Basketball: Inland Empire sophomore is making a name for himself

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For those unfamiliar with Dominique Dunning, be prepared for your first introduction. It’s time that everyone becomes a bit more informed about the improving abilities of the 6-foot-3 sophomore shooting guard, who recently transferred from Corona Santiago to Corona Centennial.

As a freshman, he averaged 10.8 points and 4.8 rebounds per game, not bad numbers for a rookie playing on a talented Sharks team that made a nice little run in the Southern Section playoffs before losing in the Division II-A semifinals to eventual champion Rancho Verde.

And there’s been no slowing him down since. Dunning has opened plenty of eyes during the spring and summer, and though he’s far from a finished product, he still figures to be the marquee name at the Slam Jam Sophomore Showcase on Aug. 17 at Taft High.

‘I have a lot of pride. I want to be known as one of the best players in the 2011 class, so I’m looking forward to this showcase out in the Valley,’’ Dunning said. ‘I can’t wait to go up against some of my peers. A goal of mine is to always do well and this will be a good test for me.’’

According to his father, Alan, Dunning has been contacted by programs in the Big West and Mountain West Conferences. Can’t forget to mention that he’s been invited to the Washington elite camp later this summer and the family has received letters from several Pac-10 schools.

‘I’m getting more and more comfortable with each game out there on the court and I think people are noticing that,’’ Dominique said. ‘I know I have a long way to go, but I’m willing to work hard. I’m learning how to handle more and more things, and that’s going to help me in the long run.’’

-- Sean Ceglinsky