SANTA ROSA — Each year the expectations for the Santa Rosa Warriors basketball program are high. This year is no different as the Warriors won another district and bi-district title.
The 2017 state semifinalists will now look to keep their playoff run going when they face Goliad tonight in a Class 3A area-round contest. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. at Corpus Christi Ray High School.
Senior point guard AB Lozoya has been a reliable force for the Warriors this season and is one of five senior starters.
“The playoffs are my favorite part of the season,” Lozoya said. “But when you get to play with your teammates and coaches it makes it extra special. Coach does a great job with us and he makes it fun. I’m always ready for the playoffs and I’m glad we’re still here playing.”
Goliad is coming off a 56-50 win against Hebbronville earlier this week. Tonight’s game looks to be a tough one for the Warriors, but head coach Johnny Cipriano said he has his squad ready.
“We’re going to go out there and do what we do,” Cipriano said. “We will give it our best effort regardless of what they’re (Goliad) doing. I thought our kids handled the moment well in our first playoff game. We have played tough opponents all throughout our non-district schedule to prepare our kids for the playoffs, so seeing them being able to handle the moment is something I like to see.”
Senior shooting guard Jonah Agadl has also been a big part of a few playoff runs over the past few years and, like Lozoya, has big-game experience.
“Over my four years, it has been a great ride,” Agadl said. “The last few years have been a great learning experience for me as a player. Coach does a great job on preparing us. Throughout the year we have been stressing the defensive side of the ball because our offense has always been there.”
Fellow shooting guard Jay Guerra is another senior who is eager to keep the Warriors’ season alive. Guerra has been on the varsity squad since his sophomore year and will team up with Agadl to lead the Warriors’ offense against Goliad.
“It’s win or go home,” Guerra said. “It’s time for us to ball out and play our best basketball. We seniors have played in plenty of big games, so it helps with our confidence. We know we can compete against teams so long as we listen to coach and execute the game plan he gives us. Being a part of this program is special. I have been a part of three district titles and to be a part of the 14th straight district title is something special.”
