The Coral Shores boys basketball team opened the season on Nov. 24 with a victory over Palm Glades Prep, 50-43.
Coral Shores brings a mix of experienced and new players into the season, led by returning all-county guard Jonathan Bradman. He is joined by five other seniors, including co-captains Mario Menendez, Nick Rodriguez and Gio Torres, as well as Ricky Placencia and Angel Gutierrez.
Head coach Jarrod Mandozzi also expects big things from juniors Rualt Maska and Gabe Delgado and newcomer to the Hurricanes program in freshman Isaac Rivera. Each of the three has played an integral role for Coral Shores in the pre-season and home regular season opener.
“Rivera can be a real difference maker for us this season,” Mandozzi said. “He is still a freshman, so there is obviously a learning curve as it’s a big jump from middle school ball to the varsity level, but he doesn’t play like most freshmen and it will help him that he’s able to have a bunch of experienced guys around him.”
“Bradman and Mario Menendez have done a good job of bringing him under their wings to help make his transition easier, but he can play and he’ll really help us this season,” Mandozzi continued. “Delgado and Maska have both had great starts to the season for us. Both are showing a lot more confidence and poise and have clearly taken a natural step forward this season. “
Sophomore Ayshaun Thigpen is another young player that Mandozzi is excited about. “Ayshaun is raw and has a lot of work to do to become the player he can be, but he’s got some skills and is loaded with potential. He’s already made great strides in his development and was a key to the Palm Glades game for us with his ability to control the boards and the middle of the court.”
Rounding out the Canes roster are junior guard George Alvarez III and sophomores Yadier Rosales and Eddy Espenosa, who also got a late start due to his football commitment.
“Basketball is such a long season with a lot of games and I expect our depth to be critical this year, so we need everyone to keep working to be ready when the opportunity comes up,” Mandozzi said.
The Hurricanes are on the road at St. Brendan on Thursday, Dec. 3 and finish the week with games at Hialeah Educational and at home versus Palmer Trinity.
