SAN DIEGO, CA (12/18/2024) -- As the PCAC men's basketball season tips off, the competition is as intense as ever. MiraCosta College leads the standings after an impressive non-conference run, while perennial favorite San Diego City College looks to reclaim its crown. Here's a complete preview, including team strengths, key players, and storylines to watch.

Team-by-Team Breakdown

MiraCosta College (7-3 Overall)

The Spartans lead the PCAC standings with a well-rounded game plan. Ramel Bethea dominates the boards with 9.6 rebounds per game and provides consistent scoring inside. Terrion Woodard adds defensive strength with his 7.5 rebounds and six blocks, while Naby Diaw's scoring efficiency (44.3% from the field) rounds out their balanced attack. MiraCosta averages a +7.1 scoring margin, making them a top contender​.

San Diego City College (8-4 Overall)

The Knights boast a rich history of success and enter conference play ready to reclaim dominance. Logan Huston leads the team with 15.1 points per game and is a versatile contributor on both ends. Brandon Bento-Jackson adds a sharpshooting presence, hitting 32.9% of his three-point attempts. With a defense that forces nearly 10 steals per game, San Diego City remains a dangerous team to beat​.

Palomar College (6-5 Overall)

Palomar features a potent offense, averaging 76.5 points per game. Isaiah Pomare is a standout, averaging 17.3 points and 11.3 rebounds per game, often dominating the paint. Max Zylicz brings a strong outside presence, shooting 41.6% from beyond the arc. With their ability to stretch defenses and control the glass, Palomar will be a serious threat​.

Southwestern College (5-5 Overall)

Southwestern's balanced attack averages 74.9 points per game. Ayden Lockett leads the team with 18.4 points per game and is a consistent playmaker. Baron Noble complements him with his sharpshooting (42.1% from three). The team's ability to dominate transition play makes them a potential dark horse​.

Cuyamaca College (5-4 Overall)

Led by Nico Cervantes, who averages 14.3 points per game and shoots nearly 90% from the free-throw line, Cuyamaca brings a high-energy style. Jamier Sykes adds a strong two-way presence with his versatility. If the Coyotes can improve their rebounding, they could contend in the conference​.

San Diego Mesa College (4-5 Overall)

The Olympians rely on the inside presence of Chanel Mballa, who averages 9.2 rebounds per game and shoots an efficient 57.5% from the field. Jaydon Hall provides perimeter scoring, connecting on 44.4% of his three-point attempts. Mesa will need consistency from its role players to climb the standings​.

San Diego Miramar College (4-6 Overall)

Miramar's turnover margin (+5.5) has been a bright spot in a challenging season. Ah-Zion Applewhaite leads the team in rebounding (5.3 per game), while Drew Pierce adds three-point shooting, hitting 45% from deep. The Jets will rely on strong guard play to remain competitive​.

Imperial Valley College (2-8 Overall)

Imperial Valley has struggled this season, with a -29 scoring margin. However, Aaron Tabarez has been a consistent performer, averaging 15.6 points and 5.2 assists per game. Arturo Tabarez adds secondary scoring with 11.4 points per game. Improving on the boards will be key for their success​.

Grossmont College (0-10 Overall)

Grossmont has yet to secure a win, but Lamont Wilkerson has been a standout with 17.3 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. Zeid Salem leads the team in blocks and rebounding (5.6 per game). Grossmont must cut down on turnovers (18.5 per game) to compete​.

Key Storylines and Matchups

• The Favorites: MiraCosta College's balanced attack and San Diego City's defensive prowess set up a clash of styles. Their matchups could decide the conference crown.
• Underdogs on the Rise: Teams like Southwestern and Palomar, with their scoring depth, have the tools to challenge for the title.
• Players to Watch:
  • Ramel Bethea (MiraCosta): Dominates inside with his rebounding and scoring.
  • Logan Huston (San Diego City): A versatile scorer and defensive presence.
  • Isaiah Pomare (Palomar): Consistently produces double-doubles with his physical play.
  • Ayden Lockett (Southwestern): A dynamic scorer who can take over games.
• Turnover Battles: Miramar's ability to capitalize on turnovers (+5.5 margin) and MiraCosta's efficiency in transition will be key in close games.

What to Expect

The PCAC race is wide open, with each team bringing unique strengths and standout players. Fans can expect thrilling basketball, tight matchups, and breakout performances as teams vie for conference supremacy.