Former assistant basketball coach Adam Eskridge was elevated to head coach this week after Jon Chapman, who piloted the varsity the past decade, returned to his former role as Culver City High School Assistant Principal.
“I’m ecstatic. I’ve been working for this position in my three years as freshman and four years as junior varsity coach. I am excited for the opportunity,” said Eskridge.
Eskridge said he will emphasize defense and strength training to his young charges.
“Adam prepared well for this role. It’s a great opportunity for him,” said Centaur athletic director Tom Salter.
David Gordon, who guided Dorsey High School to several league titles, remains as an assistant coach.
“Dave is a valuable part of what we’ve done. His hustle points and other statistics are a valued asset. He has a wealth of knowledge, having coached for a long time,” said Eskridge.
The Culver City High School boys basketball team played a unique style with moderate success this summer of two minute shifts with five substitutes entering the game at a time. That system allowed the Centaurs to have enough rest to play intense defense, fast break, and face a fatigued opponent in the fourth quarter.
That style of play may help Culver City, which will be quick, deep, and short-sized.
The 23-man squad lost six of its first nine games, and finished with four wins in the last five games.
Six players from last year’s varsity team participated in the summer program absent graduating seniors Aamahd Walker and Keilan Horton, the dynamic duo that scored most of the Centaur points last season. The six returners are Julius Wilson, J.R. Montgomery, Armani Nicolis, Sal De Leon, Larryn Zeigler and Nick Hale.
Ex-junior varsity players are Gabe Solache, Cameron Robinson, Chris Edwards, Wes Dixon, Robel Samson, Solomon Mesay, Kevin Yoon, Owen Furata, Micah Tamura, Arman Appleby and Nathan Mosher.
