PREP BASKETBALL ‘92-’93 / PRIVATE SCHOOLS

HUNT. BEACH CLAREMONT 1991-92 RECORDS OVERALL: 0-12 LEAGUE: 0-10 COACH: RECORD AT SCHOOL Mike Smith: 0-12

RETURNING STARTERS YR. HGT. P Sherlyn Castillo Jr. 5-5 P

TOP RETURNERS: None

TOP NEWCOMERS YR. HGT. P Kristina Gentry Jr. 5-6 G Stacy Johnson Fr. 5-9 F Chevien Pahpildari So. 5-7 F Janette Sancedo Jr. 5-5 G

OUTLOOK A year ago, Smith and the Cougars struggled through a winless season with a team that totaled only six players by season’s end. So with 11 players out for this year’s team, Smith figured things looked brighter for the Patriots in the Express League. Wrong. Because of injuries, illnesses and a car accident, the Cougars have spent the early season with only six healthy players. “Just like last year,” Smith said. “It’s been hard to practice.” Even when healthy, Smith doesn’t expect big things from the Cougars, not with only one player, Castillo, having basketball experience. In fact, Smith’s current goal is none too lofty. “Right now, I’m happy if we score in double digits,” Smith said. “It’s going to be a long season for us. We have to take it slow. But we’ll get better.” Leading the Cougars’ attack will be Gentry, the point guard. Not only is she the team’s best shooter and ballhandler; Smith said she is the best rebounder, too. “She’s a good team leader,” Smith said. Still, Smith figures points--and victories--will be very tough to come by. “I’m working very, very basics at the time, “ he said.