Returning starters look to lead boys’ basketball to postseason
In the 2023-2024 season, the Samo boys’ basketball team finished their year strong, ending with a 16-13 record overall. A 4-6 record in the league allowed them an at-large playoff bid in the CIF-SS playoffs. Seeded against a tough Westlake team, the Vikings fought hard until they were eliminated with a final score of 71-49 in the first round of playoffs.
Entering the new season, Samo strives towards a new goal of playing more deep into the playoffs, hoping for a CIF championship. With the return of three starting players, Jaylen Smith (’25) and Xavier Seldon (’25), and captain Brenton Banister (’25 ) they look to use their returning experience and gain leadership through the squad. As head coach James Hecht looks to return for his 31st year coaching Samo, he shares his thoughts about his goals going into the season.
”Our goals for the season is to work to be the best team we can be collectively and try to get a little better every day. Hopefully, our seniors can use their experience, leadership, and mentorship to be an extension of the coaching staff on the court. We want to play on the last day of the season, and we have a lot of work ahead of us trying to keep the mindset of trying to get better every day,” Hecht said.
With the new season, Samo looks to face new opponents in a different league this year. Due to annual realignment, leagues in California shift to ensure equal balance in competition, allowing each school a fair shot at playoffs. The Vikings look to compete for an Ocean League championship with the new league, which would put them in a good position for the CIF playoffs. Brenton Banister (’25) a returning starter, has the team's future set bright, winning a league championship and extending their season into CIF.
“I feel this season is gonna go well, and we have a lot of great guys on the team. We try to get better every day, telling our guys there's always room for improvement and we can be great as long as we are competing. We hope to win our new league, and make a run in CIF,” Banister said.
The Vikings currently have a 6-4 record, with a recent 68-53 home win over Calabasas. With two out of three games won at home, Samo goes on a road trip, facing their next opponent Centennial Compton on Dec. 18.