful for everyone that’s made my basketball life better and have supported me through the years. Especially my parents who have always told me that I can do whatever I want and have always supported me to get better. Without them I don’t know if I would’ve ever been serious about playing basketball. I plan on continuing playing basketball in college.

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What will you miss the most about high school basketball?

I’ll miss the atmosphere and my teammates the most.

College: Cabrillo College

College: Undecided

Guramun Takhar

Isaac Starks

Pitman High

Denair High

I started off my athletic career at the age of five. I played in the soccer league TYSA for a solid twelve years. Also, I played basketball for Turlock Youth League for two years.

Then I transitioned into the youth basketball league named Upward. I played in Upward for four years. I also played Turlock Little League Baseball for five years. Then I played two years of basketball in middle school for Turlock Junior High School. After that I played four amazing years of basketball at John H. Pitman High School. While playing high school basketball, I also played one season of AAU travel basketball. To cap it all off, I coached two seasons of Turlock Youth League Basketball. Personally, I have learned a lot from these experiences and I have had great coaches and teammates. I would do this all over again in a heartbeat.

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What’s your most memorable moment on the basketball court?

My game clinching steal against Turlock High in our home playoff game College: Stan State

My name is Isaac James Amery Starks. I was born 05-091998. I grew up with my mom Nena, my older brother Rick and my little brother Nik. I first started school in Turlock then my mom bought us a house in Denair. The first sport I participated in was soccer. I played for the Turlock Tornados for four years, even making it to number eight at state cup. I played basketball in seventh and eighth grade. When I got into High School I decided that’s what I wanted to do. I played JV my Freshmen year, then moved up to Varsity my Sophomore year. I have proven to myself that hard work and dedication pay off. I love the game and I know I will continue to play even after High School. I plan to go to school and study Kinesiology. I want to work with other athletes and help them over come any physical obstacles that may hinder their ability to perform at their best. This has been an amazing year for me. I have accomplished goals that I set for myself and am proud to say I did what I set out to do.

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What player do you model your game after?

I model my game after Stephen Curry. To me, he is one of my inspirations because no matter what he does work to accomplish his goals whether it is on or off the court, and plus, the guy is really good.

College: UC Santa Cruz

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Central Valley Senior Showcase

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What’s your most memorable moment on the basketball court?

My most memorable moment on the basketball court was beating Orestimba to clinch a playoff spot.

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College: Fresno State

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Brock Tate Hilmar High Born and raised in Hilmar, I have attended Hilmar schools since the beginning. I have been raised on sports, showing animals and travel. Academically, I have been in the Dual Immersion Program and will receive a Spanish bi-literacy seal on my high school diploma. I have a 4.2 GPA and will attend Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo University in the Fall. I will be majoring in Ag Business and pursuing a career in an Agricultural field. Hilmar High Sports… Football 4 yrs., Basketball 4 yrs. and Baseball 3 yrs. A member of Hilmar FFA all 4 years of high school while showing dairy and poultry. Also, a member of our campus FCA group and part of the Leadership Team at Hilmar High. I have 2 younger brothers… Jonas (16) and Will (14). I enjoyed playing this basketball season with my brother Jonas a sophomore on the Varsity team. I’m honored to play in this game and looking forward to the competition. My Parents… Karen and Brett Tate

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What will you miss the most about high school basketball?

Competing with my friends for my hometown school College: Cal Poly

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Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Mathew Shuayuto

Dominique Zendejas

Hughson High

Turlock Christian High

I am a 6”3’ senior at Hughson High School. Throughout my years of playing basketball I have played multiple positions, including center and power forward. I have a great work ethic both on and off the court, always giving 110%.

I have earned different awards including Most Improved, MVP and Sportsmanship. I consider myself an aggressive rebounder, a great defender and have a great passion for the game. I am honored to have been invited to participate in the 2016 Senior Showcase. I am looking forward to working hard and showing everyone what I was meant to do.

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What’s your most memorable moment on the basketball court?

Hitting the game-winning free throws against Riverbank my freshman year and shutting up the crowd.

I’m a senior at Turlock Christian High. I played four years of varsity football, 2 years varsity basketball, and 4 years of varsity baseball. I hold 2 rushing records for football and I’m the school’s All-Time Leading Rusher. Basketball was never my main sport but basketball has taught me a lot about life through the coaching staff at our school. I plan to attend Sacramento State University and get my degree in either Business Management or Criminal Justice (Law Enforcement).

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Who/what is your greatest inspiration?

The people who inspire me re m parents because all they want is the very best for me and I’ll do everything to succeed for them.

College: Sac State

College: MJC

Alec Cano

Micah Millentree

Hilmar High

Pitman High

My name is Alec Cano and I am finishing up my senior year at Hilmar High School. I’m a three year varsity starter who has played organized AAU basketball since the 4th grade. I have earned TVL first team all-league honors my junior and senior years as well as TVL Scholar Athlete. I am still undecided on which 4 year college I would like to attend (San Diego, Long Beach, Sonoma State, Stanislaus or Monterey Bay) but my major will be in Kinesiology with a concentration in leadership/coaching or physical therapy.

