Story by: Maryam Hawari, Staff Writer
Photo by: Angel Martinez, Sports Editor
The Cypress College Chargers have bounced back from a challenging start to the season with two dominant victories, reaffirming their playoff hopes. After a difficult stretch that threatened to derail their campaign, the Chargers secured impressive wins over Santiago Canyon and Orange Coast in early February.
On Wednesday, Feb. 4, Cypress defeated Santiago Canyon 84-64, followed by a 90-67 triumph over Orange Coast two days later. Head coach Andrew Alhadeff attributed the team’s resurgence to a renewed focus on trust and pace after a rough patch where the Chargers struggled to stay competitive. “We started the season 9-3, but we hit a stretch where we stopped believing in each other,” Alhadeff explained. “The ball wasn’t moving around the way we needed it to, and we were no longer playing as a team.”
Upon reviewing live film, Alhadeff saw that the team’s pace needed improvement. By emphasizing faster play and encouraging quicker ball movement, the Chargers were able to restore their chemistry and build trust on the court. “We need to play as a team, not as individuals,” Alhadeff said. “Without that, it’s impossible to succeed.”
The team’s sophomore leadership has been key in the turnaround. Forward Michael Wright, who leads the team with 17 points and 9 rebounds per game, has been a consistent force.
Alongside him, point guards Jack Rivera and Zack Mortiz have excelled in the perimeter game, while Wright and Mortiz have bolstered the team’s defense. Alhadeff noted that the Chargers’ sophomores have benefited from the increased game experience, adjusting their play and improving in the second half of the season. Still, Alhadeff pointed out that consistency remains a key challenge, especially as the team transitions to playoff basketball.
“In high school, players were often the best on their teams, and coaches weren’t holding them accountable for every single moment,” Alhadeff said. “Now, they need to work until exhaustion to play at this level.”
As the team looks ahead to the Southern California Regional, Alhadeff is focusing on rebounding and defense as keys to success. “Once we get into playoff basketball, the game slows down,” he said. “It becomes more physical, and we need to focus on defensive rebounding and getting back on offense quickly.”The Chargers will face Allan Hancock on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, marking their first game in the Southern California Regional playoffs. The game will be critical as Cypress aims to build momentum heading into the postseason.
