Sports
Chancellors Pride: 5 Unforgettable Athletes From Watsonville High School
From local fields to national fame, these stars got their start in Watsonville.
Sports run deep in Watsonville, and Watsonville High School has long been at the heart of it. It’s no surprise some standout talent once wore the Panther uniform. Today we're celebrating five unforgettable athletes from Chatsworth High School who made a name for themselves well beyond the hometown field.
1. Ken Sears - Former NBA All-Star
Ken Sears attended Watsonville High School before becoming one of the first standout basketball talents from the area. He played college basketball at Santa Clara University, becoming a two-time WCC Player of the Year, an All-American and was later inducted into the athletics Hall of Fame with his jersey retired. Sears went on to the NBA, primarily with the New York Knicks and San Francisco Warriors. Sears was a 2× NBA All-Star and famously became the first basketball player to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated. (Sources: NBA, SCU)
2. Sherman Cocroft - Former NFL Defensive Back
Sherman Cocroft is a former NFL cornerback who graduated from Watsonville High School, where he excelled in football. He went on to play college football at San Jose State University before beginning his NFL career. Cocroft played for a few different organizations during his playing time, earning a reputation as a versatile and dependable defensive back. (Source: NFL)
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3. Adrián Zamora - Former Professional Basketball Player
Adrián Zamora, a Watsonville High School alumnus, made his mark in basketball both in the U.S. and internationally. After high school, he played college basketball at UC Riverside, then embarked on a professional career overseas, including representing Mexico’s national team in international competitions. Known for his size, skill and leadership on the court, Zamora became a source of pride for Watsonville sports fans. (Sources: ESPN, FIBA Basketball)
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4. Charlene Pryer - Former Professional Baseball Player
Charlene Pryer was a pioneering female athlete in baseball who got her start at Watsonville High School. She made history as a player in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) in the 1940s. Pryer’s performance helped elevate women’s professional baseball during its formative years, inspiring future generations of female athletes from Watsonville and beyond. (Sources: AAGPBL)án>
5. Daisy Cornejo - Collegiate Volleyball Player
Daisy Cornejo is the most recent alum on the list, excelling in volleyball. Known for her powerful spikes and strong leadership on the court, Cornejo was a key contributor to her team’s success in local competitions. Her volleyball career isn’t over yet, as she continues her career at Hartnell University. (Sources: Hartnell Panthers)This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile. án>