I am most grateful for my family who supports me, my high school teammates who made basketball fun and the half court game winner I hit vs. Escalon.

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What’s your most memorable moment on the basketball court?

Hitting a half-court, game-winning shot vs. Escalon on homecoming this year.

College: Undecided

I started competitively playing basketball when I was in 7th grade and have been playing ever since. I’ve always loved the game of basketball it has always been my favorite sport. I’ve always thought of it the way my uncle described it to me as a swag sport, meaning you got to have swag when you play basketball. My junior year I wasn’t able to play basketball due to an ankle injury that led to needing surgery. That experience really helped me appreciate my senior season more, because I knew that I was blessed to even be able to play and it really motivated me to give it my all and just have fun with it no matter what numbers I put up. Some one I have always looked up to for basketball and always will look up to is my dad. In high school my dad was the MVP of his team and was known for dunking in his games as a senior. I have always admired this and wanted to do the same, so that really made my first dunk special when he was there to witness it and I was finally like my dad.

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What’s your most memorable moment on the basketball court?

When I got my first dunk.

College: MJC

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Central Valley Senior Showcase

Habib Velasquez

Will Hilgen

Turlock High

Turlock High

My name is Habib Velasquez and I was born in Veracruz, Mexico in May 27th of 1998. I’m the youngest son of Miguel Velasquez and Leonila Higuera. I play basketball since I was 12 years old. On the summer of 2013 I received a scholarship to play for a top private high school in Puebla Mexico so I moved from home. I won the Mexican National Championship in 2014 and the National Championship for private high schools in the same year. I was chosen to play for my national team twice and I was selected to participate in the NBA Americas Team Camp in Toronto, Canada (2014). I moved to the US in the fall of 2014 and I played Varsity Basketball for Turlock High School both my junior and senior year. We won the Central California Conference in 2015 and in the present year. I was honored with receiving 2nd team All-Conference my junior year and 1st team All-Conference my senior year. I’m still deciding where I will go to college next year but I will definitely continue with my basketball career and later on become a certified psychologist.

My name is William Edward Hilgen lll. I attend Turlock High and played Varsity 2 years and was the starting guard both years. My parents are William Hilgen and Martha Hilgen. I’ve been playing basketball since I was 7 years old and started playing competitively in the 5th grade and loved it ever since. Basketball has always been there for me through good and bad times, it has always been my getaway. My parents have had a huge impact on my life with them teaching me to never give up and to always do my best no matter what the situation is. Another huge impact on my life has been Coach TJ Walker, he taught me a lot in a short amount of time, he always told me to do my best because you never know who is watching. That helped me a lot because at any given moment anything could change for better or for worse. When I found out that he passed I was devastated but the knowledge he provided with me will never be forgotten because I saw this more than just a game. I see myself playing this game until I can’t no more.

What’s your most memorable moment on the basketball court?

Winning the Mexican National Championship and bring selected to participate in the NBA Americas Team Camp.

Who/what is your greatest inspiration?

My greatest inspirations are my parents because they always want me to strive to be the best.

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College: Undecided

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College: MJC

Jando Diaz

Chris Hanham

Pitman High

Pitman High

Growing up I was surrounded by basketball. Basketball grew to not only be my hobby but my passion. My inspiration has always been my older brother who loved the game and always did more then what he was asked to do because he wanted to be the best he could be. That is now my goal, to be the best that I can be. These 4 years of my high school basketball career have been amazing and I have done my best every day. I plan to continue playing basketball in college and I can’t wait for that journey to begin.

A

What’s your most memorable moment on the basketball court?

Winning the Godinez tournament and getting MVP of the tournament as my brother did about 10 years ago.

College: Undecided

I have been playing basketball since I was 6 years old, and ever since than it has been my favorite sport. I got into basketball because it was the sport my dad played and I wanted to be like him. He helped me improve my game and I believe my game is modeled almost completely after him. After a couple years of playing for “fun” and seeing how good I was, I decided to start playing travel. This took my game to a new level and helped me decide that I want to pursue a collegiate basketball career. After four years of playing basketball at Pitman High School, I, along with my teammates are proud to say that we won our school’s first ever CCC title and went undefeated at home which also has never been done at pitman. Basketball holds some of my most cherished memories that I will never forget.

A

What’s your most memorable moment on the basketball court?

Winning the CCC for the first time in school history.

College: Undecided

13

Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Austin Stiles

Adrian Valladares

Ceres High

Delhi High

My name is Austin Stiles I am the son of Sam and Meliesa Stiles. I have 3 sisters, Ashlee, Alyssa, Allison and an older brother Ramon. Having 3 little sisters is probably the biggest responsibility I have. It has always been on my mind to look out for them and also to protect them. As an older brother, I have to set an example for them because all eyes were on me in the house. I have been playing the game of basketball for almost my whole life. I started playing basketball at the age of 4 in the city league called Ceres Hoopsters, after that was when I moved onto a travel team, called Modesto Blast and this is where my love and passion all started. My Coach’s name was Dennis Seeley and he is the one that helped make me the player i am today, he built a motor in me that would never quit, I spent countless hours in the gym with him and without him.

