UPDATE: The Valencia boys’ basketball team has kicked off the season with a thrilling streak, securing three consecutive victories at the Heritage Christian tournament. Under the leadership of head coach Greg Fontenette, the Vikings triumphed over Heritage Christian, Calabasas, and Agoura, showcasing their determination and skill.
In their latest game, Valencia edged out the Calabasas Coyotes with an impressive score of 70-65 on November 17, 2023, at Heritage Christian High School. Despite facing challenges early in the season, Fontenette believes his team is progressing well. “The Heritage win really gave us some momentum going into that Calabasas game,” he stated.
The Vikings displayed remarkable resilience, with key players stepping up even when their main scorers, Noah Trevino and Issac Michel-Zavala, struggled offensively. Trevino’s aggressive play enabled him to set up Romel McCoy for a game-winning shot against Heritage Christian, securing a 63-53 victory over Agoura in their most recent matchup.
Fontenette emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced focus, stating, “We need to take everything, like one game at a time.” The team’s strategy is built on a solid defensive foundation, which has kept them competitive even during tough moments.
The Vikings’ roster is predominantly composed of juniors, with only one senior, making their recent success even more significant. Fontenette expressed confidence in the potential of his young team, stating, “If you want to get to that level, don’t you think you need to play against that level?”
Looking ahead, Valencia faces challenging opponents like Chaminade and Taft, both strong contenders from last year’s playoffs. Fontenette aims to prepare his team for the demanding Foothill League ahead, which he considers one of the best public-school basketball leagues in Southern California.
As the team continues to build momentum, Fontenette remains optimistic, saying, “If we are stacking up good days, we’re probably going to have a good season.” The Vikings are set for another tournament game against the Pilibos Eagles soon, adding to the excitement surrounding their promising start.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Valencia Vikings aim to maintain their winning streak and prepare for a competitive season ahead!
