Men's basketball finding balance in December
The Moorpark College men's basketball team is finding itself just before Christmas time.
New coach, new players, new athletic director - yet the Raiders find themselves 8-8 through 16 games this season, including three wins in the last four outings.
Moorpark started the season 2-6 before winning six of its last eight games. This past week, the Raiders beat LA Trade Tech 109-84 and Santa Ana 80-77 at home.
Three players average double figures in points: Carter Alexander (14.6), Rocco Pompeo (13.5) and Ben Condra (10.0). Deon Francois and Anthony Vespe are each pitching in 8.7 points per game.
Rebounding is the team's biggest challenge. Moorpark is being outrebounded by an average of 44.8 to 30.5 on the glass. Angel Hammer and Condra are the team's top rebounders, averaging just over five a game.
However, the team's outside shooting is a major plus, making 3-pointers at a 35.5% clip this season. The Raiders also make 72.5% of its free throws as a team, an impressive mark.
Moorpark will start Western State Conference play against Allan Hancock on Jan. 5 on the road at 5 p.m. before coming back home to host LA Pierce in its conference home opener on Jan. 8. That game will tip at 1 p.m.