HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL : SOUTHERN SECTION PREVIEW : HIGH-DESERT

LEAGUEParaclete

COACH: Andy Gavel, 11th season

LAST SEASON: 12-12; 2nd in Desert-Inyo Large League, 6-4

PLAYERS TO WATCH: The Spirits are prepared to challenge for the title of the league that was renamed this year when two new teams were added and one was removed. All-league senior off-guard Sean O’Gara (5-foot-11) averaged 9.6 points last season. He is a gifted shooter and plays aggressive defense. O’Gara once again will team with junior point guard Brendan Carberry (5-11) to form a strong backcourt for the Spirits. Junior forward Ruffin Crozat (6-2), who averaged seven points last season, is expected to be an offensive force. Senior forward Brian Lathrop (6-0) is a good shooter and team leader. Senior Mike Salser (6-5) and sophomore Matt Phelan (6-3, 275) will split time at center. Junior swingman John Birk (6-3) should provide scoring and defense off the bench.

OUTLOOK: “Our bench is our biggest weakness right now,” Gavel said. “We don’t have much experience there, so we’re going to rely on our starters to carry us in the early part of the season.”