Graduation took a heavy toll on California

By DEAN DELLAMALVA JR.
MVI Sports
High school teams, no matter what the sport, have the challenge of replacing players year in and year out. This makes coaching a lot harder, especially when the turnover includes some very talented players.
The California boys team will have to find a way to replace 1,277-point scorer Malik Ramsey. The second team all-state selection averaged 22.5 points and eight boards a game last season for the Trojans (12-10, 6-6 in Section 2-2A).
However, don’t expect Cal to dwell on the past.
“It is tough to reflect on the past because we as a whole are always trying to look ahead and grow as a team,” coach Aaron Balla said.
Also lost to graduation were Cochise Ryan (7.5 ppg) and Phil Stewart (3.1 ppg). Replacing the scoring will be a challenge, but Balla is ready for it.
“The plan will always be to control the ball and create with our offense,” he said. “(Ramsey’s) points held us in those close games, but we have always had others who can score and shown a glimpse last season who will contribute this year.”
Balla will rely on three returning seniors who were key supporting cast members last season: Nathan O’Savage (10 ppg), Payton Conte (8.4 ppg) and Kwondre Porter (5.7 ppg).
The Trojans have made the playoffs in 11 consecutive seasons, including the last two years under Balla. Last year, California fell in the WPIAL first round to Shenango, 71-51.
“Expectations are for these young gentlemen to be able to finish out their senior season healthy and successful, as most want,” Balla said. “But I have been with this crew from my start and it has been a great experience to watch them grow and mature on the court. We are hoping to continue the education of the sport and the foundation we have set.”

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