This motor that he built in me is still running in me today, as I am constantly working.

He taught me to never give up on what I wanted and showed me that i could be the best at whatever it may be track, football, or even basketball. I work hard so that I can be great. He taught me that it was not ok to be average. Another person that has really kept me going and helped me over the years and has been pushing and encouraging me and has had a huge impact on my life is my trainer Coach Les Bonsu, he is a great example, trainer and mentor to me. He helps me out with whatever i may need. whether it’s working on my speed, my power, my flexibility, or even just to talk, he’s always there. My family and friends that have been behind me since day one are a huge reason why I work so hard, they are at every game that I play and they are amazing and i want to thank them for their continued support . My plans after high school are to attend a 4 year college and to get my degree in kinesiology and to play football. I have been working 24/7 so that I will be ready for the next level. I just want to thank all my loved ones, friends and especially my amazing family for always having my back and for always being there.

A

My name is Adrian Valladares and I am the youngest of a family of 5 and a senior that will be graduating Delhi High School by July. In my high school career, I’ve played basketball for all 4 years, though my senior season is the one I will most remember. I am passionate about the sport of basketball, to the point where I will work myself to the point of exhaustion in both games and practices and still continue to push beyond my physical limits. It is thanks to my family, both my blood related family and my teammates, and the sacrifices they made that I was able to enjoy the phenomenal experience that is basketball. I will miss playing the sport with my friends dearly, but I hope to draw upon what I learned and use it to help aid me through my future obstacles. I will be attending UC Merced after high school where I will be the first one in my family to go to college and, in the future, the first to graduate from college.

A

What will you miss the most about high school basketball?

I will miss playing alongside my friends/teammates and having fun playing the game.

College: UC Merced

Who/what is your greatest inspiration?

My greatest motivator and coach at a young age would be coach Dennis Seeley, he taught me to love this game.

College: Undecided

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14

Central Valley Senior Showcase

Nino Ta-a

Nick Olvera

Hilmar High

Hilmar High

I was born in the Philippines and moved to California when I was 7 years old. I have gone to Hilmar since 6th grade. I have been playing basketball since I was 4 years old. Growing up in the Philippines made me fall in love with the game of basketball. Moving to the U.S enabled me to develop my basketball skills by playing AAU Basketball and attending basketball camps. I played varsity basketball at Hilmar High School for three years. I plan on attending CSU Stan this fall.

A

What will you miss the most about high school basketball?

Hanging with my teammates and the rap battles.

Ever since I was a mere child I balled so hard, so wild When they ask me what sauce... I say, “Mild” I’m not a fan of spicy stuff I could go on and on about it but at some point enough is enough My favorite color is probably blue I’m getting by with a GPA around 3.2 I wouldn’t say school is my niche, But that’s probably just how I feel I guess my own mind is in a way my own Achilles Heel

A

What will you miss most about high school basketball?

I will miss the hype

College: Stan State

College: Hawaii or AMDA

Logan Vann

Wyatt Michael

Denair High

Hughson High

I started playing basketball my freshmen year and I played all four years of my high school career. When I first started playing I wasn’t able to dribble with my left hand.

Though out the years I expanded my game with the help of my best friend Isaac Starks. We trained every day after school. My Senior year was probably my favorite out of all four years. We were 1.3 seconds away from making playoffs but lost by a buzzer beater 3. I am definitely going to miss all the fun times and team dinners with the group of guys I played with this year and wish them luck moving forward.

A

Who/what is your greatest inspiration?

My parents who have overcome many hardships and stayed shining through it all College: MJC

My name is Wyatt Michael, and here’s a little bit about myself. I attend Hughson High and after I graduate this year, I will be attending Arizona State University to pursue a major in Sports Journalism and Media. I’m a sucker for Italian food, good music, and good books, and chances are you can find me hiking and fishing on the weekends.

Basketball has been a passion of mine since I began playing in 6th grade, and while the journey has been beautiful, it’s been bittersweet realizing that it has come to an end. One thing I hope resonates with people when we high schoolers play ball is that it’s still just a game. For many of us, these are the last meaningful games we’ll play.

So when we go out there and express ourselves in fun, exuberant, modern ways, please know the goal is not to showboat or disgrace the game, but rather to enjoy ourselves for the brief bit of time we are fortunate enough to have left with this quintessential sport. Thank you to my parents and friends who have helped me along the way. Love you guys!

A

What’s your most memorable moment on the basketball court?

Receiving a technical foul for “dabbing” on the court.

College: Arizona State University

15

Wednesday, March 23, 2016

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