2002 PREVIEW BOYS' BASKETBALL: MAKING THE ADJUSTMENT PARACLETE WILL COUNT ON QUICKNESS.

Byline: Gideon Rubin Staff Writer

LANCASTER - Never mind that Paraclete graduated its leading scorer and two of its biggest players from last year didn't go out for the team.

The Paraclete High boys' basketball team might not have the size - its tallest starters are 6-foot-2 - or as many scoring threats as last season, but second-year coach J.R. Chatman isn't concerned.

``I think we're better this year,'' Chatman said. ``The unity on this team is much better than last year's team. They've made a lot of improvements in that, and it shows. Their camaraderie and their cohesiveness on and off the floor has made a big difference.''

That was apparent in an impressive 60-56 victory over Rosamond on Dec. 17 that has Chatman optimistic.

With nine newcomers, it might take time for the Spirits to reach their potential. Paraclete (3-6) should improve as it learns to use its speed and quickness to overcome lack of size.

``Those are our strengths, so we have to make up for (lack of height) with that,'' senior forward Matt Marquez said.

To counter their size disadvantage, the Spirits will implement relentless defensive pressure they think will produce turnovers that lead to easy baskets. Having a roster 13 players deep should help.

Offensively, Chatman said the plan is to turn games into track meets and attack the basket, where they hope to draw fouls.

``Getting to the free-throw line is the key,'' Chatman said.

The Spirits are led by Marquez (6-2), a third-year varsity player averaging 24 points a game.

Other key returnees include point guard Phil Vargas and shooting guard Tommy Caton (both seniors), and junior guard Marquis Chapman.

Vargas is averaging eight points and eight assists. Caton, who played quarterback, is recovering from a toe injury and won't join the team until next week.

Newcomers Nate Bailey, a sophomore guard, and Adam Muth, a junior forward, are among the team's best shooters.

Other first-year varsity players who could make an impact include Rusty Chaplin, a 6-4 junior forward; sophomore guard/forward Brandon Evans and junior forwards Aaron Merlo and Drew Siegwart.

After struggling through a 3-10 start last year, the Spirits went 6-4 in Alpha League play, finishing second.

The Alpha League has a new look this season. Gone are league champion Kilpatrick of Malibu and Marshall of Pasadena. L.A. Baptist of North Hills, Pacific Hills of West Hollywood and Brentwood have been added.

And even if the Spirits aren't the biggest team, they figure to be competitive.

``What we lost in size, we make up for in quickness and cohesiveness on the floor,'' Chatman said. ``It's on another level from last year, and when you have good communication and a group that works well together, you can overcome that,'' Chatman said. ``There's no substitute for size, but we can make up for it with our quickness and our (pressure) defense.''

Marquez said: ``It's hard for us, but we just have to outplay the other teams. We have to execute fundamentals and box out like coach says, and we have to play with more heart.''

CAPTION(S):

photo

Photo:

Mark Marquez and Paraclete will play an up-tempo style this year, a departure from the norm.

Jeff Goldwater/Staff Photographer