OEC Men's Basketball Season Set for Wild Ride as Conference Play Kicks Off

OEC Men's Basketball Season Set for Wild Ride as Conference Play Kicks Off
December 17, 2024

The Orange Empire Conference (OEC) men's basketball season is shaping up to be a thrilling ride, with several teams coming into conference play with strong records and high expectations. The action has already kicked off with Riverside City College picking up a big win over Orange Coast College, and with a mix of talented returning players and standout freshmen, the conference is primed for an exciting race.

Highlights of the OEC Teams:

  • No. 2 Fullerton (11-1): Riding a nine-game win streak, Fullerton has been dominant, with big wins over top teams like No. 6 San Bernardino and No. 9 Modesto. Freshman Jaqari Miles, averaging 15.2 points per game, is leading the charge.
  • No. 11 Santiago Canyon (10-3): The Hawks have faced stiff competition and emerged victorious, including wins over No. 13 Chabot and No. 20 MiraCosta. Sophomore Tony Colley, with 17.4 points per game, and freshman EJ Bryson, averaging 15.7 points per game, have been standouts.
  • No. 17 Riverside (9-5): After beating Orange Coast by 22 points in their conference opener, Riverside looks strong. Freshman Christian Warren (18.6 points per game) and sophomore Andre Skelin (15.6 points per game) are key players for the Tigers.
  • No. 28 Irvine Valley (8-5): Despite recent struggles, Irvine Valley remains a top-30 team. Freshman Matt Mowers leads the offense with 12.3 points per game, and sophomore Josiah Reed is dominating the boards with 6.2 rebounds per game.
  • Cypress (10-3): With a five-game winning streak to close out their non-conference schedule, Cypress is primed for a breakout conference run. Freshman Michael Wright (14.2 points and 6.7 rebounds per game) and sophomore Peyton Guerrero (11.2 points per game) have been solid contributors.
  • Santa Ana (10-3): The Dons have been one of the hottest teams in the OEC, winning seven straight games before entering conference play. Sophomore Kamaury Washington (15 points per game) is leading the offense, while Mac West (14.8 points per game) is another key player to watch.
  • Saddleback (6-6): While the Bobcats have had their ups and downs, they are coming into conference play with two straight wins. Sophomore Charlie Stallings (16 points and 7.9 rebounds per game) has been the standout player for Saddleback.
  • Orange Coast (4-8): After a tough start to the season, Orange Coast will look to bounce back. Sophomore Ronnie Davis (21.6 points per game) has been the team's top scorer, with impressive high-scoring performances already on the books.

Upcoming Matchups (Wednesday, December 18):

  • Orange Coast vs. Saddleback – 5 PM
  • No. 17 Riverside vs. Santa Ana – 5 PM
  • Cypress vs. No. 11 Santiago Canyon – 5 PM
  • No. 28 Irvine Valley vs. No. 2 Fullerton – 6 PM

(Release by Nicho DellaValle, Santiago Canyon)