The Bears’ basketball program got off to quite a slow start this season due to complications related to COVID-19. That however is not stopping Dominique Richardson, the newly assigned West Oso High School head boys basketball coach.

Richardson believes he has a strong team this year considering that six players are returning from last year’s playoff team.  Even more encouraging is five of those individuals were starters.  These returners, coupled with some new additions, give Richardson complete confidence in his team.

“This  team’s strengths include speed and team chemistry,” said Richardson.

The starting five players to watch this season are: AJ Lopez, junior,  Seddiq Sharif, junior, Zephaniah Rankin, junior, Carlos Terrazas, junior, and Rayshawn Nickles, junior.   This nucleus has been together since junior high and beyond.

Richardson has also invested in some new talent which includes Brandon Simmons, junior, Gerrell Portlock, junior, and Joshua Williams, freshman.  Once these returners and new players develop chemistry, Richardson thinks the Bears can beat last year’s 16-19 team record and place in the top 3 in district this season.

“If we defend and compete, we should have great success in district play this season,” said Richardson.