2003 PREVIEW: BOYS' BASKETBALL: SCHOCK, WELLS HAVE SIMI ON RISE TWO SENIORS' IMPACT IS BEING FELT.

Byline: Vincent Bonsignore Staff Writer

When things became a little too overwhelming for Simi Valley High basketball standouts John Schock and Mark Wells two years ago as sophomores, when the varsity game came a bit too fast or the shots didn't fall as frequently as they hoped, Pioneers coach Christian Aurand had familiar words of wisdom.

``Just consider this money in the bank,'' Aurand said, reflecting on the early stage of Schock and Wells' development. ``What you're going through right now will pay off in a big way down the line.''

Two years later, Schock and Wells can tap into a deep savings account that continues to pile up interest. The two standouts, now all grown up as seniors, are the cornerstones for a talented Simi Valley team expected to contend for the Marmonte League championship.

The Pioneers (9-2) currently are playing in the prestigious Torrey Pines tournament, and Schock and Wells, both three-year starters, have continued to impress with their well-rounded games.

Schock, a 6-foot-4 forward, is an intense competitor with an uncanny ability to rebound on both ends of the floor, using his nose for the ball and desire to continually outrebound bigger opponents.

At the recent Simi Valley tournament, he scored 19 points and grabbed 20 rebounds against Ventura.

``It was one of the all-time rebounding performances we've ever had,'' Aurand said. ``It was an unbelievable performance. He brings so much fire and energy.''

Wells, a 6-3 guard, can score in a variety of ways, whether it's from the outside with his long-range shooting touch or using his footwork and strength to post up defenders in the paint.

``He's the kind of guy who can do it all,'' Aurand said. ``He can pass, shoot, dribble. He's strong, he's got good size. He is very, very versatile.''

Wells and Schock have started 53 consecutive games since earning starting jobs as sophomores. Aurand didn't award them their spots on potential; they earned it with their play.

``It was all about production and performance,'' Aurand remembered. ``Sometimes it's just the way things shuffle out, but in their case, it was what they were doing on a day-in-and-day-out basis. The fact is, they were outplaying everyone else.''

Both players gave Aurand a peek of things to come with key early performances that season. Wells hit a game-winning shot and Schock earned all-tournament honors in the Crescenta Valley tournament.

``A door opened for them and they both stepped right though,'' Aurand said.

Now they lead a team with legitimate championship hopes. Playing in the Marmonte League East along with Calabasas, Royal and Agoura, the Pioneers will lean on their two stars but also count on big performances from key role players.

Matt Voorhees is a 6-8 forward who adds size and toughness, and 6-5 Mike Rodgers is developing at forward. Shane Shoemaker has opened eyes with some early-season performances, as well.

Simi Valley should receive a lift from some talented players off a 21-4 junior varsity team, and with Wells and Schock leading the way, good things are in store.

``It will be an interesting year, although there is no doubt the league is well balanced with some good quality teams. It's going to be a dogfight.''

AT A GLANCE

Team: Simi Valley boys' basketball

Coach: Christian Aurand

Last year's record: 16-9, 7-4

Top returners: G John Schock, Sr.; G Mark Wells, Sr.

Top newcomers: F Mike Rodgers, Jr.; G Lorne Bell, Soph.; F Matt Vorehees, Jr.; G Shane Shoemaker, Jr.

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AT A GLANCE (see text)