Oxford Academy had established itself as an elite academic institution, but the school is also making strides in athletics as well. This year the Oxford girls basketball team could be ready to make a jump to the next level in league play.
Last year the girl’s team finished 6-18 and in sixth place in the Academy League, but the Patriots have higher ambitions this year.
The Patriots have their sights set on challenging for a league title and the return of several key players and new coaches has the team optimistic about the upcoming season.
Head Coach David Clifton is the school’s long-time athletic director and softball coach. He is assisted by Chris Masuno and trainer Jake Nungaray.
The Patriots return several key players from last year’s squad, including All-Academy League sophomore Sophia Chan.
Other key returners include Ashleigh Perez, Celine Tran, Diana Inguito, Jocelyn Lopez, Nicia Desantos, Serena Ing, and Stephanie Cha, who will add depth to the team.
The team should also get a boost from incoming freshmen Austyn Masuno (6’1’ Center), Mylee Madrazo (5’3” Guard), and Angie Gagnon (5’4” Guard). These newcomers were the nucleus of a squad that dominated the Anahiem Jr. High 8th grade league in 2015 to bring Oxford its first Jr. High championship ever. “All three freshman players should have an impact immediately,” Clifton said.
The Academy League schedule for the Patriots will start on Jan 4, but there are opportunities to see the squad in action before league play begins. Oxford Academy opens play on Nov. 30 vs. Orange High at 3 p.m. in the Oxford Academy Varsity Tournament which runs Monday thru Saturday, Nov. 30 through Dec. 5. There will be 16 teams competing in the tournament including local schools Cypress, Pacifica, and Garden Grove.
There will be four games a day starting at 3 p.m.