2024-25 Long Beach City College Basketball Season Preview: Vikings Set Sights on Championship Runs

Men's Basketball: The Vikings enter this season with strong expectations, led by returning standout Kason White, who was recognized as an honorable mention on the South Coast Conference team last season. White contributed solidly with averages of eight points, four rebounds, and an impressive 52% shooting from the field. He's primed to take on a leading role alongside other key returners such as Kane Young, Andrew Argyros, Major Hurley, and Jerome Wilson, all of whom are expected to play pivotal roles.

Recruits are adding fresh firepower to the squad, addressing the team's three-point shooting challenge from last season. Notable additions include Mason Pacheco Robinson, a First Team All-Moore League player from Lakewood High, and Zakai Hunter, a key player from St. Anthony's CIF-SS Division 2AA Championship team. The Vikings also added point guard Lawrence Brown Jr. from Orangewood Academy, who brings notable experience and skill to the backcourt. Sharpshooters James Barker, Coby Seery, David Garcia, and Joseph Madrigal are expected to boost the team's perimeter game, creating a dynamic offense capable of competing at the highest level.

Women's Basketball: The Women's Basketball team returns with a solid foundation, bringing back six players from last season, including sophomore Brillana Boyd, the South Coast Conference South Player of the Year, and a 2nd Team All-State selection. A versatile forward who can play all positions, Boyd has been elected team captain and will undoubtedly be a significant force on both ends of the court. Another key leader is point guard Kimberly Cruz-Martinez, a 1st Team All-Conference player who provides steady control and has also been voted as a team captain. Alahnie Tunu, a 2nd Team All-Conference forward, has shown impressive growth and will add versatility across the floor.

Adding depth to the roster, the team welcomes six promising freshmen. Jasmine Hecht brings long-range shooting, while Kyla Sawall's energy and defensive intensity will impact the guard position. Reniya Walker is set to dominate in the paint with her scoring and enforcing abilities, and 6-3 forward Taylah Paepule is expected to present matchup problems for opposing teams. Guards Yesenia Garcia and Zariha Smith also join the squad, bringing versatility, toughness, and rebounding prowess.

With a focus on building upon last year's successes, the goal for both teams is clear: compete at a high level, strive for conference victories, and aim for a deep run in the postseason. The Vikings are poised to make their mark and push toward the 3C2A State Championships and beyond.

The men's basketball team opens its season on Thursday, Oct. 31, at 4 p.m. at Santa Ana College, while the women's team tips off on Friday, Nov. 1, against San Diego City College in the Mt. SAC Tournament.