The North Salinas High School girls’ basketball program is experiencing a revival under the leadership of new coach Lawrence Raneses. The transition comes after a tumultuous year that saw the unexpected firing of former coach Darren Jackson, who had been instrumental in the program’s past successes. Last season, the Vikings endured a dismal campaign, finishing with just one win amid a staggering 23 losses.
Raneses, who previously served as the junior varsity coach, stepped up to take charge of the varsity team this season. His immediate goal has been to restore a positive culture within the program after last year’s upheaval. “We preach the importance of positivity,” Raneses stated. “Last year had a negative effect on the program. The first thing I had to change was the culture. I had to add some sunshine.”
Despite the challenges, Raneses has swiftly begun to rebuild the team’s morale. The Vikings currently hold a record of 5-2 in the Cypress Division, showing signs of improvement and resilience. Following a 35-29 defeat against Pajaro Valley, Raneses acknowledged the foundation laid by Jackson, stating, “Coach Jackson left a blueprint for success for us to follow.”
Ironically, Jackson is now coaching at Pajaro Valley, where he has also seen his team surpass last season’s win total. Reflecting on the changes, Jackson noted, “Things in life change. Sometimes it hurts you. You have to move on and not hold grudges.” His presence during the recent game brought mixed emotions for players who had previously played under him.
Senior Iliana Perez, who has emerged as a key player for North Salinas, expressed her excitement about reconnecting with Jackson. “I was more excited to see coach Jackson as a person,” she said. “He’s the reason why I’m where I am now. He’s a part of my basketball journey.”
With a total of eight wins so far this season, North Salinas has already doubled its total from the previous two years combined. Raneses, a graduate of North Salinas, emphasized that he is not aiming to replace Jackson but to guide the players effectively. “I’m here for the kids to guide them as best as I can,” he remarked.
Raneses has a background in coaching, having previously led the girls’ team at Alvarez High School from 2003 to 2006. He also served as an assistant coach for the boys’ teams at North Salinas. “When all this happened, I called my assistant Carlos Cano and said we need to help these girls,” he explained.
The transition has not been without its difficulties. Raneses encountered players who were hesitant to join the team due to the previous year’s events. He encouraged them to give the new season a chance, understanding that rebuilding trust would take time. “Change won’t come in a few weeks,” Raneses noted, asking players to evaluate the program after the league began.
Among the returning players, Perez has taken on a leadership role, averaging 15 points per game while also assisting her teammates with medical needs, such as taping their ankles before games. Raneses praised her unselfishness and commitment to the team’s success.
Other seniors, including Ashanti Williams, who averages nearly 10 points per game, have also stepped up to guide their teammates. Raneses highlighted Williams’ strong rebounding skills and her caring nature, recalling an instance where she helped someone in need.
Although the Vikings began the season with a 3-7 record, Raneses viewed the losses as opportunities for growth. He recognized that the team was learning and evolving through these challenges. “We learned a lot from those losses,” he said, citing a particular game against Milpitas that showcased the team’s potential despite a loss.
As North Salinas continues to build momentum, Raneses remains optimistic about the future. The team achieved four consecutive victories to open Cypress Division play, demonstrating significant progress. “I just told the girls we’ll see them again at our place,” he said regarding future matches against strong opponents.
Defensively, players like Jasmine Sanchez have also made an impact, using their speed to disrupt opponents. Raneses, who is deeply connected to the school, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to coach his alma mater. “This is my school,” he said, emphasizing the pride he feels in being back.
Under Raneses’ leadership, the North Salinas girls’ basketball program is not just aiming for wins but is also focused on fostering a renewed sense of community and pride among its players. With each game, they are not just competing but also building a brighter future for the program.
