Justin-Siena boys continue rebound under Particelli

Head coach Ray Particelli's no-nonsense approach made a big impact in his first season back with Justin-Siena High's boys' basketball program.

The team's record didn't reflect the effect Particelli had on what was a program struggling to win in the Marin County Athletic League. The defense that championships are built upon, however, does.

"We cut 17 points per game off our opponents' scoring average last year," Particelli said. "That's a lot of points. We want to play tough defense all the time. Shots might not fall some nights, but you can always play tough defense."

The Braves continue what is a true rebuilding process under Particelli this season. The Braves have played well in the early season, finishing third in the Stokes Tournament in Kelseyville over the weekend.

The key returning players are senior guard Dustin Mertens and swing man Dominic Hjerpe.

"Justin-Siena might not always have the most talent," Particelli said, "so we have to convince the kids to play together. We're building the program on the idea that they are accountable to one another. We want them to go out and play well for one another. We want them to feel like they don't want to let their teammates down."

Point guard Matty Goetz, actually, holds the key to Braves season. He was inconsistent as a junior, but is more experienced and much improved entering his senior year.

Max Wilcoxsen and third-year varsity guard Joe Rossi have played are playing well for the Braves.

Junior Trey Boles has been the Braves' leading scorer this season. He's a dangerous 3-point shooter.

The Braves are bigger this season than last with 6-foot-5 Eli Granata and 6-foot 5 Zane Purewal.



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